The Christmas season in Mexico City is a magical time, full of lights, colors and a feeling of celebration that envelops every corner of the city.
Of course, CDMX offers a range of activities that capture the essence of Christmas in Mexico and provide a beautiful and memorable experience.
But, among so many Christmas activities in the city, which one should you go to? Here is a selection of the best events that will take place during the 2023 Christmas season in Mexico City.
Bolo Fest Christmas Parade
Date: December 2 (starts at 10 am)
Place: Paseo de la Reforma Avenue
Mexico City has its own Christmas parade to kick off the season's celebrations. The "Bolo Fest" fills Paseo de la Reforma Avenue with magic, monumental figures, music and the joy of Christmas carols. It is also a unique opportunity to see some of your favorite fantasy characters up close in a festive and colorful environment.
The Bolo Fest route showcases the city's beauty and spirit, stretching from the Diana Cazadora Roundabout to the Glorieta de las Mujeres que Luchan. This event is completely free, offering everyone the opportunity to immerse themselves in the joy and festive spirit of Christmas on one of CDMX's most iconic avenues.
The Nutcracker
Date: December 15 to 23
Venue: Auditorio Nacional (National Auditorium)
"The Nutcracker", the classic ballet that has fascinated generations during the Christmas season, returns this year with the Compañía Nacional de Danza at the Auditorio Nacional. The staging is a magical combination of vibrant colors, lighting that enhances the dancers' skills, and costumes that transport you to the enchanted world of the characters. This performance is a visual delight and an experience that conveys the warmth and beauty of the holiday season.
The music, composed by Tchaikovsky, is masterfully performed by the Fine Arts Theater Orchestra under the concertmaster Julia Cruz, renowned for her work with orchestras in Europe and America. This year, the direction of the dancers is in charge of Elisa Carrillo, ambassador of culture in Mexico and first Mexican prima ballerina in one of the most important companies in Europe (Staatsballett, Berlin), along with Cuauhtemoc Najera, former director of the company.
Tickets start at $380 MXN and can be purchased directly at the Auditorio's box office or at Ticketmaster.
Medieval Christmas at Desierto de los Leones
Date: December 17 (from 10 am to 7 pm)
Venue: Exconvent Desierto de los Leones
The Desierto de los Leones invites everyone to experience an out-of-the-ordinary Christmas with its "Medieval Christmas" event. On Sunday, December 17, the Exconvent will become a magical space full of adventures and entertainment for the whole family.
You can be part of a living nativity scene, come face to face with St. Nicholas of Bari, and be fascinated by Arab dances and exciting knightly combat. The little ones will be delighted with the princesses' dance, the Christmas elves' village, and games with harlequins. Plus, you can try your hand at archery, have your picture taken on a Viking ship, and explore a medieval marketplace with unique crafts, food and drink.
The entrance fee is $200 MXN and is paid directly at the event.
Navidades en México (Christmas in Mexico)
Date: December 20 to 30 (7 pm)
Venue: Chapultepec Castle
One of the jewels of the holiday season in Mexico City is the show "Navidades en México," a staging performed by the renowned Ballet Folklorico de Mexico de Amalia Hernandez. This event, which has been performed since 2006, stands out for its focus on cultural syncretism and rich Mexican traditions.
Through dance, song and music, the folkloric ballet recreates the most beloved festivities of Christmas in Mexico, such as the posadas, the pastorela and the visit of the Three Wise Men, in addition to performing traditional Christmas carols, all in an atmosphere that faithfully reflects the country's Christmas spirit.
"Christmas in Mexico" takes place at the emblematic Chapultepec Castle. Tickets cost $990 MXN and can be purchased directly at the castle's box office or at Ticketmaster.
Candlelight Christmas
Date: December 21 and 22 (7 pm and 9:30 pm)
Venue: El Cantoral
The "Candlelight" concert series, known for its intimate and magical candlelight ambiance, presents a fantastic holiday experience in Mexico City. This year, Candlelight transforms the most special time of the year into a multi-sensory celebration with breathtaking live music performances. These concerts promise an unforgettable evening at El Cantoral, where you can immerse in the magic of Christmas.
Candlelight Christmas’ repertoire includes classics such as "White Christmas”, "Los Peces En El Rio", "La Marimorena" and many other Christmas songs quite popular in Mexico. The music comes to life in an eerie setting illuminated by thousands of candles, with performances by talented singers and musicians on piano, saxophone, drums, bass and guitar.
Tickets start at $199 MXN and can be purchased at Fever's website.
Christmas Markets
Date: From the end of November until December 23 or 24
Place: all over the city
Christmas bazaars are an excellent option to buy the gifts you want to give to your loved ones. With a wide variety of products, such as clothing, shoes, household items and decorative objects, offered by independent designers and producers, you will find gifts that stand out for their originality and quality.
These bazaars can be found in various parts of the city but are especially popular in areas such as the Historic Center and the Roma, Condesa and Juarez neighborhoods. A simple Google search can reveal the main bazaars in the city, or even walking through the streets you will find them.
While you plan to attend any of these Christmas events and activities, we invite you to stay at Central Hoteles on your next visit to Mexico City. Located in the heart of the Historic Center, our hotels offer you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the magic of Christmas in the city.
With us, you will enjoy a comfortable and stylish stay and find yourself in the epicenter of the Christmas celebration, where tradition, culture, and festive spirit are alive in every corner.
We invite you to make Central Hoteles your home away from home this holiday season and experience the joy and charm of Christmas in the heart of Mexico City!
Travel, culture and traditions in Mexico City.
