Three important celebrations and cultural events you must experience when you travel to Mexico
We believe that one of the most incredible things about being Mexican is that we have so many celebrations a year. We just can’t get enough of the party. Important dates represent a legacy from our ancestors and an opportunity to spend time with the people close to us. If you are a person who is still not familiar with our culture, we think you will want to travel to Mexico during these dates to experience the majesty of our celebrations: Day of the Dead – November 1 & 2 Very few people have not heard of our famous Day of the Dead. This date is perhaps the one that draws the most attention from travelers because it is a solemn time of year, but with traditions throughout the country. The influence of the Aztec empire can still be felt in different Mexican festivities and traditions, and their respect and love for those who have passed away created the modern Day of the Dead tradition. We believe that the dead are still among us, and the city is filled with marigold flowers and altars with photos of our deceased loved ones, accompanied by candles and offerings. Paseo de la Reforma comes alive with the fantastic Day of the Dead parade, an event not to be missed if you visit Mexico City at this time of the year. La Guelaguetza – Mid July. The Guelaguetza is a celebration that takes place in the city of Oaxaca that began as a ritual performed for the gods in pre-Hispanic times. At dawn on the first Day of the Guelaguetza, the chirimiteros (music bands) play the mañanitas in various temples of Oaxaca. The local people take it as a signal to go to the emblematic Cerro del Fortin, where the whole celebration occurs. Nowadays, it is a celebration that lasts for days, with plenty of food and drinks and activities for all ages. Las Posadas – Mid to late December Spending Christmas in another country is lovely, especially if it is like in Mexico where, in addition to the traditional dinner, we enjoy previous celebrations such as the posadas. The posadas are a series of festivities that have been held in Mexico since colonial times. The Posadas represent the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary on their way to Bethlehem. They are religious in nature, but for those who want to enjoy the party, the guava punch, the traditional piñata and the romeritos are the perfect combination for an enjoyable time.
Celebrations of Mexican national holidays and new traditions in every part of the country
Mexico is a land of contrasts with strong cultural and religious ties. Visitors who look around are rewarded with a constant parade of “Mexican Moments” that reveal both new and old Mexico. Mexicans like to celebrate, and the younger generations, in their quest to preserve traditions get a little creative to satisfy their festive needs. As we are already in September and some of us are vaccinated, some of us have come up with ideas to make this celebration different. It seems that the word «different» is still in our system, mainly because we all know that we are still in the process of adaptation. That being so, what’s new for Independence Day? Many young people will take advantage of the long holiday weekend to go out of town. Some visit their relatives and others organize a get-together and a party that could last up to three days. Now, we all know that Mexicans enjoy celebrations. However, it is true that, unlike older people, young people prefer to spend September 15 with friends… and not so much with their families. Nevertheless, the pride of being Mexican does not seem to disappear. New generations may not be as excited about learning to prepare elaborate dishes such as pozole. Still, they do carry with them an identity that makes them proud. For example, Mexican-themed tattoos have become increasingly popular, such as lottery cards, a Frida Kahlo painting, or even Huichol art designs. We are talking about unconventional traditions that also express a deep love for Mexico. One thing we have also noticed is that many people prefer practicality. Instead of cooking for hours and preparing drinks, people are better off going to restaurants that offer the same atmosphere. Some establishments even hire mariachis for a few evening hours. Either way, everyone will have a great time singing Luis Miguel or Juan Gabriel’s classics. The best part is, these activities also save on cleanup. Finally, something that is not so new but is becoming more popular is the meetings in bars and terraces, such as the one we have at FlowSuites Condesa. We can adjust it to perfection for you to enjoy the open space with a seasonal cocktail. If you are one of those who prefer meetings with more intimate people, this is the perfect option for you. Contact us to personalize your event.
