Mexico’s rich culture is colorful, diverse, and steeped in history. While traveling through Mexico can immerse you in the food, music, and personality of the culture, there’s no better way to truly experience al of that with locals than by visiting the numerous festivals that take place all over the country.
Dia de los Muertos – Cancun – November
National Geographic captured this celebration so beautifully in their Dia de los Muertos gallery. The Mexican people take pride in how they honor their departed family members. Every November 1 and 2, they celebrate the passing of their family members knowing their spirits are still very much alive and well. They honor the dead with lively festivals, food, and drinks, all of which are devoid of any somberness or traditional black funeral garb.
The cemeteries are vibrant with color as each grave-site is lovingly decorated by devoted family members. Families will gather around the graves with specially prepared meals and exchange memories and stories about their loved ones. If you want to feel like you’re in the heart of the holiday, visit the colonial town of Patzcuaro which is known for its Day of the Dead celebrations.
Fiesta de Santa Cecelia – Mexico City – November
Mexico City comes alive at the end of November when more than 500 musicians sing a birthday song to the patroness of mariachis (musicians). It’s celebrated traditionally in the Catholic church on November 22. Plaza Garibaldi hosts the open air party with a variety of musicians that play through the night. Visitors will enjoy drink and food as they listen to regional music from all over Mexico.
Carnaval in Veracruz – Veracruz – March
If you love flashy parades, exotic dances, cultural music, and parties that last nine days, then pack your bags and head to the mountainous town of Veracruz near the Gulf of Mexico in March. The celebration begins with the “burning of the bad mood” on the first night in the main town square. During the ritual, various readings are read to the gathered crowds before the party starts. Two local children are given the title of the King of Joy and the Queen of the Carnival and they’re paraded around the square like true royalty.
There are a total of six parades filled with raucous laughter and rolling musical accompaniments. No matter where you go, whether you’re strolling along Manuel Avila Camacho Boulevard or tucked away on the side streets, you’ll be serenaded by the gentle rhythms of marimbas, harps, and guitars. Swaying to the music wherever you’re at isn’t unheard of, so don’t be opposed to impromptu dance parties if you’re staying in the city limits of Veracruz.
Fiestas de Octubre – Jalisco – October
“October’s Festivities” take place over the month of October starting the first Friday in October and feature a variety of festive activities. Whether you like dancing, theater, or art, you’ll find cultural variations of this for the entire festival. It was founded in 1965 and since 1991 has revolved around an annual theme that’s different every year.
Jalisco hosts this incredible festival and when locals say it takes place over the entire city, they aren’t kidding. Activities occur in a variety of locations all over town and as the month progresses, the artistic displays change. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine and take back a suitcase full of handcrafted trinkets from one of many street vendors as you tour the festivities.
Mexico loves to have a good time, and they prove this with their annual and regional festivals. If you’re looking to get inundated with Mexican culture, then visiting this country during one of these festivals will provide you with the vacation of a lifetime.
