_edited.png)
Antigua’s Festivals — Plan Your Trip Around These Cultural Events
- Jessica Seiders
- Jan 16
- 6 min read
Updated: Feb 20
One of the first things people think of when they hear Antigua, Guatemala is the stunning old churches and rich culture. And while this is true, few know that Antigua is very much alive–buzzing with color, music, and excitement, especially during one of its many festivals.
From sacred processions that date back centuries to lively street parties full of music and dance, Antigua’s festivals offer a unique way to dive into the heart of Guatemalan culture.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or planning a fun group trip (shoutout to all the adventurous women out there!), Antigua's festivals will give you an unforgettable experience.
So, let’s dive into some of the most exciting cultural events that you’ll definitely want to plan your trip around.
Why Plan Your Visit Around Antigua's Festivals?
Well, there’s one good reason why visiting during Antigua’s festivals is a must. Just imagine the beautiful cobblestone streets decorated with colorful flowers, towering effigies, and stunning decor. All around, traditional music plays while the smell of delicious local food wafts in the air. It’s truly an atmosphere unlike any other you’ll experience. And it’s all a part of Antigua’s distinct cultural charm.
By seeing these festivals in person, you’re more than just observing from the sidelines, you’re taking part in local tradition and experiencing the town’s history.
Not to mention, you get to bond with local Antiguans in a way that’s more than just hopping from one tourist attraction to another.
Experiencing Antigua’s festivals means you’re in for an authentic and immersive experience, like feeling the heartbeat of the city.
Major Festivals in Antigua
Semana Santa (Holy Week) – The Mother of All Festivals (March/APRIL)
Let’s start with the big one—Semana Santa, or Holy Week.
Got room to attend just one festival in Antigua? Then plan your trip around this one. It usually takes place in March or April, depending on when Easter falls, and it’s a truly spectacular event.
The streets are filled with large processions where locals dress in robes and carry religious statues, but what sets this festival apart are the intricate alfombras (flower and sawdust carpets) that line the streets.
These alfombras are painstakingly created by local families, often overnight, and are meant to honor the religious significance of the occasion. Everything is done by hand and it’s a true labor of love.
Some are breathtakingly elaborate, with colorful patterns that stretch across blocks. The processions, with their solemn but festive atmosphere, are an incredible sight, and there’s nothing quite like walking through the streets of Antigua while the procession moves slowly along the cobblestones.
Tips for Visitors:
Book early: This is a major event, so accommodations fill up fast. Make sure you reserve your spot well in advance.
Arrive early: If you want a good spot for the processions, get there early in the morning or late at night, depending on when the events are happening.
Respect the traditions: Holy Week is a religious occasion, so while it’s okay to enjoy the festivities, make sure to dress modestly and be respectful of local customs.
Día de Santiago (Saint James’ Day) – A Patron Saint’s Party (July 25th)
Día de Santiago is Antigua’s celebration of its patron saint, Saint James. While it doesn’t get as much international attention as Semana Santa, it’s a huge deal in Antigua.
Expect to see lively processions, colorful costumes, dancing, and even some traditional folk performances. There are also local fairs where you can pick up handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and, of course, tasty treats like tamalitos and empanadas.
Tips for Visitors:
Get involved: You’ll feel more connected to the experience if you join the celebrations. Don’t be shy about clapping along to the music or chatting with the locals!
Explore the markets: The fair is a perfect opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs and experience authentic Guatemalan craftsmanship.
Independence Day – The Ultimate Patriotic Celebration (September 15th)
This is Guatemala’s Independence Day, and Antigua is one of the best places to experience this national holiday. The entire city turns out for a massive celebration, complete with colorful parades, marching bands, and fireworks that light up the sky.
Expect to be enveloped by the sounds of marimba music, the national instrument of Guatemala, and the sight of local students and citizens marching proudly through the streets. It’s a day of true national pride and it’s a fantastic way to experience the joy and energy of Guatemalan culture.
Tips for Visitors:
Participate in the torch run: This is a national tradition where a torch is passed from town to town. It’s a great way to get involved and meet locals.
