The essential traditional celebrations
Mexico: The magic of traditional celebrations
THE Mexico, a land of contrast where each festivity is an explosion of colors and traditions, offers a cultural kaleidoscope of infinite richness. From the famous ceremony of Dia de los Muertos at the breathtaking festival of Guelaguetza, the country invites you to a unique festive trip.
The spiritual Dia de los Muertos
Listed by UNESCO as an intangible heritage of humanity, the Dia de los Muertos is undoubtedly one of Mexico’s most iconic traditions. During this celebration, Mexican families honor their deceased in an atmosphere that is both melancholy and festive. The altars are overflowing with colorful offerings, cempasúchil (marigold flowers), photos and candles inviting an intimate dialogue between life and death. In 2015, the cultural influence of this tradition even inspired the creation of a spectacular parade in the Mexican capital, reminiscent of scenes from the film Spectrum.
La Guelaguetza, cultural jewel of Oaxaca
When we talk about festivities in Mexico, it is impossible to hide the Guelaguetza. This celebration of pre-Hispanic origin, held in the state of Oaxaca, is an annual meeting where diverse local cultures come together to share dances, music, traditional clothing and gastronomy. We are witnessing a magical union creating an unforgettable patchwork that reflects the cultural diversity of Mexico.
Mexican Christmas, a multi-faceted celebration
Mexican Christmas, or Christmas, offers a different face to European winter festivities. The houses are decorated with piñatas and light, and typical dishes such as tamales or the navideño ponche perfume the air. The processions, called Las Posadas, remember the journey of Mary and Joseph and infuse the streets with a contemplative and joyful atmosphere. La Nochebuena, Christmas Eve, is particularly celebrated with a unique blend of rituals from pre-Columbian and colonial times.
Guadalajara, capital of Jalisciense culture
Nicknamed the Pearl of the West, Guadalajara, birthplace of tequila and mariachis, sets the tempo of authentic Mexican culture that celebrates its heritage through music and dance. Participating in a local festival here means delving into the true soul of Mexico, where friendliness and a taste for celebration intertwine to create unforgettable memories.
At Mexico, each celebration has an unmissable aspect, both for locals and for travelers in search of authenticity. The richness of its traditional culture will not fail to fascinate those who wish to experience it and to mark the spirits with a vibrant heritage of life and history.
Calendar of cultural and artistic festivals

Mexico, a country vibrant with its culture and traditions, is a fertile land of artistic and cultural events. The Mexican festivities calendar is a kaleidoscope of colors, music and ancestral dances, providing an energizing cocktail for the soul eager for discovery. Whether you are passionate about history, modern artistic events or authentic encounters, let yourself be guided through a festive calendar that celebrates the cultural richness of Mexico.
Festivals not to be missed
Each year, Mexico adorns itself with its finest assets to welcome visitors and locals to a series of unforgettable festivals. Several highlights punctuate this calendar, starting with fascinating festivities from January.
THE Veracruz Carnival, for example, is an explosive gathering of joy and festivities characterized by its colorful parades and wild music. A symbol of Mexican culture, this carnival is a must to understand the beating heart of the country.
In March, the scene transforms for the famous Mexico Festival in the city. This major cultural event features theater and dance shows, as well as contemporary art exhibitions. It is a meeting place between local and international creators, reflecting a Mexico looking to the future while honoring its heritage.
Summer dedicates its time to music festivals, with Guelaguetza International Festival in Oaxaca, where the different communities of the state present their traditional dances and music, dressed in typical costumes from deep Mexico.
In autumn, don’t miss the famous Day of the Muertos, where towns and villages are enhanced by altars dedicated to missing loved ones. It is a time when death is danced and sung, in joyful respect for ancestors.
Festivals recognized by UNESCO
Some Mexican festivals are classified as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, guaranteeing their importance and authenticity. Among them, the Ritual of the Voladores impresses with its audacity and grace. Men and gods seem to come together in this aerial dance so symbolic of the relationship to the spirituality of pre-Hispanic peoples.
Contemporary events
Mexico is not just about traditions. The country is also proving to be a dynamic player in the contemporary art scene. Film festivals, such as Guadalajara International Film Festival, are a reflection of this creative effervescence, highlighting the talent of Mexican filmmakers and international productions.
Finally, the art biennials provide a platform for social criticism and creative expression by conceptual artists, gravitating around art galleries and cultural institutions.
Fest Cheval in summer, Fiestas de Octubre in autumn, or Festival del Centro Historico are all moments when Mexico flourishes in a myriad of cultural events. Each meeting is an opportunity to fully experience the diversity and human warmth of this country.
Planning your cultural experience in Mexico
For an optimal experience, it is recommended to to plan your stay to coincide with the festivals that pique your curiosity. Don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance and find out about transport regulations local places to travel with complete peace of mind to the heart of the festivities.
Affirm your traveling spirit by choosing authentic memories, such as local crafts or contemporary artistic creations, to keep a tangible trace of these magical moments.
Mexico is a country where history and modernity coexist in a constant cultural outpouring. Its festival calendar reflects this captivating dynamic. Whether you let yourself be enchanted by the mysteries of the pre-Columbian past or by the current artistic abundance, each event is a celebration of Mexican identity. Your passion for Mexico will necessarily find an echo there, between exploration and wonder.
National holidays and historical commemorations

