Events & Festivals in Guatemala

National public holiday celebrating the new year. Families gather for meals, and at midnight, cities erupt with fireworks, people burn effigies (monigotes), and many follow the tradition of carrying empty suitcases around the block to ensure a year of travel.

Celebration of the Virgin of Candelaria, particularly significant in Cobán, Alta Verapaz. Features religious processions, traditional dances like the 'Baile de los Moros', and the blessing of seeds and candles for the coming agricultural year. A blend of Maya Q'eqchi' and Catholic rituals.

One of Guatemala's largest and most colorful carnivals before Lent. Known for its spectacular parades with elaborate floats, costumed dancers, marching bands, and the throwing of 'cascarones' (confetti-filled eggshells). A week-long party with concerts and cultural events.

The most spectacular event in Guatemala. Antigua Guatemala is world-famous for its breathtaking, solemn processions with massive floats (andas) carried by hundreds, intricate alfombras (sawdust carpets), and profound religious fervor. A unique and unforgettable cultural experience.

Celebrates Guatemala's world-renowned coffee in the heart of the Fraijanes Plateau. Features coffee tastings (cuppings), barista competitions, farm tours, live music, and local gastronomy. A must for coffee enthusiasts to learn about the bean-to-cup process.

National public holiday with marches and rallies organized by workers' unions and social movements, primarily in Guatemala City. A day of political and social expression. Most businesses and government offices are closed.

A Catholic feast celebrated with special vigor in Patzún, Chimaltenango. The town creates stunning, long-lasting alfombras of flowers, seeds, and dyed sawdust. A religious procession passes over them, and traditional dances are performed in the main square.

Not to be confused with the December fair, this is the actual feast day in Chichicastenango. It features traditional dances like the 'Baile de la Conquista', music, and religious ceremonies, offering a slightly more intimate glimpse into local traditions.

A celebration of Guatemalan music in all its forms, from classical and marimba to contemporary pop and rock. Held at the National Theater, it features concerts, competitions, workshops, and talks with prominent national musicians and composers.

A major international marathon that draws elite and amateur runners from across Central America. The course winds through the capital's main avenues and parks. Includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K races, fostering a city-wide athletic spirit.

Antigua Guatemala's annual fair, originally honoring the Virgin of the Assumption. Features amusement park rides, food stalls, live concerts, games, and the famous 'Desfile de la Hípica' (horse parade). A lively, family-friendly event with a local feel.

Celebrates independence from Spain in 1821. Nationwide celebrations include school parades, civic acts, the traditional 'Antorcha' (torch relay) run from Honduras, concerts, and fireworks. Buildings are adorned with blue and white flags and decorations.

Guatemala's premier professional road cycling race, attracting national and international teams. The multi-stage race covers challenging and scenic routes across the country, from highland climbs to coastal stretches. A major event for sports fans.

A culinary showcase celebrating Guatemala's diverse cuisine. Top chefs from Antigua and beyond offer tasting menus, cooking demonstrations, and workshops. Highlights include traditional dishes reimagined, craft beer and coffee pairings, and a focus on local, sustainable ingredients.

A unique All Saints' Day tradition in Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepéquez. Enormous, intricate kites (barriletes), some over 20 meters wide, are crafted and flown. The kites carry messages to the deceased and symbolize the connection between the living and the dead.

Guatemala's premier jazz event, attracting top national and international artists. Concerts are held in intimate venues and larger theaters, featuring a range of jazz styles from traditional to fusion. Includes workshops and jam sessions for aspiring musicians.

A profound tradition where families honor deceased loved ones. They clean and decorate graves with flowers (especially yellow marigolds), bring offerings of food (fiambre), and spend the night in cemeteries. Santiago Sacatepéquez and Todos Santos Cuchumatán are particularly notable.

Chichicastenango's most famous festival, blending Maya and Catholic traditions. Expect the famous 'Palo Volador' (flying pole dance), marimba music, processions in stunning traje, fireworks, and a massive market. The central event is the convite, a colorful parade with elaborate costumes and masks.

A festive seasonal market held on select nights in Antigua Guatemala's Parque Central. Local artisans sell handicrafts, Christmas decorations, textiles, and gifts. The atmosphere is merry with twinkling lights, seasonal music, and traditional holiday foods like ponche and buñuelos.

Celebrated with midnight Mass (Misa de Gallo), family dinners featuring tamales and ponche, and fireworks at midnight on the 24th. Antigua and Guatemala City have elaborate nativity scenes (Nacimientos) and Christmas markets. The holiday season runs through early January.