If anyone knows how to put together the party of the year, it’s Veracruz. Carnival is not just a party, it’s the party that shakes the port with such intensity that even the waves of the sea are infected. Between drumming, laughter and a riot of colors, this celebration has earned its title as “the most joyful in the world.” And how could it not? Here, fun is an art refined over the years.
This 2025, the most representative festival of Jarocho folklore celebrates 101 years of uninterrupted celebration
The Veracruz Carnival is a perfect mix of tradition and Veracruz flavor: a parade of history that dances to the rhythm of Son Jarocho and always has a space to have a good torito. What makes it so special? Well, the Jarochos say that if the carnival were a person, it would be the soul of the party at all the meetings… and we don’t doubt it one bit.
So, ready to find out why this carnival is a show you can’t miss? We give you 5 reasons to take out the forbidden steps, let your hair down and enjoy the joy as it is lived in the port. Hold on because this is just beginning!
- A tradition with more rhythm than a fandango
The Veracruz Carnival is not only the most joyful in the world, it is also one of the oldest in Mexico. Its roots date back to the 18th century, when the party was put together with costumes, mojigangas and lots of Afro-Antillean music. Celebrating 101 years of uninterrupted tradition, the fun here never stops. If the past had a playlist, it would surely include La Bamba and a good batucada.
The 2025 Carnival will be as unforgettable as the 2024 centenary, with surprises and guest artists that will make this edition an even more special celebration — said Patricia Lobeira, mayor of the Port of Veracruz.
Many renowned artists have graced its stages: Ricky Martin, Enrique Iglesias, Paulina Rubio, Cristian Castro, Wisin, to name a few. This party reinvents itself every year, and evolves with the times. From June 26 to July 2, what surprise will 2025 bring us? Stay tuned for the schedule!
- The Burning of Bad Mood: let’s give the bad vibes a good beating!
Everything will begin on June 26, with the Burning of Bad Mood. Long faces and worries are out! An effigy, which usually represents something or someone that has given headaches during the year, is burned in a symbolic act full of laughter and applause. Here the motto is lived: “What is useless, does not get in the way.” It is the perfect starting point to get into the carnival mood.
Tip: June and July are months with a high probability of rain in Veracruz. Keep up to date with the weather with Meteored to enjoy the magic of the carnival to the fullest.
- The coronation: kings and queens with lots of flavor
On June 27th, the kings and queens of the carnival will be crowned, both children and adults. This ceremony, full of music and color, not only adds shine to the festivities, but also reinforces the community spirit that characterizes Veracruz.
Between cheers, laughter and dancing, the port will celebrate its monarchs, who will lead the parades and activities of the carnival. Generally, both ceremonies end with live music shows and a big dance for the attendees. As they say around here: “If you make a mistake, dance tropically!”
- The parades: a catwalk of color and joy
What would carnival be without its parades? From June 28 to July 1: floats, troupes, baton twirlers and drum bands will parade along the main avenues with an explosion of music and colour that will make even the stiffest person dance.
The illuminated parades will create a true visual spectacle that will leave everyone with their mouths open. The best part? The music doesn’t stop, and between drum bands and tropical rhythms, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the atmosphere.
- Juan is leaving us… goodbye and until next time
On July 2, the party will come to an end with the Burial of Juan Carnaval. But don’t expect tears of sadness. On this evening, a local group performs a comic-dramatic parody in which the Royal Court attends in mourning, crying the “death” of Juan Carnaval.
In a procession full of humor and satire, Juan Carnaval’s testament will be read among laughter, reminding us that everything good deserves a dignified… and fun ending. It is the perfect farewell to a week of celebration that will remain engraved in the hearts of the port and those who visit it.
The 2025 Veracruz Carnival is not just a party, it is an invitation to experience joy at its best, to the rhythm of the happiest port in the world. Whether you come for the music, the parades, the history, or just to enjoy the Jarocho atmosphere, one thing is certain: this celebration will remain etched in your memory and in your heart. Veracruz awaits you with open arms and a festive soul!
Source: meteored