Enjoy the food: Independence Day means special dishes like fiambre, a traditional salad that’s eaten during the celebrations. Be sure to try it!
Día de los Muertos & All Saints’ Day – A Celebration of Life and Death (November 1st & 2nd)
November 1st and 2nd are the days when Guatemalans celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and All Saints’ Day.
This is a deeply moving festival where families honor their deceased loved ones by decorating graves with flowers, lighting candles, and preparing food to share with the spirits of the departed. While this celebration is solemn in nature, it’s also filled with beauty and tradition.
If you’re in Antigua during these days, don’t miss the incredible Giant Kite Festival held in nearby Santiago Sacatepéquez and Sumpango.
Here, massive kites (sometimes over 20 feet wide) are flown to guide the spirits to the afterlife. It’s a stunning spectacle, and it’s one of the most unique celebrations in Guatemala.
Tips for Visitors:
Visit the cemeteries: You’re welcome to join in the celebration by visiting the local cemeteries and seeing how families celebrate.
Attend the kite festival: It’s a short trip from Antigua, and it’s a visual feast for the eyes. Be sure to snap some photos!
La Quema del Diablo (The Burning of the Devil) – A Fiery Tradition (December 7th)
Visiting Antigua in December? Make sure to stay for La Quema del Diablo or the Burning of the Devil. This unique Antiguan festival marks the start of the Christmas season.
The tradition involves burning effigies of the devil, symbolizing the purification of the community before the festive season begins.
While it sounds a bit intense, the event is filled with joy and community spirit. The streets light up with bonfires, music, and dancing as locals come together to celebrate the end of the year’s struggles and welcome the holidays with open arms.
Tips for Visitors:
Join the celebrations: Be sure to check out the bonfires, but remember to be careful around the flames!
Enjoy the festive vibe: This is the perfect time to try some warm, holiday treats like ponche de fruta, a fruity punch served during the holidays.
Lesser-Known Festivals Worth Experiencing
While the big festivals are the headliners, Antigua also boasts a few lesser-known events worth attending. These festivals might not have the same massive crowds, but they offer a chance to dive deeper into local culture.
Fiesta de Santo Tomás (December 21st): This celebration features the famous Palo Volador (flying pole dance), where dancers climb a 100-foot pole and perform acrobatic feats while dangling from ropes. It’s an adrenaline-pumping event that’s as thrilling as it is visually stunning.
Rabin Ajau National Folkloric Festival (Late July to early August): This festival celebrates indigenous culture with traditional music, dance, and rituals. It’s an opportunity to witness the rich heritage of Guatemala’s indigenous communities firsthand.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Arrive Early: If you want to be at the heart of the action, arrive early to secure the best spots for viewing parades and processions.
Respect Local Customs: While it’s a time for celebration, remember that many festivals, especially religious ones, hold deep meaning for the locals. Dress modestly and be respectful of traditions.
Taste the Local Cuisine: Each festival offers its own unique dishes, so be sure to sample local foods. From fiambre to rellenitos, the culinary experience is just as important as the festivities.
Get Involved: Festivals in Antigua are all about community, so don’t be afraid to join in the dancing, singing, or parade-watching. The locals will appreciate your enthusiasm!
Why Antigua’s Festivals Are Unmissable
Antigua is a city where culture, history, and community come together in the most exciting ways. Whether you're witnessing a religious procession, participating in a patriotic parade, or flying a giant kite, these festivals offer something you won’t find anywhere else.
For women traveling in groups or solo, these events provide a fantastic opportunity to connect with locals, learn about Guatemalan traditions, and create unforgettable memories.
Traveling Women Official encourages all women to visit Antigua, Guatemala, and immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural landscape. Join our upcoming tour here!
So pack your bags, grab your besties (or embrace new friendships on the road), and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
-----
About Jessica Seiders (Founder of Traveling Women Official)
After her daughter left for college, Jessica Seiders sold everything and set off on a journey of self-discovery, leading her to create Traveling Women Official—a community empowering women to explore, embrace new adventures, and reinvent themselves.
Through relocation coaching and her book, she helps women confidently start fresh and build a life of adventure.
Comentarios