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Mexico, A Land of FiestasMexico is a country renowned for celebrations of its rich history, culture and cuisine. The following list provides a small sampling of the country’s many events during 2004. JANUARY 2004 1: New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo) – Nationwide. Mexico rings in the New Year with celebrations featuring music, dance, food and fireworks. Streets are filled with revelers, and friends and families congregate for parties that often last till dawn. One tradition calls for eating twelve grapes, one with each stroke of the chiming bell at midnight, for luck during the next 12 months. 2-12: City of Mérida Festival (Festival de la Ciudad de Mérida) -- Mérida, Yucatán. In celebration of the city’s founding more than 461 years ago, this ten-day festival features music, dance and displays of local art, as well as the annual serenade to the city, where the traditional “Mañanitas” (the “Happy Birthday” song) is sung by its residents. Visit www.merida.gob.mx. 6: Three Kings’ Day (Dίa de los Santos Reyes) – Nationwide. The Feast of the Epiphany recalls the arrival in Bethlehem of the three wise men (reyes magos) bearing gifts for baby Jesus. This is the day of traditional gift-giving for children in the central and southern regions of Mexico. Rosca de Reyes, a crown-shaped sweet bread decorated with candied fruits with a small doll baked inside, is served on this day. Whoever is lucky enough to find the figure in his slice of bread must host a party on February 2, Candlemas Day, offering tamales (stuffed cornflour cakes wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves) and atole (a hot, sweet drink thickened with corn flour) to the guests. 11-12: Grand Final Surfing Competition -- Ensenada, Baja California. Surfing competition featuring a variety of categories and interesting prizes at Ensenada’s famous San Miguel Beach. Visit www.surfer.com.mx. 15-23: St. Sebastián Fiesta (Fiesta de San Sebastián el
Martir) -- Chiapa de Corzo, Chiapas. 20: Ceremony of the Pochó Dance – Tenosique, Tabasco. Dating back to pre-Hispanic times, the traditional "Pochó" dance means it’s Carnaval time in Tabasco. The Pochό consists of a series of dances and other ancient ceremonies, performed by masked dancers, many dressed as jaguars and tigers. The dance symbolizes the purification of man through the battle between good and evil. The Pochó performances begin on January 20 at the main park in Tenosique and on all subsequent Sundays prior to the commencement of Carnival. On the last day, the dancers, "pick up their steps" or dance backwards from the main square to the church where the dance began. 26: Fiestas de la Virgen de la Candelaria – Tecomán, Colima. Religious parades with floats, dancers, musical groups and fireworks are presented in the streets. The Tecomán Fair, with arts and craft exhibitions, as well as business, industrial, agricultural and livestock exhibitions, also takes place during this time, along with a variety of other cultural events and competitions. 28-Mar 16: Cultural Festival of the Monarch Butterfly (Festival Cultural de la Mariposa Monarca) – Angangueo y Ocampo, Michoacán. Every year, the beautiful orange and black Monarch butterflies escape the cold weather in the U.S. and Canada, traveling thousands of miles to the fir forests in the state of Michoacán where they bask in the sun for period of three months. Michoacán is renowned for its butterfly sanctuaries and thousands of visitors take part in this colorful festival every year. Visit www.michoacan.gob.mx. 30-Feb 1: Second International Offshore Tournament for Sailfish, Marlin and Dorado (II Torneo Internacional de Pesca del Pez Vela, Marlin y Dorado) – Zihuatanejo-Ixtapa, Guerrero. Sponsored by Ford Motors of Mexico and various local business interests, this tournament will be held at the Port of Zihuatanejo during the height of the tourist season. Five Ford vehicles and 30 consolation prizes will be awarded to anglers over the three-day event. Visit: www.ixtapa-zihuatanejo.org. 31: 4th Annual Rural Tourism Fair in Oaxaca (4ta Feria de Turismo Rural de Oaxaca) – Oaxaca City, Oaxaca. The colonial city of Oaxaca showcases the cultural and natural diversity of rural Mexico. The event takes place at the Instituto Amigos del Sol and features more than 20 exhibitors, including travel providers, artisans and community representatives. Visitors will have the opportunity to join hiking and biking trips, visit community museums and purchase Oaxacan handicrafts. All month long: Gray Whale Exhibition (Ballenas: Gigantes del Oceano) – Tijuana, Baja California. Temporary whale exhibit at the Tijuana Cultural Center open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays. All month long: Gray Whale Watching (Festival de las Ballena Gris) -- Los Cabos, Baja California Sur. More than 90% of these migrating whales travel to the waters off the coast of Los Cabos to give birth. November through March is high season to see these beautiful mammals and their young. FEBRUARY 2: Candlemas Day (Día de la Candelaria)--Nationwide. Celebrated with candlelit processions and dancing in many towns throughout the country, this day marks the end of Christmas celebrations. On this day, Mexicans enjoy tamales and atole. The musical events, parades and dances are especially memorable in the port city of Tlacotalpan, Veracruz, where a bull is rafted into town and released. 