January-February
Part of our Mexico City Festivals & Events Series
Looking for celebrations during another time of year? Visit our Mexico City Events Calendar guide for a complete calendar and links to every seasonal article.
January
January is one of Mexico City’s coolest and driest months, making it an excellent time for sightseeing. The holiday crowds have largely disappeared, museums and attractions are quieter, and clear skies are common. Although January has fewer major festivals than the fall, it begins with one of Mexico’s most beloved family traditions.
Día de los Reyes (Three Kings’ Day) – January 6
Three Kings’ Day marks the traditional end of the Christmas season and commemorates the arrival of the Wise Men bearing gifts for the Christ Child. Bakeries throughout the city fill with Rosca de Reyes, a ring-shaped sweet bread decorated with candied fruit and hiding a small baby figurine inside. Families and friends gather to share the cake, and whoever finds the figurine is expected to host a tamale feast on Candelaria Day the following month. It’s one of Mexico’s warmest and most cherished holiday traditions.
Best for: Travelers interested in experiencing authentic family traditions and seasonal foods.
February
February combines major cultural events with one of Latin America’s most important contemporary art weeks. Whether you’re interested in world-class galleries, electronic music, or local traditions, there’s far more happening than the calendar might suggest.
Candelaria Day – February 2
The festive season concludes with Candelaria Day. According to tradition, whoever discovered the baby figurine inside the Rosca de Reyes in January hosts a tamale gathering for family and friends. It’s a uniquely Mexican tradition that ties the holiday season together one last time.
Art Week – Early February
For one exciting week each February, Mexico City becomes one of the world’s leading contemporary art destinations. The headline events are Zona MACO, Latin America’s largest international art fair, and the more experimental Material Art Fair, complemented by dozens of gallery openings, museum exhibitions, artist talks, and cultural events throughout the city. Art lovers could easily spend several days exploring everything on offer.
Best for: Contemporary art enthusiasts, collectors, photographers, and museum lovers.
Valentine’s Day – February 14
Valentine’s Day brings romantic menus, special events, and lively celebrations throughout the city. If you’re hoping to dine at one of Mexico City’s top restaurants, make reservations well in advance.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) – Late February
One of the world’s largest electronic dance music festivals, Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) has been held in Mexico City since 2014. Thousands of fans from around the world gather at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez for three days of internationally known DJs, elaborate stage productions, immersive light shows, and spectacular visual effects. Hotels near the venue fill quickly, so book accommodations well ahead if you plan to attend.
Best for: Music lovers and festival-goers looking for a high-energy international event.
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