Festivals and Traditions in Ajijic: Yearly Events Guide

Ajijic: A Town Where Tradition Lives on Every Street

Ajijic celebrates all year—from the New Year’s Parade and Carnival to the Balloon Regatta, Day of the Dead, and Saint Andrew’s Festival. In this guide, you’ll find Ajijic’s most important festivals and traditions by date, plus what to expect at each one so you can plan the best time to visit.

What makes these celebrations special is that they’re deeply local. They’re organized by neighbors, families, and community groups—not tourism boards—so everything feels authentic: music in the plaza, shared food, candlelit processions, and generations coming together to keep traditions alive.

Stay close to it all—book your stay at Hotel Casa Blanca Ajijic and experience Ajijic’s festivals from the heart of town.

Quick Calendar (Month → Event)

Celebrations That Bring Ajijic to Life

New Year’s Parade – January 1st

Ajijic kicks off the year with a joyful parade organized by the neighborhoods of Las Seis Esquinas and La Villa. It’s a colorful, energetic start that sets the tone for the months to come.

Three Kings Day – January 6th

Families gather in the main plaza to enjoy the traditional Rosca de Reyes sweet bread, piñatas, candy, and gifts. It’s a magical moment for children and adults alike.

San Sebastián Day – January 20th

Although San Andrés is the town’s main patron saint, the San Sebastián neighborhood honors its own with a lively procession and an all-night celebration.

Carnival & the Sayacos – February/March

The day before Ash Wednesday, a parade takes over the streets featuring floats, music, and the famous Sayacos—men in exaggerated costumes who toss flour at the crowd. It’s wild, fun, and unforgettable.

Live Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis) – Holy Week

One of the most moving events in Mexico. Locals act out the Passion of Christ from the church to the mountains, with powerful performances, detailed costumes, and deep devotion.

Holy Cross Day – May 3rd

Homes are decorated with colorful crosses, paper banners, fruit, traditional foods, and offerings—an example of faith expressed through beauty.

Ajijic Balloon Regata – Saturday before September 15th

Giant handmade tissue-paper balloons are released into the sky, filling the air with color and excitement. It’s one of Ajijic’s most creative and beloved traditions.

Rebozo Parade in Ajijic – September

The Rebozo Parade in Ajijic brings music, color, and culture to life each September in the heart of town. A true celebration of tradition.

Day of the Charro – September 14th

Charros (Mexican cowboys) parade through the streets on horseback and end with rodeo events, games, and live music in the town’s Lienzo Charro arena.

Mexican Independence Day – September 15th

An evening filled with children’s games, mariachi bands, and the traditional “Grito de Independencia” in the plaza. It’s a true Mexican celebration, full of pride and joy.

Independence Day Parade – September 16th

Local schools and community groups march through town, showing their patriotic spirit and respect for Mexican history.

Day of the Virgin of the Rosary – October 31st

A candlelit procession, fireworks, and a festive fair in the main plaza honor the Virgin with community and color.

Day of the Dead – November 2nd

Altars, traditional Catrina costumes, live music, and a nighttime procession from the cemetery to the boardwalk. This heartfelt celebration honors ancestors with beauty and soul.

Saint Andrew’s Festival (Fiesta Patronal) – November 21–30

Nine days of celebration for Ajijic’s patron saint with fireworks, processions, music, dancing, and traditional food. The whole town takes part.

Christmas Posadas – December 17–24

Each night reenacts the journey of Mary and Joseph, with piñatas, caroling, and community gatherings. On December 24th, the celebration ends with nativity displays in the plaza and church.

Read more about Christmas Posadas…

The Heart of Ajijic: Its People

What makes Ajijic’s festivals truly special is not the size or scale, but the heart behind them. These events aren’t organized by corporations or the government—they’re made possible by locals who give their time, energy, and love. Entire families spend weeks preparing altars, cooking traditional dishes, and making costumes.

Each celebration is a reflection of Ajijic’s spirit: joyful, generous, and deeply proud of its roots.

FAQs About Festivals and Traditions in Ajijic

What is the best time to visit Ajijic for festivals?

Fall is festival-heavy (Balloon Regatta, Day of the Dead, Saint Andrew’s Fiesta). Winter brings Posadas and New Year celebrations, plus comfortable weather for walking.

Do festival dates in Ajijic change every year?

Some dates are fixed (Jan 1, Jan 6), but others shift (Carnival, Holy Week) or follow “the Saturday before” patterns—confirm locally as your trip approaches.

Where do most festivals happen in Ajijic?

Many celebrations center around the main plaza and church, with key events also happening near the malecón/boardwalk and local neighborhoods.

Are Ajijic festivals family-friendly?

Most are, especially daytime parades and plaza events. For late-night fireworks, plan with kids in mind and bring ear protection if needed.

What should I wear for festivals in Ajijic?

Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, light layers for evenings, and sun protection for daytime parades.

Experience the Spirit of Ajijic

If you’re planning to walk along the Malecón or looking for authentic places to visit in Ajijic, try to come during one of these festive times. You’ll enjoy more than just beautiful views—you’ll take part in a cultural experience that stays with you long after your trip ends.

Book your stay at Hotel Casa Blanca Ajijic and immerse yourself in the magic of a town where every celebration comes straight from the heart.