5-8: Sayulita Beach Surfing Competition – Sayulita, Nayarit. Just 20 miles north of Puerta Vallarta, this beach town features a world class surfing competition every year including the following categories: long board, short board, juveniles, young adults, over 35, and much, much more. 16-18: Amaranto Festival (Festival del Amaranto) – Xochimilco, Mexico City. Festival dedicated to the pre-hispanic grain features amaranth in its many forms, some of which are moles, hot drinks, the sweet snack bars called alegrías, and many cereals and noodles. 6-25: Carnival—(Carnaval)--Nationwide. Celebrations beginning the week before Lent and marked with parades, parties and dancing in the streets. Some of the most famous and festive celebrations are held in the port towns of Veracrúz ( www.veracruz-puerto.gob.mx/turismo/ ), Campeche ( www.webcampeche.com ).and Mazatlán (http://www.carnavalmazatlan.com.mx.) 19-29: International Contemporary Film Festival of Mexico City (Festival Internacional del Cine Contemporáneo de la Ciudad de México) – Mexico City, Mexico. Hosted by Cinemex, the first-ever Mexico City International Contemporary Film Festival is a ten-day showcase featuring 150 international pictures, among them winners at the Venice, Berlin and Cannes film festivals. Visit http://www.ficco-mex.com/. 21: Chamula Carnival (Carnaval Chamula) – San Juan Chamula, Chiapas. Purification ceremonies, involving ethnic dances that describe Mayan legends. This carnival is one of the most important indigenous celebrations in Mexico. 22: 4th Sea Shells and Wine Festival – Ensenada, Baja California. Gastronomic and cultural event that will take place at the Riviera Cultural and Civic Center. 26-27: Chili Cook Off at Manny´s Beach Club -- Puerto Peñasco, Sonora. Organized on the border of Yuma, Arizona and Sonora, competitors from around the state compete in this spicy annual cook-off which also features a cultural festival. Guests of honor are the snow birds that come from Canada and the northern U.S. to spend the winter months. 26-Mar 14: Tapachula International Fair (Feria Internacional de Tapachula) -- Tapachula, Chiapas. Cattle trade show featuring livestock, mechanical rides, bullfights, rodeos, cockfights and sport races, with a cultural twist. 27: Festival Cultural para el Desierto – Puerto Peñasco, Sonora. Cultural exposition that shows off the beautiful state of Sonora. TBD: International Sailfish Tournament (Torneo Internacional de Pesca de Pez Vela)—Manzanillo, Colima. Since 1954, Manzanillo has been referred to as the sailfishing capital of the world due to the great number of sailfish captured there. Manzanillo’s Sport Fishing Club organizes the event. MARCH 1-4: Ensenada Mardi Gras – Ensenada, Baja California. Traditional festivity that takes place on the main streets of Ensenada where visitors can enjoy parades, live music, mariachis, culinary activities, dance, extreme sports and mechanical attractions. Great fun for the family. 1-7: Mastercard Classic Golf Tournament – Mexico City, Mexico. The luxurious Bosque Real Country Club in Mexico City will host the MasterCard Classic Golf Tournament which is one of the top international events in the world of golf. The total purse this year is $2,000,000 USD with the winner taking home $300,000 USD. Maryland native David Eger will return to defend his 2003 victory. Visit www.golfweb.com/tournaments/s005/ or call 011-5255-5261-8863 for more information. 5: Night of the Witches (Noche de Brujas) – Catemaco, Veracruz. Is modern medicine getting you down? Need a cure or are just plain curious? Referred to as the mecca of witch doctors, thousands flock to the small lakeside town of Catemaco seeking non-conventional methods, and many swear by the results. Taking place the first Friday night of March every year, the annual witch gathering is a spectacle of witches, healers, magicians and wizards. 10-28: Annual Festival of Mexico (Festival de México en El Centro Histórico) – Mexico City, Mexico. Regarded as Latin America’s most vibrant celebrations of art and culture in Mexico, this two-week festival features diverse events including opera, concerts, theatre, art exhibits, dance productions and gourmet fare. More than a million local and international spectators will flock to Mexico City for the event, and proceeds go toward the rescue and restoration of the art and architecture of Mexico City’s historic downtown area. See www. www.fchmexico.com. 10-16: Huatulco International Ocean Music Festival (Festival Internacional Música del Mar de Huatulco)--Huatulco, Oaxaca. Celebrated in the Bay of Huatulco, artists from around the world entertain guests with concerts, dance shows, plays and art exhibits. Concerts and performances take place at strategic locations throughout Huatulco such as parks, the open air theatre Teatro del Mar, on a catamaran at sea or in the chapel of a remote 18th century coffee plantation, and complemented by presentations of folklore music and an art exposition. 