Mexico, with its rich cultural tapestry, is a breeding ground for national holidays and historical commemorations that punctuate the course of the year. Through these events, the country celebrates its identity, commemorates its past and forges indissoluble community ties.
El Cinco de Mayo: Reminiscences of a Past Triumph
THE Cinco de Mayo, which takes place every year on May 5, is one of the most iconic events in Mexico. Contrary to popular belief, it is not Mexican Independence Day but the commemoration of the Battle of Puebla in 1862 where the Mexican army defeated the French forces. This day is not a holiday throughout the country but is particularly celebrated in the state of Puebla with historical reenactments, folkloric shows and parades.
Día de los Muertos: An Ancestral Tradition
THE Day of the Muertos is another iconic holiday that bathes Mexico in a colorful and spiritual atmosphere. Celebrated from October 31 to November 2, this age-old tradition pays tribute to deceased loved ones. Families decorate altars with photographs, cempasúchil flowers, candles and food offerings. Processions and artistic workshops help to transmit the customs linked to this festival which combines meditation and celebration.
Public Holidays: A Calendar Rich in History
Many public holidays mark the year in Mexico, resonating like echoes of the country’s history. In 2024, these days of rest will take on, as always, a special meaning, rooted in Mexican heritage. There we find in particular the Independence Day, “Grito de Dolores”, celebrated on September 16 with fireworks, concerts and festivities which light up the country from north to south.
For those who want to experience Mexican culture in its finest expression, understand the context and importance of these national holidays and historical commemorations is essential. They offer us the opportunity to delve into the soul of a nation which tells its story through its victories, its hopes and the vibrant memory of its ancestors.
By participating in these celebrations or watching plays at Yucatan’s archaeological sites, visitors can capture the strength and complexity of Mexico, rich in traditions that continue with pride and joy. Each festival reveals a part of Mexico’s history and invites us to reflect on the unwavering links that unite the present with the past.
Contemporary events and music scenes

THE Mexico, with its rich and diverse cultural heritage, is a land where contemporary events rub shoulders with musical traditions in a symphony of colors and sounds. This Latin American country is not only known for its archaeological sites and breathtaking landscapes but also for its artistic and musical excitement.
The Effervescence of Mexican Cinema
An integral part of contemporary Mexican culture is its cinematographic contribution, particularly notable through the rediscovery of its golden age during international festivals such as Locarno. Forgotten masterpieces return to the limelight, testifying to the vitality and richness of 7th Mexican art. These pearls of cinema, once put back in the spotlight, allow the world to bear witness to the artistic and historical depth of the country.
The Current Musical Scene
The contemporary music scene in Mexico is a fabulous mix of genres and rhythms, from traditional popular music such as Mariachi to modern styles influenced by international trends. From local artists to global stars, music is celebrated with passion and energy. The presence of international figures such as Taylor Swift adds to this musical panorama with the release of his concert film “Eras Tour” which lit up the screens of 8,500 cinemas in 100 countries on October 13, highlighting the global craze for live performances and their recording. These large-scale events highlight the thirst for musicality and festivities that Mexico shares with the world.
Musical Festivals: A Cultural Pulsar
Festivals in Mexico are the pulse of contemporary music and provide a platform where local and international artists perform in front of diverse audiences. These events are not just concerts; they are a colorful expression of Mexican cultural life, where people come together to share their love of music, discover new talents, and celebrate ever-changing sounds. In an atmosphere steeped in history, festivals become spaces for meeting and exchange, offering an immersive experience in the country’s current music scene.
Conclusion: A Fertile Soil for Music and the Arts
In short, Mexico remains fertile ground for artistic creations, contemporary cultural events and the vitality of musical scenes. The interplay between traditional influences and modern trends creates a unique environment where artists can flourish and audiences from all backgrounds can discover and appreciate the rich cultural heritage. These contemporary events demonstrate the creative momentum that is propelling Mexico onto the international stage, making it essential for art and music lovers around the world.