Semana Santa in Mexico – also known as Holy Week – is one of the most significant religious and cultural holidays in the country.
It happens the week before Easter (Pascua), which is April 13 to 20 this year, and it marks the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Across the country, streets transform into sacred spaces.
Schools and businesses close. Cities stop for long processions.
Churches overflow. Passion plays reenact Christ’s last days on earth.
From ancient rituals to modern celebrations, it’s a week steeped in reflection, reverence, and community.
Whether you plan to participate in the processions, travel during the holiday, or simply want to better understand what’s unfolding around you – knowing what to expect can make this sacred season more meaningful.
And to help you get the most out of Semana Santa in Mexico, here’s what you need to know…from what to expect to the top 10 places to experience this religious holiday.
How Holy Week Unfolds: Key Days of Semana Santa in Mexico
Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos) April 13, 2025
Palm Sunday commemorates the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem, where people greeted him by waving palm branches.
Masses include the blessing of woven palm fronds, often beautifully crafted into crosses or intricate designs.
In some towns across Mexico, there are reenactments of Jesus’ arrival on a donkey leading a procession of people carrying palms.
Artisans sell elaborately decorated palm fronds, which are then blessed in churches.
Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo) April 17, 2025
Maundy Thursday is the night of The Last Supper, the washing the feet of the disciples, and Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Many devout Catholics visit seven different churches to pray and reflect on Jesus’ suffering. It’s called the Visitation of Seven Churches (Visita de las Siete Casas).
Some churches hold reenactments of the Last Supper, often followed by a symbolic foot-washing ceremony, where priests wash the feet of parishioners.
Good Friday (Viernes Santo) April 18, 2025
The crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ is perhaps the most profound experience of Semana Santa in Mexico.
Passion Plays take place across Mexico, with actors portraying Jesus, Roman soldiers, and biblical figures.
And, in some places, it’s not for the faint of heart because they realistically reenact the march to the cross and the crucifixion.
The most famous one is in Iztapalapa, Mexico City (more on that later in the article), where thousands gather to witness the intense reenactment.
Processions of Silence (Procesión del Silencio) with participants dressed in robes and hoods carry religious statues and candles. The atmosphere is quiet and reverential.
Holy Saturday (Sábado de Gloria) April 19, 2025
This day marks the time when Jesus’ body lay in the tomb, and His followers mourned His death. And it’s one of the most quiet days in Mexico (aside from Good Friday).
Traditionally a somber day, some communities hold vigils leading up to Easter Sunday.
Easter Sunday (Domingo de Pascua) April 20, 2025
Pascua celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ – the most joyful day of Holy Week.
Masses are held featuring joyous music, bells, and celebratory prayers.
Easter egg hunts and the Easter Bunny are not widespread traditions in Mexico. However, in some expat communities, these customs have gained popularity.
Families gather for a festive meal, often featuring seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and sweets like capirotada (Mexican bread pudding).
In some places on Easter Sunday, effigies of Judas Iscariot, made from papier-mâché, are set on fire or blown to bits with fireworks. This tradition comes from pre-Hispanic rituals to destroy negative forces.
These days, the effigies are not only of Judas but also of devils, corrupt politicians, or unpopular public figures.
Respecting Local Traditions
While some places (like beach destinations) have a party atmosphere, for others Semana Santa is a very solemn occasion, focusing on prayer and processions.
If attending a religious event, be mindful; dress modestly and avoid loud conversations.
Avoid disrupting processions or taking intrusive photos and be aware of getting too close to participants.
Semana Santa Survival Tips: Closures, Travel, and Safety during Holy Week
Semana Santa in Mexico isn’t just a spiritual experience – it’s also one of the busiest times of the year.
From bank closures to traffic jams, here’s what you need to know to avoid surprises and navigate the week smoothly.
Business Closures during Semana Santa
Although Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are not official national holidays, they are widely observed.
Many government offices, banks, and small businesses may be closed Thursday and Friday.
The week following Easter Sunday is also a popular vacation period in Mexico and some businesses may close this week as well.
Schools usually close for the whole week of Semana Santa and sometimes the following week.
Restaurants & bars remain open, especially in tourist areas, but reservations are recommended.
ATMs can run out of cash due to high demand, so make sure to withdraw money early in the week.
If you’re traveling to a small town, be aware that some places and vendors don’t accept cards.
Supermarkets and markets usually remain open, but might have variable hours and usually close early on Good Friday. They’re often busier than normal.
Traveling during Semana Santa in Mexico
Domestic travelers take advantage of this holiday break, so expect heavy traffic on the highways to popular beach destinations.
Consider leaving before or after peak travel days (Palm Sunday & Good Friday).
Bus stations and popular airports like Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City, and Cancun are BUSY, so plan to arrive early.
General Safety Tips
Increased crowds can attract opportunistic thieves. Try to carry just the essentials when attending processions or visiting crowded areas.
Markets, supermarkets, and bus stations are prime pickpocket territory, so keep an eye on your belongings and don’t stash all your cash in one place.