11-14: World Corona Rally Expo (Expo Mundial Rally Corona) – Leόn, Guanajuanto. Mexico’s long tradition of rally motorsport is exposed to the world in the hosting of the FIA World Championship which hasn’t taken place in North America in 15 years. The mountains above the picturesque city of Leόn provide the ideal scenery for this world-renowned event, attracting thousands of national and international motorsport lovers. A cultural feast of music, dance and typical foods is also part of the program. Visit www.rallymexico.com. 16-20: XIII International Guitar Festival of Morelia (XIII Festival Internacional de Guitarra de Morelia) – Morelia, Michoacán. Michoacán, with its rich musical traditions and home to one of the oldest conservatories in Latin America, is the perfect host for this popular guitar festival. The program feature recitals, contests, conferences, seminars and expositions, with local as well as international artists participating from Venezuela, Chile, Germany, Spain, Argentina, Cuba and the Czech Republic. For more information, contact the event coordinator at guitarraul@hotmail.com. 18-21: Tajín Summit (Cumbre Tajín) – Tajín, Veracruz. This festival evokes the spring season (a time of renovation) and celebrates the archeological sites and natural beauty of Veracruz. The central theme of Tajín 2004 is the Ritual. Visit http://www.cumbretajin.com. 19-25: International Film Festival (Muestra Internacional de Cine) -- Guadalajara, Jalisco. Now in its 19th year, this contemporary film festival is the oldest and most important film festival in Mexico, offering the best selection of Mexican and Ibero-American films of the year. The Guadalajara’s festival features a variety of films including long films, shorts, documentaries and children’s films. Visit: http://www.mcmgdl.com/php1/secciones/7/index.php. 20-22: Salsa and Merengue International Festival (Festival Internacional de Cumbia, Salsa y Merengue)--Manzanillo, Colima. Manzanillo is a natural beach paradise located in the state of Colima about 500 miles from Mexico City. In the year 2000, Manzanillo successfully inaugurated one of the most joyful festivals on earth: The salsa and merenge international festival. The salsa and merenge international festival features the best artists and musicians of salsa, cumbia and merenge from Cuba, Columbia, Argentina, Dominican Republic, United States and Mexico. In the year 2003, the whole festival registered an estimated assistance of 20,000 people. In addition, the festival is free of charge. 21: Spring Equinox (Equinocio de la Primavera)--Chichén-Itzá, Yucatán. Thousands of people from around the world gather at this Mayan ruin on the Yucatán peninsula to witness the afternoon shadow of the snake-god Kukulcán slowly "crawl down" the country's largest Mayan pyramid, Kulkulcan (aka El Castillo). 21-23 Grand Prix- Monterrey, Nuevo Leόn. The Monterrey Grand Prix is the third round of races this year in the Champ Car series taking place on May 23. But the fun actually starts on May 21 in the Fundidora Park where classifications and auto exhibitions take place. Visit www.cart.com/Event/Events.asp?ID=499. March: XII Regata International -- Nueva Vallarta, Nayarit. Four-day event in the Bahia of Banderas (Flag Bay) featuring sailing and a variety of beach activities. Fun for the entire family. APRIL 1-7: Cuernavaca Flower Fair (Feria de la Flor) - Cuernavaca, Morelia, Morelos. Cuernavaca's streets are lined with flower booths and gardening competitions. At night, everyone gathers at the main plaza for a sound-and-light show. Pay a visit to the famous Borda Gardens, once the residence of emperor Maximilian and his wife Carlota. 4: Sardine Fishing Ritual (Pesca de la Sardina) -- Tacotalpa, Tabasco. In the picturesque villa of Tapijulapa, an enchanting cavern known as “Sulfer Cave” aka “Cave of the Sardines” (Cueva de la Sardina) is the site of an annual religious ritual with pre-Hispanic roots. The ritual involves fishing for sardines for the purpose of imploring Mother Nature to bring sufficient rain for the crops and the more sardines caught during the ceremony, the better the harvest will be. Visit: www.tabasco.gob.mx. 4-7: Xochimilco Festival -- Xochimilco, Mexico City. Held annually two weeks before Easter, this four-day event dates back to pre-colonial times when Mexicans honored the goddess of flowers (Xochipilli) and the goddess of dance (Maculxochitl) to ensure good harvests. Every year, a young woman is crowned La Flor Mas Bella del Ejido (the most beautiful flower of Ejido) and presides over colorful parades on flower-decorated barges along Xochimilco's famed canals. 4-11: Holy Week (Semana Santa)--Nationwide. Beginning with Palm Sunday and ending with Easter Sunday, the week's religious celebrations include reenactments of the events leading up to Christ's crucifixion. The most renowned celebrations are held in Mexico City, Pátzcuaro, San Luis Potosí, Zacatecas, San Cristobal de las Casas and Taxco. 