Discover the Vibrant Festivals and Celebrations of Guatemala
Guatemala is a land of color, tradition, and celebration. Its diverse culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect setting for unforgettable events. Whether you’re drawn to spiritual ceremonies, cultural fiestas, or thrilling adventures, there’s always something to captivate your heart. Here’s an enticing guide to Guatemala’s most alluring holidays, festivals, and events that will make you want to pack your bags right away!
January
New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo)
- Date: January 1
- Location: Nationwide
Kick off the year with vibrant fireworks, lively gatherings, and a festive atmosphere that fills every corner of Guatemala.
Rabinal Achí Dance Drama
- Date: January 25 (Feast of San Pablo)
- Location: Rabinal
Immerse yourself in this UNESCO-recognized Maya dance-drama, a rare pre-Hispanic tradition that tells stories of dynastic history and cultural heritage.
February
Wajxaqib’ B’atz’ (Maya New Year)
- Date: February 21 (approximate, based on the Maya calendar)
- Location: Indigenous Maya communities
Witness sacred rituals that welcome the new calendar cycle, offering spiritual seekers an authentic connection to ancient traditions.
International Jazz Festival
- Date: February–March (dates vary)
- Location: Guatemala City and other major cities
Enjoy world-class performances by international and local jazz artists in elegant venues and cultural hubs.
March & April
Holy Week (Semana Santa)
- Date: Variable (March or April, depending on Easter)
- Location: Antigua Guatemala (most famous)
Antigua transforms into a living work of art with its stunning sawdust carpets (“alfombras”) and grand processions. For a more tranquil experience, visit San Juan la Laguna or San Pedro la Laguna on Lake Atitlán, where local families create intricate carpets and heartfelt ceremonies unfold.
Maximón Festivities
- Date: Throughout the year, with special prominence during Holy Week
- Location: Santiago Atitlán, Zunil, and other villages
Experience ceremonies dedicated to Maximón, a fascinating folk saint venerated for protection and blessings.
April
Fair of San Marcos La Laguna
- Date: Around April 25
- Location: San Marcos La Laguna
Celebrate a week of vibrant activities, including traditional dances, music concerts, carnival rides, and fireworks in this charming lakeside town.
May
Ascension Day
- Date: May 9
- Location: Lake Chicabal
Witness an awe-inspiring spiritual ritual on the sacred shores of this highland crater lake, featuring traditional music, incense, and floral offerings.
July
Antigua Fair (Fiesta de Santiago)
- Date: July 25
- Location: Antigua Guatemala
Enjoy a mix of carnival rides, folkloric dances, and joyous processions celebrating Saint James, the town’s patron saint.
Cobán Folkloric Festival
- Date: Last week of July
- Location: Cobán
Dive into the heart of Maya culture with traditional art, local dances, and the prestigious Rabin Ajau competition, where women compete for the title of “Maya Princess.”
November
All Saints’ Day & Giant Kite Festival
- Date: November 1
- Location: Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepéquez
Marvel at massive, colorful kites soaring above cemeteries, believed to guide the souls of the departed back to the living.
Festival of Flowers (Festival de las Flores)
- Date: November (dates vary)
- Location: Antigua Guatemala
Revel in floral artistry, colorful parades, and the enchanting beauty of Antigua’s cobblestone streets adorned with blossoms.
Garífuna Settlement Day
- Date: November 26
- Location: Livingston
Celebrate Garífuna culture with pulsating drum beats, vibrant parades, Punta dancing, and mouthwatering Caribbean specialties.
December
Quema del Diablo (Burning of the Devil)
- Date: December 7
- Location: Nationwide
Join locals in burning effigies of the devil to cleanse homes and start the holiday season with renewed energy.
Feast of Santo Tomás
- Date: December 13–21
- Location: Chichicastenango
This thrilling mix of Maya and Christian traditions includes fireworks, processions, and the breathtaking Palo Volador dance, where men descend from a 30-meter pole in a spiral of daring grace.
Christmas (Navidad)
- Date: December 25
- Location: Nationwide
Experience the magic of Christmas Eve with midnight fireworks, festive tamales, and family feasts.
Lake Atitlán Regattas
- Date: Variable (mostly spring or early summer)
- Location: Lake Atitlán
Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy water sports and eco-tourism events in one of the world’s most picturesque settings.
Guatemala is more than a destination—it’s a journey of the heart, mind, and soul. Whether you’re looking to connect with ancient traditions, ignite your creativity, or simply unwind amidst breathtaking scenery, Guatemala welcomes you with open arms. Ready to experience the magic? Contact us today to book your rental property and make your Guatemalan adventure unforgettable!