Posada de Santiago

Events and Culture


As a nation of communities that have gone from Mayan civilization, to colonial rule, to independence as a Republic, Guatemala has much to mourn, rejoice and remember. Visitors can often travel in a single day between vibrant outdoor markets, through colorful street festivals, and somber ceremonial rites.

Although Semana Santa (Easter Week, March 15-23) and the Nativity (All of December) are the best known celebrations, there is always something extraordinary taking place in Guatemala. A full Calendar of events, compiles from Frommers, centralamerica.com, and our own extensive familiarity with Guatemalan observed holiday and informal celebrations, is included below.

Calendar of Events


Guatemala - Lake Atitlan - Santiago Atitlan


Holidays by Month



January Black Christ celebrated on 15th in Esquipulas.
February Lent processions throughout Guatemala.
March/April Lent and Easter week processions throughout Guatemala.
Saints carried through streets, elaborate Catholic masses, local traditions.
Nightlife celebrations in Panajachel
May Day of the Cross celebrated at Lake Amatitlan on 2nd and 3rd
Jueves de Ascencion celebrated at Lae Chicaba on 9th
July Town fair in Antigua Guatemala on 25th
Rabin Ajau beauty pageant in Coban on 27th
August Our Lady of the Ascension celebrated in Guatemala City on 15th.
September 15th is National holiday to commemorate Guatemala's independence from Spain in 1821.
Largest holiday fair in Quetzaltenango.
October October 20th: "10 Years of Spring" celebrates overthrow of dictator Jorge Ubico
November All Saints Day, Nov 1st, is celebrated with unique traditions throughout Guatemala.
Giant kites are flown in the cemeteries of Santiago Sacatepequez and Sumpango for all Saints Day, Nov 1st.
A drunken horse race is held in Todos Santos Cuchumatan for All Saints Day, Nov 1st.
December Town fair dance and music in Chichicastenango on 21st
the 'Burning the Devil' celebration is held on the 7th in Cenvento Conception
Nativity scenes and processions across Guatemala


some text borrowed from Frommers and centralamerica.com