6: Chamula Carnival (Carnaval Chamula) – San Juan Chamula, Chiapas. A carnival at the church’s zocalo, where purification ceremonies involving ethnic dances describing Mayan legends take place. This carnival is one of the most important native celebrations, for which the “chamulas” Indians prepare themselves some days prior to the ceremonies, covering their bodies with monkey hair, wearing coats and hats from the Napoleon period, and playing and dancing the “bolonchon”. 9-25: Xalapa Fair (Feria de Xalapa) – Xalapa, Veracruz. Referred to as the Athens of Veracruz, Xalapa is bursting with culture. The Xalapa fair dates back to the 18th century and offers a variety of artworks, handicrafts and unique products from the region at a steal. The fair features activities for all ages. 15- May 5: San Marcos Fair (Feria de San Marcos)--Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes. A colorful three-week festival featuring handicrafts, bullfights, folkloric dancing, games, cockfights, fireworks displays, cultural events and local cuisine. The National Prize of Poetry and a traditional competition of typical dress also take place during this international celebration. 17-20: Cultural Festival of Zacatecas (Festival Cultural de Zacatecas) – Zacatecas. This festival revolves around displays of literature, dance, theatre, music and art taking place in the strategic venues throughout Zacatecas State. Visit www.folklorico.com/festivales/zacatecas.html. 22-25: Regatta Newport Beach - Ensenada, Baja California. Yachting competition originating in Newport Beach, California to Ensenada with more than 50 participating yachts. Festival and ceremony upon arrival in Ensenada. 29-30: Festival of Nopales (Festival de Nopales) – Tlaxcalancingo, Puebla. This small town on the outskirts of Puebla celebrates the nopal cactus annually with a food fair featuring nopal salads, stews, stuffed nopales and even nopal ice cream, as well as other delicious regional specialties, grilled meats and barbeque. TBD: Haddock International Fishing Tournament (Torneo de Robalo) - Tampico, Tamaulipas. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, this fishing town features an annual Haddock tournament for both national and international fisherman. MAY 1-18: Tabasco Fair (Feria de Tabasco) -- Villahermosa Parque, Tabasco. Taking place at the famous Villahermosa Park, famous for its Olmec artifacts, the Tabasco State Fair features a colorful boat parade over the Grijalva river. Seventeen counties share their best in gastronomy, art, crafts and cultural spectacles. In the evenings, visitors join the outdoor theatre where plays are presented by each county. 8: International Swimming Competition (Maratón Internacional
de Natación “Cañón del Sumidero”) - Chapa de Corso, Chiapas. Five-kilometer
swimming competition for masters and juniors. Also a 10K free-style for
women and 15K for men.
16-22: ROLEX/IGFA Offshore Championship – Los Cabos, Baja California Sur.
This annual competition attracts more than 60 qualifying teams from 33
countries representing 250 international anglers and their guests to Cabo
San Lucas and the Los Cabos area for four days of intense fishing on 44
local charter boats. Each team is allowed to weigh two fish of each species
on each day of fishing with a total of points accumulated during the four
days defining the winners. Top prizes include of course engraved gold and
stainless Rolex watches. 24 – June 2: International Cheese and Wine Fair (Feria Internacional del Queso y el Vino) - Tequisquiapan, Queretaro. Tequisquiapan celebrates each year its National Cheese and Wine Fair hosting a week of festivities including cheese and wine tasting, expositions, lectures, conferences and workshops with national and international experts. As a part of the event, exhibitors and producers participate in the Vintequis enological contest. 18: Vineyards Flowering Festival – Ensenada, Baja California. Flowering harvest that starts the production of wine grapes and takes place at different wineries each year in the Guadalupe Valley. Contact fiestasvendimia@hotmail.com. Late May: Jazz Festival 2004--Cancun, Quintana Roo. In May, this Mexican Caribbean city showcases some of the world’s best jazz musicians. The three-day festival boasts all types of Jazz -- from traditional to contemporary, Afro-Latino to Flamenco and Cuban Jazz. Jazz lovers will descend upon Cancun to savor world-class Jazz in a tropical, beachfront setting and surrounded by one-of-a-kind Mexican and Mayan culture, food and attractions not found at any other Caribbean destination. Visit www.cancunjazz.com. TBD: XXI Huatulco Sail Fishing Tournament (XXI Torneo Internacional de la Pesca de Pez Vela) -- Huatulco, Oaxaca. Huatulco, an excellent site for sport fishing and surfing hosts this popular annual tournament, now in its 21st year. TBD: 17th Alarconian Theatrical Festival (XVII
Jornadas Alarconianas) – Taxco, Guerrero. Ten days of artistic and cultural
representations. Literature, music, theatre, dance, opera and plastic art
