8 Best Festivals in Mexico

Mexico is a country of vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and an eclectic mix of cultures and traditions. Each year, hundreds of festivals take place around the country from coast to coast, offering visitors a unique window into their rich history and culture. Before leaving San Ysidro on your way to Mexico, don’t forget to get car insurance. From traditional indigenous celebrations to modern music festivals, here are the top ten best festivals south of the border that you won't want to miss out on!

What are the must-visit festivals in Mexico?

Let’s take a look at the top must-visit festivals that are worth your time:

1. Day of the Dead

As one of the country’s most beloved holidays, the Day of the Dead (or Día de Muertos) is celebrated throughout the country each year. This three-day festival is celebrated in November and brings together people to remember and honor those who have passed away. The festivities are filled with marigold flowers, sugar skulls, special foods like “pan de muerto” (bread of the dead), as well as traditional music and dance performances. It’s a beautiful sight for visitors to witness as locals decorate their homes (and even gravesites) for this special celebration.

2. Noche de Rabanos (Night of Radishes)

This annual event takes place in December in Oaxaca City and celebrates with creative sculptures made entirely out of radishes! Competitors work all day to create elaborate displays from the radish pieces - some rivaling works of art - which are then judged at night during a parade down Oaxaca City’s main street. It's truly incredible what can be done with such humble ingredients.

3. Guelaguetza

Also called “La Fiesta de los Lunes del Cerro” (The Monday Festivities on the Hill), this popular festival is held every summer in Oaxaca City and marks both an ancient indigenous ritual honoring Centeotl (the god of corn) as well as an important expression of artistic pride for local natives. The event features music, dance performances, crafts booths selling traditional wares, food stalls serving up delicious eats, and parades that wind through the streets – all culminating in a fireworks show at night.

4. La Quema del Mal Humor (Burning of the Bad Mood)

Held annually in San Luis Potosi City since 1951, this unique festival is dedicated to burning away bad moods or negative feelings so that everyone can start off fresh the next year. Participants gather around a large bonfire while they sing songs related to good luck and fortune alongside traditional instruments such as drums and flutes. The atmosphere always leaves people feeling upbeat and full of joy by the end.

5. Festival Internacional Cervantino

Founded 40 years ago by then-governor Fernando Gutierrez Barrios, this international arts festival takes place each October in Guanajuato city for two weeks straight and hosts over 1 million visitors per year from around the world. It features all types of events from concerts to theater performances – including many workshops where locals can learn about shared cultural traditions from other countries. While there, make sure to check out the beautiful San Cayetano Church.

6. Yucatan Festival

Taking place every year in Merida city, this yearly tradition honors the Yucatan state’s patron saint. During this fiesta, locals dress up in colorful costumes reminiscent of old Mayan times while they participate in activities like folk dances, eating regional dishes such as “salbutes" or "panuchos", as well as enjoying live music – all ending with a magnificent fireworks show at night time.

7. Fiesta de Santa Cecilia

Celebrated throughout various parts of the country, but particularly famous within Puebla city, this annual event happens each November 22nd honoring Saint Cecilia - patroness of musicians. People gather around churches singing hymns while others join them playing musical instruments like guitars or violins. There are also food stands offering typical dishes such as tamales or pozole soup. This is a great choice for anyone looking forward to getting immersed into Mexican culture in its purest form.

8. Festival Cultural de Mayo

Happening usually towards mid-May, this five-day celebration takes place yearly within Tepic city located in Nayarit state. It honors both prehispanic heritage – showcasing its customs through recreations featuring costumes, dances, rituals, and traditional sports - as well as promoting local artisans by inviting them to present their works through different exhibitions and contests. 

Are there reliable providers in San Ysidro to help me prepare for my trip to Mexico with a car insurance policy?

When planning your holiday to this sunny state, you have to be aware that your U.S. policy won’t be valid during your vacation south of the border, as the liability requirements aren’t the same. That’s why Oscar Padilla Mexican Insurance is here to provide you with a full coverage policy that will give you peace of mind while you’re visiting one of the festivals. With more than 6 decades of experience, we’re well-equipped to ensure your satisfaction with our various policy offers. You can even check out one of the renowned museums while you’re there. Secure your vehicle and go have fun! Reach out to us today to see what we can do for you.