What to do in Mexico City during January 2020
Hello 2020! There’s nothing better than starting the year knowing what to do, what to visit and where to eat. If you are visiting Mexico City on January, we will give you the best things to experience so you have the most wonderful time. January is a great month to visit Mexico City. You can get to know many places and visit monuments without worrying about large crowds (it’s the low season). In addition, traffic is very relaxed and the weather is ideal, maybe a bit cold, but in general very pleasant. Get ready to have a great time with the activities you can do this month. Hurry up! The Möet Chandon pop up store will be up until January 2nd at the Palacio de Palacios in Polanco. Here you’ll find the best bottles and you can customize them with gold leaves, make Christmas cards, buy boxes of chocolates or bouquets. You can also monogram your initials, write a message or whatever you want on your bottles. Where: On the ground floor of El Palacio de Hierro in Polanco, Moliere 222, until January 2nd, 2020. This month you can still enjoy the Broadway hit Chicago in Spanish. It isone of the most acclaimed Broadway musicals and is taking the critics by storm. It is ending at the beginning of February and it has been a total success, so if you have not seen it we assure you that it will be a great experience. Where: Find your tickets here. Until February 2 at the Telcel Theater. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra # 386. The ice rink in the Zócalo in the city’s downtown will be running until January 6th. You just have to see the ecological synthetic ice rink and the Christmas festival with lights and the Christmas tree. Enjoy the disco nights with mariachis, cumbia, salsa and rancheras. Where: Find schedules here. until January 6 in the Zocalo. SEVENTEEN, the K-pop group with 13 members from Korea, China and the United States will come for the first time to Mexico on January 17th. If you want to know a little more about this musical genre that became so popular, this concert is a great option. Where: At the Palacio de los Deportes at 20:30. Granjas México. Find tickets here. On January 22nd, the National Auditorium presents Playa Limbo, a Mexican pop group that sings in Spanish with a jazz influence. If you know the style of groups like Presuntos Implicados or Belanova you’ll know what to expect.. If you want to go to dinner before, we recommend the Karisma bar that has good food, an excellent atmosphere and is a few blocks from the Auditorium. Where: In the National Auditorium (Auditorio Nacional) at 20:30. Karisma Bar, Campos Elíseos# 219. Visit the Tamale Fair in Coyoacán. National and international producers with more than 100 varieties of tamales will be there for you to try everything. You can pair them up with traditional atole, Mexican hot chocolate, champurrado or coffee. Where: From January 30th to February 3rd. In the National Museum of Popular Cultures. Miguel Hidalgo # 289. Visit The Two Fridas in the Museum of Modern Art. This work is one of the most recognized pieces of this Mexican painter and this exhibition shows documents, works and photographs that illustrate the influence that Marcel Duchamp and the French capital had on Frida Kahlo. The exhibition also includes Marcel Duchamp’s visit to Mexico City and his encounter with one of Frida’s students. It is an exhibition of Las Dos Fridas and the influence of these two cities in her work. Where: At the Museum of Modern Art, Paseo de la Reforma s / n until January 2020. Patrick Watson will be at Plaza Condesa on January 31st promoting his new Wave album. This singer and composer of the Indie Pop genre has composed songs for soundtracks in series such as Grey’s Anatomy, American Idol, Heaven and The Blacklist. Surely you’ve already heard one or two songs of his. This show promises to be a great experience for any music lover. Do not miss it! Where: In Plaza Condesa, Juan Escutia # 4 at 21:30. Find tickets here. At FlowSuites we will be happy to host you so that you can experience Mexico to the fullest. Book your trip at www.flowsuites.com or visit our social networks to find out about the best offers and promotions. If you prefer, you can contact us by WhatsApp at +52 1 55 7989 3074, we will be happy to help you.
The best Christmas activities in Mexico City
Don’t wait for Santa Claus, Mexico City has lots of Christmas activities that you can do if you are visiting at this time. Remember these are things that you can only do once a year in winter, so don’t waste your time and take advantage of it all. The Christmas season in any big city is lots of fun; everyone is in a good mood, people are about to go on vacation and fun cultural activities are everywhere. Enjoy this time in Mexico City and if you are here to visit, don’t miss all these options. There is something for everyone. What are you waiting for? The Nutcracker This is the classic Christmas story that enchants every audience. This Christmas the National Auditorium will have performances featuring Mexico’s National Dance company and the Orchestra of the Theater of Fine Arts will be in charge of the music. See it at: the National Auditorium of the CDMX. Tickets start at $ 230 pesos. When: December 18th-23th, 2019. Ice skating The traditional ice rink in Mexico City returns this year at the Zócalo. You will find it just in front of the majestic Cathedral in Mexico’s downtown where you’ll enjoy free skating. This year the city’s government decided on a greener option: acrylic. It is much cheaper to maintain because it does not use the electricity emissions that also harm the environment, it feels the same as skating on ice and the same skates can be used. It is a unique experience for sure. Find it in: Zócalo at CDMX’s downtown, but be attentive because this year the track is movable and may be going to other parts of the city. When: as of December 15th, 2019. Christmas Folkloric Ballet It is a show that features Amalia Hernandez’s Folkloric Ballet. It is definitely a must-see on Christmas. The show is called “Christmas in Mexico” and is a tribute that is divided into three acts in which the ‘posadas’ or traditional Mexican Christmas parties, nativity scenes and ‘pastorelas’ or Christmas performances are commemorated; three of the most popular Mexican traditions. The dancers are experts who will not disappoint you; without doubt this is an event that you can not miss. Amalia Hernández’s ballet stands out because it features dances and performances from different Mexican cultures and traditions, many call it «a living museum». Experience it in: Chapultepec Castle. Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, 11100 tickets may cost up to $ 750. When : from December 25th to January 5th, 2020. Magical Christmas Only in Mexico City can you come across such a different plan. If you are a Harry Potter fan, transport yourself to the Triwizard Tournament and get into your best clothes to attend the Harry Potter-themed Christmas dance. At this place’s Incantatum bar you will be able to dance under the charm of this children’s story, participate in the cash prizes for the best dancing couple, drink a lot of butter beer and enjoy the live DJ. Tickets are already on sale. Find them here. Find it at: Bar Incantatum, Rev. 107 Revolution. Tickets cost $ 250. When: December 19th, 2019 from 8:00 p.m. Christmas Eve in Xochimilco If you want to experience a ‘pastorela’ you have to attend this one in Xochimilco for an unforgettable experience. Start the tour on a trajinera (traditional boat) in the Xochimilco canals at night until you reach an illuminated pier. There you can enjoy a fun ‘pastorela’ for the whole family, an entire illuminated Christmas town, a nativity scene and a 5-meter Christmas tree, all illuminated with more than 200 colored lights. Later that night there will be a light show, many Mexican snacks to calm your hunger, games and souvenirs. It is a perfect event to get to know the trajineras and see Xochimilco’s channels by night, which is a completely different experience. Experience it at: Embarcadero Caltongo, Av. Nuevo León S / N. The cost per person is $ 300. When: December 20th, 21st and 22nd, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. If you want to live the Mexican Christmas experience, don’t hesitate and stay with us at FlowSuites. We have hotels in Polanco, Condesa and WTC, surely one of our locations will be perfect for your plans. Look for offers and promotions on our website www.flowsuites.com or contact us by WhatsApp at +52 1 55 7989 3074. We’ll be glad to help you.