works presented by local artists. BC: Fiestas de Mayo - Chetumal, Quintana Roo. This cultural event takes place at the fort of San Felipe. The Fiestas de Mayo is a month-long festivity celebrated at the famous Mayan Kohunlich ruins. During the first week, visitors can appreciate the ritual of the sacred copal of Kohunlich, the pyramid of masks. The festivities include fire works, dances and theatrical war fights as they happened centuries ago. Visit: http://www.quintanaroo.gob.mx/nuestroestado/eventos/eventos2000/eventos_2000.htm. JUNE 2-6: 4th International Marimba Festival (IV Festival Internacional de Marimbistas) – Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas. Held at the Casa de Cultura de Venustiano Carranza. Tradition, execution and the rich sound of the marimba with local, regional and international musicians. 5: Corpus Christi Fair (Feria de Corpus Christi)—Papantla, Veracruz. This annual religious festival consists of parades and church services. Voladores, or flyers, perform spectacular feats, launching themselves from the top of a pole (often reaching as high as 100 feet), and slowly descending as the ropes around the pole unwind. During this ancient Náhuatl and Totonac ritual, each volador circles the pole 13 times before reaching the ground, for a total of 52 turns. The ceremony is said to promote fertility, communicate with the heavens and honor the sun. 14–July 14: National Ceramics Award Fair and Fiesta of San Pedro--Tlaquepaque, Jalisco. On the outskirts of Guadalajara, this annual event offers exhibits, demonstrations and competitions of fine Mexican pottery. TBD: Caribbean Cultural Festival – Cancún, Quintana Roo. The Caribbean Cultural Festival provides spaces for cultural expression where visitors can discover the artistic elements that constitute the Caribbean identity. This whole week of festivities features music, dance, film, theater and literature. Visit http://www.festivalculturalcaribeno.com. JULY 13-19: 9th Villista Horseback Ride (IX Cabalgata Villista), Chihuahua, Chihuahua. More than 1000 people take part in this horseback riding adventure which covers 136 miles from the City of Chihuahua to Hidalgo del Parral. Entire families are welcome to participate. Visit www.chihuahua.gob.mx or contact +52-627-523-4070 for more information. 16-Aug 15: 8th Festival of Adventure Tourism (8° Festival de Turismo de Aventura) – Chihuahua, Chihuahua. Athletes compete for cash prizes at this festival featuring everything from marathons and triathlons, to mountain biking and sand-boarding. If the competition doesn’t take your breath away, the lush scenery will. See www.chihuahua.gob.mx/turismoweb. 19-26: Guelaguetza--Oaxaca, Oaxaca. Dating back to pre-Hispanic times when the festival was offered to the gods in hopes of a bountiful harvest, this festivity brings together delegations from the region's seven indigenous cultures as they show samples of their traditional costumes, songs and dances. Members of each group distribute objects typical of their region to the public. 19-Aug 3: National Sarape Fair (Feria Nacional de Sarape) – Sta. Ana Chiautempan, Tlaxcala. The renowned rectangular “sarape” shawls are spotlighted every year at this annual fair and are one of Mexico’s traditional textile handicrafts. Different styles are produced in various regions of Mexico, with local culture influencing design. The festival also features other handicrafts, cultural and sporting events. 22- 25: Cabo Jazz Festival (Festival de Jazz Cabo) – Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur. The Cabo Jazz Festival takes place on one of the most pristine beaches in Cabo, Sunset Beach. Held right on the beach in the sand and under the stars, some of the world’s top names in Jazz will be participating. TBD: VIII International Film Festival, Short Expression 2004 (El Festival de Expresión en Corto 2004)--Guanajuato, Guanajuato. An annual film festival showcasing short films and documentaries and awarding the creators of outstanding films with materials and equipment needed to continue their art. July/August: International Festival of Contemporary Dance (Festival Internacional de Danza Contemporánea) – San Luis Potosi, San Luis Potosi. Festival celebrating contemporary dance and featuring national and international artists from various countries such as Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, United States, Japan and Venezuela. Visit www.visitasanluispotosi.com/ferias.htm. AUGUST 1-10: Wine Harvest Festival (Fiestas de la Vendimia)--Ensenada, Baja California. A food and wine festival in which local dishes marry the fine vintages of local wineries. 1-10: Marimba and Flower Festival (Fiesta de la Marimba y las Flores) - Comitán y Palenque, Chiapas. Special religious masses, processions and popular fair with mechanical games and pyrotechnics. 1-20: Huamantla Fair (Feria de Huamantla)—Huamantla, Tlaxcala. At this event, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, churches and miles of city streets are draped in a beautiful tapestry of colorful flower petals and decorative sawdust. A running of bulls follows the solemn event. 2-16: 26th International Chamber Music Festival (Festival
Internacional de Música de Camara)--San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato.. A
classical music festival to bid farewell to the summer, featuring
award-winning international ensembles, guest musicians and local artists
performing in the city’s beautiful open gardens or grand gothic cathedral.
