Gourmands and international film aficionados alike gather in Guadalajara for festivals devoted to their crafts ... and that’s just in the month of March. Throughout the year, more festivals devoted to the celebration of tequila, jazz, and mariachi are among the city’s biggest and best. Check out our calendar below for ideas on what to see in Guadalajara year-round.
Guadalajara International Film Festival
Date: March
WEBSITE
With a diverse program, the International Film Festival in Guadalajara highlights the imagination of great artists and filmmakers. The FICG is a cultural event of great importance for Guadalajara and showcases the appreciation, dissemination, promotion and distribution of Mexican and Latin American cinema. It is a festival fit for in which film is presented as an industry, entertainment and art
Tequila Festival
Date: March
WEBSITE
More than 200 brands of tequila, music, art exhibits, food and tequila tastings await you during this two -day festival. Tequila Festival will delight your senses with the Mexican elixir that has transcended borders and makes Guadalajara proud of our history and tradition.
May Cultural Festival
Date: May
WEBSITE
The May Cultural Festival is fit for anyone who considers themselves an art lover. Founded in 1998, this festival features a different guest country each year. The May Cultural Festival has established itself as one of the best events Guadalajara has to offer.
Jalisco Jazz Festival
Date: July
WEBSITE
The Jalisco Jazz Festival is a summer festival in Guadalajara that attracts the most influential artists of the international jazz scene. For several years now, the Jalisco Jazz Festival hosts hundreds of attendees with brilliant artistic shows that highlights the best music of the jazz scene.
International Mariachi and Charrería Festival
Date: September
WEBSITE
Named an "Intangible Heritage of Humanity" by UNESCO, the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival has become an experience full of tradition. Every year, since 1994, thousands of spectators attend the festival to enjoy performances by some of the best mariachis in the world, the National Charro Championship, and other culture related events.This festival has turned into a spectacular party filled with Mexican folklore.
Article by Catalina Maria Johnson - The Magnificent Mariachi
Fiestas de Octubre
Date: October
WEBSITE
With a broad range of great artists, the Fiestas de Octubre brings together nearly two million visitors per year. This month-long Guadalajara celebration started in 1965 and features Guadalajara’s best art, culture, entertainment, and cuisine.
Jalisco Charros Baseball
Date: October to December
WEBSITE
Bring the whole family to cheer on the Jalisco Charros baseball team during their season from October to December.
Modama / Minerva Fashion / Intermoda / Expo Joya
Date: October to January
WEBSITE
Guadalajara is considered the fashion capital of Mexico with several glamorous fashion events taking place in the stylish city. Exhibitions, parades and several of the most impressive commercial centers make Guadalajara a fashionable place to visit.
Guadalajara International Book Fair
Date: November
WEBSITE
Since 1987, the Guadalajara International Book Fair has been responsible for turning our city into a intellectual epicenter. The festival’s program involves international authors from all continents and different languages. Open to the general public, the festival includes live music, art, film, theater and literature.