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Of the more than 5,000 festivals celebrated in Mexico, perhaps the most famous is Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). However, this is just one of countless unique festivals that blend indigenous beliefs with Catholic culture. Some festivals celebrate life, others commemorate the deceased; some honor God, and even certain professions. In Mexico, even quinceañera – the coming-of-age ceremony for 15-year-old girls – can turn an entire town into a vibrant stage. If you're ready to pack your bags, here are some festivals that will make you want to get up and go immediately.
1. Day of the Dead in Oaxaca de Juárez
In the weeks leading up to the Day of the Dead (November 1-2), the city of Oaxaca is filled with the orange hues of marigolds – a flower traditionally believed to guide spirits back to the mortal world. The streets are bustling with street parties, elaborately decorated ofrenda altars, faces painted to resemble skulls, and parades featuring giant puppets.
Tourists can immerse themselves in the festival's customs by placing photos of deceased loved ones on a communal ofrenda, along with a favorite food or drink. For a more mystical and spiritual experience, you can visit the Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán Cemetery, about 30 minutes from downtown Oaxaca, where thousands of candles are lit at night, creating a sacred atmosphere.
2. Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe - Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Morelia
Every year on December 12th, Mexico celebrates the festival honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe, the country's patron saint. The image of Our Lady appearing to Juan Diego, the first indigenous Latin American to be canonized, has become a symbol of the Catholic faith in Mexico.
Processions of the Virgin Mary statue are held throughout the country with colorful garlands, while dancers wearing feathered headdresses perform the traditional Matachines dance. Among the venues, the city of Morelia in the canton of Michoacán stands out with its large-scale procession attracting around 150,000 people to the Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe shrine, whose interior is lavishly decorated with gold.
3. Guelaguetza - Indigenous cultural festival in Oaxaca de Juárez
Guelaguetza, meaning "offering," has a history of over 3,000 years, originating from a ritual worshipping the agricultural goddess of the Zapotec people. Today, the festival has become an occasion to celebrate the culture of the indigenous peoples of Oaxaca.
On the last two Mondays of July, 16 indigenous groups in Oaxaca will parade through the streets, performing traditional dances and music. The highlight of the event is the performances at the open-air theater on Cerro del Fortín hill, where tickets are required to attend. Nevertheless, the festive atmosphere permeates the entire city, creating a vibrant cultural ambiance.
4. Fiesta Grande de Chiapa - Traditional festival in Chiapa de Corzo
Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Fiesta Grande festival takes place annually in January in the Chiapas highlands, honoring three Catholic saints: Saint Anthony Abbot, Lord Esquipulas, and Saint Sebastian.
A highlight of this festival is the parachico dance – dancers wearing intricately carved wooden masks and vibrant traditional costumes, performing amidst the crowd. Each region has its own unique style of dress, from the colorful serape jackets of men to the delicately embroidered skirts of women. To the rhythmic beat of drums and the joyful sounds of maraca, the procession moves toward the Santo Domingo de Guzmán church to attend the solemn service.
5. Mazatlán Carnival - Mazatlán Carnival
The Carnival in Mazatlán, a beautiful city on the Pacific coast, takes place in the days leading up to Lent and has similar origins to famous festivals in Brazil and the Caribbean. Today, it is a spectacular event brimming with color and music, attracting large numbers of tourists and locals alike.
The parade floats are brightly lit, dancers in sparkling bikinis and feathered hats dance energetically to lively music all night long. During the day, the festive atmosphere softens, with fair games, fun parades, and the coronation of the King and Queen of Carnaval – a perfect time for family bonding.
6. Festival Internacional Cervantino - Art Festival in Guanajuato
Unlike festivals with religious overtones, the Internacional Cervantino Festival is the largest Spanish-language arts event, taking place annually in the autumn in the city of Guanajuato.
Named after Miguel de Cervantes, the author of the novel Don Quixote, the festival includes a variety of artistic activities such as folk ballet at Plaza de la Paz, concerts in ancient Baroque churches, and pop-up nightclubs in colonial-era underground chambers. It's a must-see destination for anyone who loves Spanish art and culture.
Whether you love traditional ceremonies, vibrant carnivals, or unique arts events, Mexico has something for you. So why not find the nearest upcoming holiday and start planning now!