TBD: International Amber Expo (Expo Ambar Internacional) - San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas. Mexican amber, with its magical colors, brilliant finishes and age old history, is considered by many the finest in the world. With the goal of developing and integrating the amber artist community of Chiapas and promoting international recognition, this expo has been organized to promote the excellent quality jewels elaborated with this precious material. Forty-eight different tones can be found in the amber from Chiapas which is exhibited in a variety of forms at the event from sculptures to items of jewelry. Visit http://www.expo-ambar.com.mx. TBD: Chili Festival
(Festival del Chile en Nogada) – Puebla, Puebla. SEPTEMBER 2-12: 11th International Mariachi and Charro Festival (11° Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charreria)--Guadalajara, Jalisco. Annual celebration of mariachi music in the mariachi capital of the world, gathering musicians from Mexico and around the world. Visit www.mariachi-jalisco.com.mx. 8: Tepozteco Challenge (Reto al Tepozteco)--Tepoztlán, Morelos. Performance depicting King Tepoztecatl’s conversion to the Catholic religion. Procession leads toward the Tepozteco Pyramid, where offerings are made. This event includes a food festival, chinelo dances and fireworks. 15–16: Mexican Independence Day (Día de Independencia Mexicana)--Nationwide. Mexico celebrates its declaration of independence from Spain in 1810. The night of the 15th, at city halls across the country, one can witness "El Grito," a dramatic reenactment of revolutionary Father Hidalgo's call for his fellow Mexicans to join the uprising. On September 16, military parades are held in almost every Mexican city. 16-19: International Ixtapacifico Surf Competition (Torneo Internacional de Surf – Ixtapacifico) – Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Guerrero. Surfing event at Las Escolleras Beach, Ixtapa, to promote the sport of surfing as well as create a conscience of conservation of beaches and marine life. 18: Running of the Bulls at San Miguel (Sanmiguelada)--San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato. Also known as the Pamplonada because it is Mexico’s imitation of Spain’s “running of the bulls,” the Sanmiguelada is an annual festival usually taking place the third Saturday of September, honors Saint Michael the Archangel and involves dances, concerts, fireworks and bulls running through town. Daring participants meet at high noon. http://www.sanmiguelguide.com/tour-pamplonada.htm. 19–21: Fall Equinox at Kulkulcan (Equinoccio de Kulkulcan)--Chichén Itzá, Yucatán. Thousands of people from around the world gather at this Mayan ruin on the Yucatan peninsula to witness the afternoon shadow of the snake-god Kukulcán slowly "crawl down" the country's largest Mayan pyramid, El Castillo. 25: International Maadman Triathlon of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo (Triatlón Internacional de Ixtapa- Zihuatanejo) – Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Guerrero. After enjoying the Carribean shores of Cancún in 2003, the renowned Maadman Triathlon is heading for Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. The course features a 1.9 kilometer swim, 180 kilometers of cycling, and 42.2-kilometer run. See http://maadman.com/home.html. 26: XXII International Marathon of Mexico City (XXII Maratόn Internacional de la Ciudad de México) – Mexico City, México. Mexico City’s altitude makes this popular 26-mile marathon one of the most challenging in the world. More than 15,000 runners of all ages and from all walks of life will compete in five categories. This year, the marathon will start and end at Mexico City’s historic downtown area (the “Zocalo”). See www.maraton.df.gob.mx. TBD: National Antique Festival, (Muestra Nacional de
Antigüedades) -- Saltillo, Coahuila. OCTOBER 1-12: Coffee Fair (Feria del Café) – Cuetzalan, Puebla. Home to some of the best coffee beans in Mexico, Cuetzalan welcomes coffee aficionados from around the world to taste the coffee, local fruit liqueurs and appetizers. This fair also highlights local handicrafts, especially the embroidered blouses called “huipiles”. 1-21: 28th National Mole Fair (28° Feria Nacional del Mole)--San Pedro Actopan, Estado de México. Just south of Mexico City, thousands of varieties of mole will be prepared for sampling and competition. This spicy sauce is a Mexican staple and made of unsweetened chocolate, peppers and spices, often served with meat or poultry. Eat your fill and take some home; mole paste stays fresh for several months in the freezer. 2-9: Oaxaca’s Food of the Gods Festival (Festival de la Comida de los Dioses) -- Oaxaca, Oaxaca. A culinary exploration of the fabulous indigenous cultures of Oaxaca. Known globally for its culinary creativity, Oaxaca is the birthplace of chocolate! More information on this weeklong event is available at www.food-of-the-gods-festival.com. 12-14: International Nacho Fest (Festival Internacional del Nacho) – Piedras Negras, Coahuila. Every year this event is organized to promote the notorious nacho, one of the region’s culinary contributions to Mexican cuisine. Visit www.festivaldelnacho.com.mx. 14-17: Bread Fair (Feria del Pan) – Cholula, Puebla. Cholula, the home of the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, hosts the Bread Fair every year in October. A huge brick oven is constructed in the main plaza and bakers from Cholula and neighboring towns give demonstrations of traditional Mexican bread-making. Over 150 different kinds of bread are for sale. 15-20: 42nd Tlaxcala Fair (Feria de Tlaxcala) - Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala. In honor of all Saints and the dead, the annual festivities offer all sorts of cultural, sporting, and culinary events, including bullfighting, rodeos, cockfighting, and escaramuzas, a women's choreographed horse-riding show. In addition, a Ms. Feria de Tlaxcala is crowned every year, highlighting the beautiful people from the region. For more information please visit www.feriatlaxcala.com. 18: The Night of the Sun, Pavarotti Without Borders (La Noche del Sol, Pavarotti Sin Fronteras)--Mexicali, Baja California. Italian opera great Luciano Pavarotti’s last concert in the Americas will be given in the Mexicali desert as one of many activities commemorating the 100th anniversary of the city. The event, expected to attract 40,000 people, promises to be Pavarotti’s most memorable since the tenor’s concert in Chichén-Itzá six years ago. Last week of Oct thru first week of Nov: 9th Festival of Skulls (IX Festival de las Calaveras) –Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes. This macabre festival features a variety of deadly art exhibits, performing arts and a parade of skeletons with contests for the most creative costumes and artwork. Skulls of different sizes and materials are on display as well as games and stands with traditional food and seasonal fruits. Visit http://www.aguascalientes.gob.mx/english/. Month of October: Tamaulipas International Festival (Festival Internacional Tamaulipas) – Tamaulipas. Held in October every year, this festival features a variety of cultural and artistic events including exhibits, plays, concerts, cinema, turning the entire state into a hotbed of culture. October Festivals (Fiestas de Octubre)--Guadalajara, Jalisco. Guadalajara sparkles with this month-long event involving concerts, dances, cultural exhibits and food and attracting visitors and performers from all over the world. TBD: 32nd International Cervantine Festival (32° Festival
Cervantino Internacional)--Guanajuato, Guanajauato. One of the most
important cultural events in Mexico, this annual festival fills the streets
of this colonial town with performers and visitors from all over the world.
