Festivals and events in Mexico

Mexico is full of vibrant festivals and events that will enrich your adventure with a cultural and festive touch.

A road trip in Mexico offers the opportunity to discover the cultural richness and festive spirit of this enchanting country. By traveling the Mexican roads in a converted van or a 4×4 overlander, you will have the opportunity to take part in colorful festivals, traditional events and lively celebrations. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of five must-see festivals and events on your Mexican road trip.
If you are more a “nature” person, check out the national parks to explore by van.

Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)

The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most iconic festivals, celebrated annually on November 1 and 2. This ancestral celebration pays homage to the deceased and celebrates life after death. You can experience this unique celebration in many cities in Mexico, but Oaxaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most popular destinations for this occasion.

The streets of Oaxaca are covered with colorful decorations and altars dedicated to ancestors, adorned with flowers, candles, photographs and food offerings. You can take part in the processions, attend traditional dances and taste the culinary specialties specially prepared for this occasion. The Day of the Dead is a unique cultural experience, where death is celebrated with joy, love and respect.

The Fair of San Marcos

Feria de San Marcos, also known as Feria Nacional de San Marcos, is one of the largest and oldest festivals in Mexico. This annual fair takes place in Aguascalientes, usually in April and May, and attracts millions of visitors from all over the country.

The Feria de San Marcos offers a multitude of activities, attractions and events for all tastes. Guests can enjoy rides, lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) shows, outdoor concerts, food tastings, and charros (Mexican cowboy) competitions. It is a joyous and festive celebration, where you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Mexican culture at its peak.

The Carnival of Veracruz

The Carnival of Veracruz is one of the most important carnivals in Mexico, known for its lively atmosphere and its festive spirit. This annual celebration takes place before Ash Wednesday, usually in February or March. Veracruz, a port city on the east coast of Mexico, vibrates to the rhythm of music, dance and colors during this breathtaking event.

During Carnival in Veracruz, the streets come alive with parades of allegorical floats, traditional dances and live bands playing salsa, merengue and danzón. You can also admire the dancers dressed in colorful costumes and elaborate masks. The contagious carnival atmosphere will drag you into a wild dance in the heart of this playful celebration.

The Cervantino International Festival

The Cervantino International Festival is one of the biggest cultural and artistic events in Mexico. This annual celebration takes place in the city of Guanajuato, usually in October, and attracts artists, writers and intellectuals from all over the world.

The festival pays tribute to Miguel de Cervantes, the Spanish author of Don Quixote, and offers a varied program including theatrical performances, concerts, art exhibitions, film screenings and conferences. The streets of Guanajuato are transformed into show stages, offering an effervescent and inspiring cultural atmosphere.

The Guelaguetza

The Guelaguetza is a major folk festival celebrated in the state of Oaxaca, usually in July. This traditional celebration showcases the cultural diversity of the region’s indigenous communities and celebrates their ancestral heritage.

During the Guelaguetza, you can watch colorful folk dances, parades in traditional costumes and presentations of local crafts. Indigenous groups gather to share their music, dances and crafts, providing an authentic immersion in Oaxacan traditions and culture.

Mexico is full of vibrant festivals and events that will enrich your campervan adventure with a cultural and festive touch. The Day of the Dead, the Feria de San Marcos, the Carnival of Veracruz, the Cervantino International Festival and the Guelaguetza are all opportunities to discover the cultural diversity, hospitality and joyful spirit of the Mexican people. So, get ready for unique and unforgettable moments by participating in these magical festivals during your adventure in the heart of Mexico.