Of the more than 5,000 festivals celebrated in Mexico, the most famous is probably Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). However, it is just one of countless unique festivals that blend indigenous beliefs with Catholic culture. Some festivals celebrate life, others commemorate the dead; some celebrate God, even certain professions. In Mexico, even a quinceañera – a coming-of-age ceremony for 15-year-old girls – can turn an entire town into a dazzling stage. If you’re ready to pack your bags, here are the festivals that will have you up and going immediately.
1. Día de los Muertos - Day of the Dead in Oaxaca de Juárez
In the weeks leading up to Day of the Dead (November 1-2), the city of Oaxaca is awash with orange marigolds, flowers that legend has it are capable of guiding souls back to earth. The streets are filled with street parties, ornate ofrendas, faces dressed as skulls, and parades with giant puppets.
Tourists can join in the festivities by placing photos of deceased loved ones in the communal ofrenda, along with their favorite food or drink. For a more mystical experience, 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 December 12, Mexico celebrates a festival honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe, the country's patron saint. The image of the Virgin Mary 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 are held everywhere, with colorful wreaths, while dancers in feathered headdresses perform the traditional Matachines dance. Among the venues, the city of Morelia in the state of Michoacán stands out with a large-scale procession that attracts around 150,000 people to the shrine of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, whose interior is lavishly decorated with gold.
3. Guelaguetza - Indigenous Cultural Festival in Oaxaca de Juárez
Guelaguetza, which means “offering,” has a history of more than 3,000 years, originating from a Zapotec ritual to worship the goddess of agriculture. Today, the festival has become a celebration of the culture of Oaxaca’s indigenous peoples.
On the last two Mondays of July, 16 indigenous groups in Oaxaca parade through the streets, performing traditional dances and music. The highlight of the event is the performances at the outdoor theater on Cerro del Fortín hill, which requires a ticket to enter. However, the festival atmosphere also spreads throughout the city, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
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 every January in the Chiapas highlands, honoring three Catholic saints: St. Anthony Abbot, Lord Esquipulas and St. Sebastian.
The highlight of the festival is the parachico dance – dancers wearing elaborately carved wooden masks and colorful traditional costumes, dance among the crowds. Each region has its own style of costume, from the colorful serapes of the men to the delicately embroidered dresses of the women. To the pounding of drums and the joyful sounds of maracas, the procession heads to the Santo Domingo de Guzmán church for a solemn mass.
5. Carnaval de Mazatlán - Carnival in Mazatlán
Carnaval in Mazatlán, a beautiful Pacific coast city, takes place in the days before Lent and has similar origins to the famous carnivals in Brazil and the Caribbean. Today, it is a huge event filled with color and music, attracting crowds of tourists and locals.
The floats are brightly lit, dancers in sparkling bikinis and feathered headdresses dance to the music all night long. During the day, the festivities are more relaxed, with fairground games, fun parades and the coronation of the Carnaval King and Queen - a great time for family bonding.
6. Festival Internacional Cervantino - Art Festival in Guanajuato
Unlike other religious festivals, the Festival Internacional Cervantino is the largest Spanish-language arts event, taking place every fall in the city of Guanajuato.
Named after Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, the festival includes a wide range of artistic activities such as folk ballets in Plaza de la Paz, concerts in ancient Baroque churches, and pop-up nightclubs in colonial-era bunkers. This is a must-see destination for those who love Spanish art and culture.
Whether you love traditional ceremonies, vibrant carnivals or unique art events, Mexico has a festival for you. Find the nearest holiday and start planning now!