TBD: 3rd International Barroco-Cervantino Festival (3rd Festival Internacional Barroco-Cervantino) – San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas. Nine days featuring more than 150 cultural and artistic spectacles – an extension of the popular Guanajuato’s Festival Cervantino, and gathering more than 900 regional, national and international artists. Performances will take place at the Casa de Cultura, Hermanos Dominguez Theatre, Cathedral square, and Daniel Zebadua Theatre. NOVEMBER 1–2: Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)--Nationwide. The most colorful annual festival on the Mexican calendar, commemorating departed loved ones, with the dead having divine permission to visit friends and relatives on earth during the festival. The living welcome the souls of the departed with offerings incorporating their favorite foods and beverages, as well as marigolds and candles. Celebrations of the Day of the Dead are particularly memorable in the states of Oaxaca and Michoacán, as well as in Mexico City. 1-14: Christmas Bread Fair -- Chignahuapan, Puebla. A scenic three-hour drive or bus ride from Mexico City, Chignahuapan offers all types of specialized Christmas breads. They include the famous pan de hilo, which is made into little animal forms to decorate the statues of the Virgin on Candlemas, are for tasting and for sale at the fair. 1-15: 3rd Mexican Carribean Food Festival (3° Festival Gastronómico del Caribe Mexicano) – Cancún, Quintana Roo. The festival will feature a broad range of culinary creations from 30 of the finest restaurants in Cancun and a number of others from throughout the Mayan Riviera and Isla Mujeres. Additionally, numerous specialty dishes in both national and international styles will be unveiled during the festival, offering a wide variety of tastes to please every palate. http://festivalgastronomico.qroo.gob.mx. 11-21: Festival del Gourmet – Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. More than 20,000 annually attend one of Mexico's premier culinary arts events. Local chefs at participating restaurants and more than 20 guest chefs from around the world serve up some 500 gourmet foods, cheeses, tequilas and liquors. Cooking classes, wine tasting, beer samplings, specials at restaurants and other events. Visit www.festivalgourmet.com. 12-14: 12-14 – Annual Harley Davidson Rocky Point Rally (Rally de Motociclismo) – Puerto Peñasco, Sonora. Annual HOG get together featuring charity events, beaches, live music and of course “rides”. Visit www.rockypointrally.com. 13-20: 3rd Annual Yucatán Bird Festival (Festival de las Aves Toh) – Mérida, Yucatán. The festival features bird-watching tours/sessions, workshops, and exhibits and is designed to illustrate how the past, including the colonial and post-colonial periods, sheds light upon the dynamic action in the natural process of today’s birds, the special role they place in our environment and in the Yucatan territory. 13-23: Neighborhood Festival (Festival del Barrio)—Monterrey, Nuevo Leόn. Considered the third most important festival in Mexico, this 10-day festival features more than 100 events where local and national artists perform in dance, music and theatre. For more information, visit www.festivalbarrioantiguo.org.mx. 13-29: National Tequila Fair (Feria Nacional del Tequila) Tequila, Jalisco. Held annually in celebration of Mexico's beloved spirit, participants can enjoy two weeks of events, including an exposition of the primary tequila makers, where you can experience the elaboration process first-hand. The fair also features charreadas (Mexican rodeo events), cockfights, mariachi serenades and amazing firework displays. 15-17: Cumbia, Salsa and Merengue International Festival (Festival Internacional de Cumbia, Salsa y Merengue)--Manzanillo, Colima. The annual festival attracts artists and musicians of international stature to this scenic port city.
