Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Independencia
September 15-16. This celebration of Mexican independence includes flag-waving, traditional costumes, rousing music, folk dancing, and fireworks. On the 15th, go to the Zócalo or the main square of Coyoacán at 11 p.m. to see the President of Mexico City reenact the 1910 church bell call for the people to rise up against their Spanish rulers. The 16th, Independence Day, is a national holiday. Most businesses are closed but there is a major parade in the center city.
Festival del Centro Histórico
Early spring. “Look out for the events that are free and open in the Zócalo.”—Jim Young, freelance arts correspondent, The News. The heart of the old city explodes with street theater, gastronomy, big name singers and concerts, dance, and spectacular art exhibitions. www.festival.org.mx
Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Festival of the Virgin)
December 11-12. Pilgrims come from all over the world to pay homage to the Virgin of Guadalupe, Patron Saint of Mexico, at her Basílica in the north of the city. Conchero and indigenous dancing fills the square from the morning of the 11th and continues all through the night until the next evening.
Día de Muertos
November 1-2. City Hall pulls out all the stops for this ancient ritual in remembrance of the dead, so head to the Zócalo for events and exquisite decoration during the first two days of November. The Panteón de Dolores in the northwest of the city is one of the best graveyards for the adornment of tombs on the night of November 1st and the morning of the 2nd.
