There is Always Something Marvelous Happening in Pátzcuaro
By Victoria Ryan, Owner & Host of Hotel Casa Encantada in Pátzcuaro
There is almost always something marvelous happening in the Pátzcuaro area. It is always unforgettable to grab a great tour guide like Jaime Balderas of Animecha Tours and learn about the history and archeology of this area which is so rich in culture and folk art. I say we are an undiscovered Oaxaca. Go see the Artesanos in their homes. Each Pueblo has a specialty and many have world-famous artisans working as they have for thousands of years. Visit the world’s newest Volcano at Paricutin.
We celebrate everything, all the Saints Days plus Corn, Salsa, Geraniums, Orchids, Pears, and on and on! Not kidding here. Here are a few thoughts.
January – Three Kings Day is big! This is a tradition to celebrate when the three Kings find Baby Jesus and give Him the gifts. This is also the day when Mexican children receive their gifts traditionally.
March & April are lovely and warm. Semana Santa (Easter) falls during this time. It is celebrated here in a classic way with Processions and Passion plays. Palm Sunday is always beautiful and the Plaza Grande is adorned to show the devotion of the people.
May & June are a time to celebrate Abundance in the Pre-Hispanic/Catholic blend that works so well here. Corpus Christi is a marvelous Fiesta celebrated in every Pueblo.
July is International Cantoya Festival (giant hot air paper balloons from all over the world).
August is the Copper Festival in nearby Santa Clara del Cobre and the Guitar Festival in Paracho.
September is called Fiestas Patrias because the Revolution and Independence are celebrated. In Pátzcuaro, they also celebrate the founding of the city.
October is the International Film Festival in Morelia, the Capula Catrina Fiesta, and the Feast of Christ the King (an awesome experience on the last Sunday of October).
November is the Day of the Dead
December 12th begins the period of the year known to locals as Guadalupe Reyes. It is a joke because it is one party after another for an entire month. On December 12th the town celebrates Mary, the Virgin of Guadalupe. Then Dec 16-24 are the Posadas (Mary and Joseph looking for a manger). Then Christmas, New Year’s, and Three Kings Day on Jan 6th.
Come and discover us!