27-Dec 5: XVIII International Book Fair in Guadalajara (XVIII Feria Internacional del Libro - “FIL”) – Guadalajara, Jalisco. Created almost two decades ago by the distinguished University of Guadalajara, the FIL is an eclectic celebration of literature, art and culture, representing the second largest book fair in the world and, by far, the largest and most diverse international offering of publications in the Spanish language. Throughout the nine-day event, writers, scholars, artists, and literary connoisseurs from all walks of life will fill the halls of the Guadalajara Expo Center and submerge themselves in the best that the literary world has to offer, as well as partake in cultural festivities that include art exhibits, dance performances, and musical concerts. Visit www.fil.com.mx. TBD: Ocean Festival (Fiesta del Mar)--Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. Festivals held during the month-long celebration of this famous resort destination include art, sports competitions, food festivals and a spectacular fireworks display that closes the ceremonies on the final day. All month long: November Festivals (Fiestas de Noviembre)--Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. The events during this month include the annual Pipeline of Mexico, Zicatela Beach’s International Surfing Tournament, the International Sailfishing Tournament and the Coastal Dance Festival Nov–Mar: Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries (Santuarios de la Mariposa Monarca) -- several areas in Michoacán State. Every year many millions of monarch butterflies migrate from Canada and the U.S. to the Oyamel forests near Angangueo, Michoacán in the fall, hibernating there for winter and mating in the spring. Two sanctuaries are open to the public. TBD: XVI International Musical Festival of Morelia (XVI Festival Internacional de Música de Morelia Miguel Bernal Jiménez )-- Morelia, Michoacán. Created in 1989 and named after Mexico’s famous composer Miguel Bernal Jiménez, the annual festival features performances by musicians from all over the world and takes place in beautiful settings throughout Morelia, a World Heritage Site. Visit http://www.festivalmorelia.com. Late November TBD: 67th National Silver Fair (Feria Nacional de Plata)—Taxco, Guerrero. Taxco is the region of the country known as Mexico’s “silver heart,” as it is the source of much of the lucrative silver mining and export business. The resulting wealth made Taxco a beautiful city renowned for its wares. Every year Mexico’s best silversmiths compete against artists from around the world. The lavish festival surrounding the event includes concerts, dances, fireworks, and a seemingly endless supply of unique items for sale. Late November: 6th Annual Culinary Heritage and Cultural Tourism Festival 2004 (VI Congreso sobre Patrimonio Gastronomico y Turismo Cultural) – Puebla, Puebla. The colonial city of Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrates Mexico’s rich gastronomic heritage as well as promotes competition among regional cuisines and the nation’s top chefs, making it a favorite among Mexican and international food experts alike—as well as people just looking for good food and a good time. The festival features food workshops, delectable samplings, cultural events and an academic program. Late November TBD: Balsas River Nautical Marathon. (Maratόn Náutico del Río Balsas) Bay of Zihuatanejo, Guerrero. Considered the most important jet boat marathon in Mexico and one of the most important events of its kind in the Americas, the 34th Balsas River Nautical Marathon covers almost 500 miles in six consecutive days and welcomes participants from countries all over the world. Visit www.balsas.com.mx. TBD: Night of the Bells (Noche de las Campanas) – Cholula, Puebla. More than 100 bells from the different churches in Cholula participate in this annual celestial concert of bells. Townspeople sit atop roofs with lit candles to enjoy the harmonious spectacle. The town of Cholula boasts the greatest quantity of churches and alters in Mexico with a total of 365 in the district, one for each day of the year. TBD: Grand Pacific Maratón 2004 (Gran Maratón Pacifico 2004) – Mazatlán, Sinaloa. Runners from the world over participate in this challenging race that takes place at the Pearl of the Pacific, enjoying miles and miles of beautiful scenery. TBD: XI Mazatlán Cultural Festival (XI Festival Cultural de Mazatlán) – Mazatlán, Sinaloa. A cultural celebration featuring theatre, dance, film, literature and concerts throughout the month in the Historic Downtown area (Centro Histόrico) with many of the events taking place in the open air as well as the Angela Peralta Theatre. DECEMBER TBD: Piñata Fair (Feria de la Piñata) -- Alcoman, Mexico State. In the small town of Alcoman only a few miles from Mexico City, there is annual celebration of the children's favorite party favor, the piñata. Among the piñatas on show are those made from clay, traditional models with seven points that symbolize the seven deadly sins, and those made from cardboard with popular children's designs. This is a great festival to celebrate with families where you can learn to make your own piñata. 12: Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe (Fiesta de la Virgin de Guadalupe)--Nationwide. The most important holiday in Mexico, in which millions of pilgrims converge on the Mexico City basilica of the country’s patron saint to pay tribute. The square in front of the Basilica is a stage for singing, dancing and celebration. 12-21: Festival of San Cristóbal de las Casas--San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas. This two-week festival in Chiapas includes a procession by the Tzotzil and Tzetzal Indians, Marimba music and a parade of horses. The annual festival is unique to this region and includes the Fiesta of the Virgin Guadalupe as part of its celebration. 16–24: Posadas--Nationwide. Processions recreating Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem, in which people holding candles go door to door to seek shelter. Festivities include piñatas, Christmas caroling and special foods and sweets. 23: Festival of the Radishes (Festival de los Rábanos)--Oaxaca, Oaxaca. Local artisans and sculptors set up stalls around the main square to display their elaborate pieces of art--made entirely from radishes! The local crop is used for creating nativity scenes and famous Mexican figures. Balloons and birds crafted from local flowers add even more color. 24: Las Calendas--Oaxaca, Oaxaca. The districts of Oaxaca City prepare floats and costumes for processions held throughout the city. The parades feature marmotas (translucent paper spheres lit from within and carried aloft on poles) and giant paper maché people whose arms flop around as the person hidden inside dances. About the Mexico Tourism Board The Mexico Tourism Board (MTB) brings together the resources
of federal and state governments, municipalities and private companies to
promote Mexico's tourism attractions and destinations internationally.
Created in 1999, the MTB is Mexico's tourism promotion agency, and its
participants include members of both the private and public sectors. The MTB
has offices throughout North America, Europe, Japan and Latin America. |
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