Guadalupe-Reyes marathon. Discover this very Mexican way of celebrating in December
Mexican culture is full of tradition and rituals during December. Find all about them here so you don’t miss any and can participate in the now famous Guadalupe – Reyes marathon. In the 1990s, the Mexican government implemented the Guadalupe – Reyes operation, which consisted of deploying police forces around the city from December 12th, Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, until January 6th, Day of the Three Wise Men, to support security and surveillance. From that date forward, the name of this “marathon” stuck, and now it refers to all the festivities we celebrate from the Day of the Virgin until January 6th. This period is very important in Mexico because it marks the moment that all of the Christmas celebrations in Mexico begin. • December 12th, Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Thousands of pilgrims advance to La Villa to thank the Mexican Virgin. Masses are also celebrated throughout the city and pilgrimages occur from many cities. • December 16th – The Christmas posadas or parties officially begin. They are traditional festivals with rituals such as hitting piñatas, exchanging gifts, asking for a place to stay for the night, lulling baby Jesus and eating and drinking delicious meals. They begin on December 16th because, according to Catholic accounts, it took Mary nine days to get from Nazareth to Bethlehem to give birth. That is why nine posadas are held before the last one is celebrated on December 24th. • December 24th – Christmas Eve (or the last posada). Here the birth of Jesus is celebrated: Joseph and Mary arriving to their destination and surviving their enemies thanks to the kindness of those who helped them on their way. It is a night for a family dinner, sharing moments, praying and making a toast at midnight, which is when Christmas officially begins. •December 25th – Christmas. This day people do not work in Mexico and they enjoy it with their family. Traditionally it is when gifts are given (or sometimes on the 24th at midnight). The typical recalentado or leftovers from the night before are warmed up and enjoyed even more. • December 28th – Day of the Innocent. This celebration refers to all the children that King Herod killed in fear of being dethroned. In Mexico it is a day that is celebrated as the equivalent of April Fool’s in the United States for the innocent children that are easily deceived. A very recurring joke is that people borrow money on this date, so be careful! If you lend it that day, they will not return it to you. • December 31st – New Year’s Eve. This day usually makes for a great celebration. A banquet is served to say goodbye to the old year and the sound of 12 bell-strokes at midnight announces the new year. 12 grapes are eaten along with champagne: one to ask for abundance in each month of the following year. There are also many rituals that accompany the New Year’s party. For example: we fill our pockets with lentils to attract abundance, wear red panties for love, yellow for money, go outside with suitcases to attract many trips the following year, sweep the doorstep of the house to drive away bad vibes and gather a bunch of fresh wheat that represents fortune for next year. •January 1st – New Year’s Day. The first day of the new year, a day designed to rest, keep on partying or recuperate from the festivities from the night before (check out great places to cure a hangover in Mexico City here). • January 6 – Three Wise Men (Kings) Day. This day the Three Wise Men arrive to deliver gifts to Mexican homes. This is when the Rosca de Reyes (traditional sweet bread) is eaten. With this tradition the December festivities come to a happy end. Of course, over the years this marathon has become a reason to celebrate during 26 days. It began as a security operation by the country’s police and is now a party marathon for all Mexicans. It is used to justify (a little) all the excesses that are experienced in December. While the authorities take care of us, we celebrate. If you are going to take part in the famous marathon, we recommend you not to use a car, opt for some alternative means of transportation since there are breathalizers waiting in every corner, there is a lot of traffic because everyone is outside celebrating, and there are always many people buying gifts. FlowSuites is waiting for you with open arms to enjoy this special time in Mexico City, book your trip here. You can also contact us via WhatsApp at +52 1 55 7989 3074 for a vacation that you will definitely not forget.