To celebrate International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples on August 9th, we highlight vibrant Indigenous events and festivals in Mexico that showcase their rich cultures and traditions.
Mexico is home to 68 indigenous groups, each with its own unique customs and rituals. The country’s diverse cultural landscape offers numerous ways for visitors to connect with its Indigenous heritage.
1. Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
One of Mexico’s most iconic annual events, the Day of the Dead is a fascinating blend of Indigenous and Catholic traditions. From October 28th to November 2nd every year, families honor their deceased loved ones with colorful altars and personalized offerings.
Some of the largest Day of the Dead celebrations take place in Oaxaca, Michoacan, Mexico City, Yucatan, and Chiapas. To experience this extraordinary event like a local, consider working with a bespoke tour company or operator that specializes in customized itineraries.
Recommended Tour Operators:
* Intrepid Travel offers a five-day excursion in Mexico City.
* Journey Mexico has Day of the Dead trips in Chiapas, Oaxaca, and San Miguel de Allende.
* Tia Stephanie Tours’ “Hanal Pixan: Food for the Souls” itinerary focuses on Day of the Dead observations in Yucatan.
2. Solstice and Equinox Celebrations
The solstice and equinox have long been significant events in Indigenous communities, often marked with ceremonies and rituals to celebrate renewal and invoke blessings.
Chichen Itza hosts significant celebrations during the equinoxes and solstices.
Velas Vallarta stages on-site ceremonies for the autumn equinox and winter solstice, led by members of the Huichol or Wixarika communities.
3. Other Indigenous Events around Mexico
While Dia de los Muertos and solstice and equinox events are among the nation’s highest-profile traditions, there are many other festivals and events worth exploring:
Guelaguetza in Oaxaca honors the goddess of corn with dance and music performances.
The Xanath Festival in Veracruz celebrates Totonac culture during the Corpus Christi Festival.
In Chiapas, Holy Week is an important time for the indigenous Mayan community.
Guided Tours:
Consider joining guided tours to experience these events:
Vibe Adventures offers tours timed with the K’in-Jimultik event in San Juan Chamula.
Tia Stephanie Tours provides trips to Oaxaca for Guelaguetza.
Source: US News
