Independence Day
To the Mexicans, Independence Day serves as a  reminder of the strength of the united nation against external intervention.  Travellers to Mexico City can witness this spirit of patriotism by going to Zocalo on September 16 to witness the congregation of thousands of people who pledge their allegiance to the flag of Mexico.  The occasion starts with the President pronouncing the names of the heroes of the independence which are echoed by the crowd.  The National Palace is alighted and adorned by thousand of impressive figures.  This is a great event in which to try out authentic Mexican cuisine as well as listen to Mariachi music.

Xochimilco's Floating Gardens
The Aztec's labor on Xochimilco park 700 years ago has persisted to these days as tourists can find flowers, fruit trees, medicinal and edible plants still growing there. The best way to see the gardens is to take a ride in the colorful trajineras (boats) through the 50 miles of canals and enjoy mariachis, Mexican food and arts and crafts vendors while afloat.  Or if the boat gives you woozy effect, then take a walk in the colonial neighborhood of Xochimilco which is filled with colorful flower markets and restaurants.

Ofrenda de Día de Muertos: Museo Dolores Patiño
An exhibition related to the traditional Day of the Dead celebration is presented here every year from November 1 until January 3. Besides xempazuchitl flowers, you will find sweet dishes such as dulce de camote (sweetmeat made from yams) and calabaza en tacha (the favorite drink of the dead made from pumpkins) along with ornamental objects, incense, confetti and candied skulls. This is an opportunity to witness one of the most beautiful traditions of the country. This exhibit is an homage to the mystery of the after-life, offered in a colorful and vibrant display.

Feria Anual de San Pedro Tlahuac
Every year during the last two weeks of June, this popular festival is held near the local government offices. This is the ideal setting for the variety of sports and cultural activities offered from traditional dances, exhibitions illustrating the continent prior to the Spanish invasion, to cycling and football tournaments. There is even a competition to see who can give the best speech. The festivities also include live music from local bands to get everybody swinging, and concludes with a fireworks display and a procession in honor of San Pedro, the local Patron Saint.

Festival Anual Metropolitano de Danza Folklórica
For a couple of weeks in June, this celebraion of dance is held every year.  Spectacular choreographic shows are performed by various dance groups in the Azcapotzalco campus of the Universidad Autua Metropolitana. The colorful regional attires, the diversity of their styles, and the beauty of their movement make for a fabulous show of impressive cultural expression. 

Fiestas Patrias
September is a special time for the Mexican people.  From the beginning of the month, every street in Mexico City is decorated with Mexican flags.  In the plaza General Alvaro ceremony known as the Shout of Independence takes place: this is part of an act held simultaneously all over Mexico, commemorating the moment when Miguel Hidalgo called on his fellow citizens to stand up and fight for their freedom. Here you will find street theatre, folk music, mechanical fairground attractions, concerts, the traditional cry of independence, flags patriotically raised into the air, a firework display, and all kinds of appetizing victuals and refreshments.

Representacion de la Pasion de Cristo
A performance of the Passion of Christ is held along the route towards the Cerro de la Estrella in Iztapalapa every year on Holy Friday (Good Friday). It is said to be witnessed by 4-5 million people every year, and has more people take part in this than any other performance in Latin America.  The role of Christ requires a great deal of both spiritual and physical preparation, given that it involves carrying a cross weighing over 150 kilos, then staying on the cross for several hours.  Travellers should wear comfortable clothes and it is highly advisable not to bring children under the age of six along as it is held in the open air during the rainy season. 

Tianguis del Día de Muertos en Xochimilco
During the last two weeks of October, various stall holders from the surrounding area descend on the local esplanade in Xochimilco to sell items related to the annual Day of the Dead festivities. In this market you can find a hodgepodge of traditional items, including Native American offerings of food, flowers, incense and copal (a hard resin derived from trees) as a gift for the gods or in honor of the deceased.  There are also performances of regional dances and handicrafts from around Mexico. 

This article is authored and copyrighted
by Royal Exclusive Travel

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