Every autumn, the state of Guanajuato, situated in the heart of Mexico, reveals the full richness of its cultural identity.
From the age-old celebrations of the Day of the Dead to the prestigious Cervantino International Festival (FIC), this destination in central Mexico offers travellers a unique experience where folk traditions and contemporary artistic creation come together.
Whilst Guanajuato captivates visitors all year round with its UNESCO World Heritage cities, vineyards, ‘Pueblos Mágicos’ (Magical Towns) and historical heritage, the months of October and November are undoubtedly one of the most fascinating times to discover the state. The streets are bursting with colour, the squares come alive with performances, and traditions are brought to life in an atmosphere that is both festive and deeply authentic.
The Cervantino International Festival: one of Latin America’s major cultural events
Every October, the city of Guanajuato, capital of the state of the same name, hosts the Cervantino International Festival (FIC), considered one of the most important cultural festivals in Latin America.
For several weeks, theatres, squares, museums and historic buildings become venues for an exceptional programme bringing together Mexican and international artists. Concerts, operas, dance performances, theatre, visual arts, literature, film and multidisciplinary events take over the whole city in a unique atmosphere.
Founded in the 1950s with the famous ‘Entremeses Cervantinos’, performed in the streets and squares of Guanajuato, the festival is today a true symbol of Mexico’s cultural openness.
Each edition showcases a guest country and a Mexican state, fostering a genuine dialogue between the world’s cultures and traditions. This year, France will be the guest of honour and will showcase its culture and heritage throughout the festival.
For European travellers, ‘the Cervantino’ offers a unique opportunity to discover the city of Guanajuato at its most vibrant, where historical heritage and contemporary creativity come together at every turn.
Cervantino International Festival – 54th edition 3–18 October
City of Guanajuato
The Day of the Dead: a living tradition at the heart of Mexico
A few days later, the state celebrates one of the country’s most iconic traditions: the Day of the Dead, which is included on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
In Guanajuato, this celebration goes far beyond the image of the famous colourful face-painting. In the state’s towns and villages, families set up altars decorated with cempasúchil flowers, candles, photographs and the favourite dishes of their departed loved ones, in order to honour their memory in a warm, family atmosphere.
Visitors can attend parades, concerts, art exhibitions and performances that celebrate this tradition, which is deeply rooted in Mexican culture. The historic streets of Guanajuato and San Miguel de Allende, as well as several ‘Pueblos Mágicos’ (Magical Towns), are transformed into authentic settings where art, flowers and lights pay tribute to past generations.
Far from being a sombre celebration, the Day of the Dead is, above all, a festival of remembrance, heritage and life, offering travellers an authentic and deeply moving cultural experience.
Day of the Dead Festivals
1–2 November
Guanajuato City and/or San Miguel de Allende
Two unmissable experiences to discover Guanajuato in a different light
Visiting the state of Guanajuato in autumn means experiencing two of the greatest expressions of Mexican identity. On the one hand, the International Cervantino Festival transforms the capital into a vast cultural stage open to the world; on the other, the Day of the Dead allows visitors to discover ancestral traditions that remain alive in local communities.
With its World Heritage sites, gastronomy, vineyards, charming villages and internationally renowned events, the state of Guanajuato confirms its place amongst Mexico’s must-visit cultural destinations.
An invitation to discover a region where art, history and traditions continue to be written in the present.
What is a ‘Pueblo Mágico’?
The ‘Pueblo Mágico’ designation is awarded by the Mexican government to those communities that have managed to preserve their traditions, history, culture and original architecture over time. The ‘Pueblos Mágicos’ are places steeped in symbolism and legends that allow visitors to discover and experience the essence of Mexico.
About GUANAJUATO
The state of Guanajuato enjoys a prime location and excellent transport links; it features unmissable destinations for anyone seeking to discover the essence of Mexico, offering visitors fascinating experiences: two cities designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, five major archaeological sites, six picturesque ‘Pueblos Mágicos’, exciting tourist routes and a packed calendar of large-scale cultural, musical and sporting events throughout the year. Without a doubt, Guanajuato is one of Mexico’s most well-rounded and fascinating states. Exploring Guanajuato means delving deep into the heart of Mexican identity. It means connecting with its historical past whilst also enjoying its authenticity, its vibrant cultural life and its exciting activities. Guanajuato is connected to Spain by air via Mexico City; and through Guanajuato International Airport, the state is linked to Dallas, Houston, Chicago and Los Angeles; it also connects to other major Mexican tourist destinations such as Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, San José del Cabo, Mérida and Monterrey, to name but a few. Furthermore, Guanajuato boasts excellent road links.
Further information: https://guanajuato.mx/en/
Source: METONYMIE