If attending processions, plan your route and choose a meeting point in case you get separated – sometimes cell phone networks get overloaded and temporarily don’t work in rural areas.
Traditional Mexican Foods of Semana Santa
As most events related to Holy Week occur outside and in large gatherings, antojitos (Mexican street food) are more popular than ever.
You can find pambazos with cheese, fried fish, fried plantains, and hot cakes/pancakes with various toppings.
Semana Santa is also the traditional start of the ice cream and flavored ice season. Originating in Mexico City, flavored ice was made with ice and snow brought down from the Popocatepetl volcano.
Some other must-try Semana Santa dishes:
Capirotada: A traditional bread pudding made with bolillo (Mexican bread), cinnamon, raisins, nuts, and cheese – symbolizing elements of the Passion of Christ.
Torrejas: A Mexican-style French toast, soaked in syrup and often enjoyed as a sweet treat during Holy Week.
The bread represents the body of Christ, the syrup represents his blood, the cloves represent the nails of the cross, and the cinnamon represents the wood of the cross. Many families have their own recipes that have been passed down for generations.
Pescado a la Veracruzana: A popular seafood dish made with fish, tomatoes, olives, and capers, reflecting Spanish and indigenous influences.
Empanadas de Vigilia: Lent-friendly empanadas filled with ingredients like cheese, mushrooms, or seafood.
Top 10 Places to Experience Semana Santa in Mexico
Whether you’re looking for an intense religious experience, a cultural getaway, or a relaxing escape, here are the top destinations to visit during Semana Santa.
#1 Iztapalapa, Mexico City – Best for Passion Plays
One of the most dramatic reenactments of Christ’s crucifixion in the world takes place in the southern Mexico City neighborhood of Iztapalapa.
This tradition is taken incredibly seriously. Jesus is chosen (he must be strong, single, Christian, and native to Iztapalapa) and then hauls a cross up the Cerro de la Estrella before being “crucified.”
This century-old tradition draws over two million spectators, with over 4,000 local residents playing biblical figures in an intense, emotional performance.
Many Mexico City residents leave for vacations, resulting in quieter streets and less crowded attractions.
Visitors can explore museums, parks, and historical sites with far fewer people than normal.
#2 San Luis Potosí – Best for the Procession of Silence
The Procesión del Silencio (Procession of Silence) is one of the most solemn and visually striking Semana Santa events.
On Good Friday, participants march through the historic center in total silence, dressed in hooded robes and carrying religious icons. There’s a gothic, eerie atmosphere.
This is best for those looking for a profound spiritual experience rather than a festive atmosphere.
#3 Taxco, Guerrero – Best for Traditional Catholic Rituals
Taxco, a colonial silver town, is known for its intense and dramatic processions, where penitents endure physical suffering as an act of faith and repentance.
Each participant prepares for months – both physically and spiritually – believing that their suffering brings them closer to God and serves as penance for sins.
Hooded penitents walk barefoot.
Some carry bundles of thorny branches weighing up to 50 kg on the shoulders, causing their necks and backs to bleed.
Others lash their backs with metal-tipped whips.
The processions, set against the town’s steep, cobblestone streets and illuminated by candlelight, create a hauntingly powerful scene.
Spectators, whether religious or not, often find the experience profoundly moving, as the silence, solemnity, and raw devotion make Taxco’s Semana Santa one of the most intense in Mexico.
#4 San Miguel de Allende – Best for a Blend of Tradition
San Miguel de Allende is a visually stunning place to experience Semana Santa.
The town is known for its ornate processions, Passion plays, and floral displays, creating a picturesque mix of tradition and charm.
It’s more relaxed atmosphere compared to Taxco or Iztapalapa.
The Quema de Judas, or Burning of Judas Festival, is a highlight of events in San Miguel de Allende. Papier-mâché figures hang all around the central garden, and are then blown to bits to the cheers of the crowd.
Insider Tip: Book accommodations well in advance. Semana Santa is one of the busiest weeks of the year in San Miguel.
#5 Veracruz – A Coastal Holy Week with Afro-Mexican Influence
Veracruz’s processions feature vibrant music and dance, with traditional son jarocho and danzón rhythms adding energy to the solemn rituals.
Many participants incorporate African-inspired movements and attire, reflecting Veracruz’s rich cultural heritage.
After the morning’s religious services, locals and visitors head to the beach, where the atmosphere shifts from solemnity to celebration.
Live music, street performances, and traditional dance bring the city to life, while seafood feasts are a highlight.
Dishes like tortitas de camarón (shrimp cakes) are especially popular on Good Friday, honoring the tradition of avoiding meat.
#6 Puebla & Cholula – Best for a Mix of Culture, Faith & Food
Puebla City is known for its deeply traditional Holy Week processions, but one of the most unique events is the representation of the Virgin of Solitude (Virgen de la Soledad).
On Good Friday, this solemn procession honors the Virgin Mary in mourning, dressed in black, symbolizing her grief after Christ’s crucifixion. The event is marked by silence and candlelight.
Cholula is particularly famous for its alfombras, colorful carpets made from sawdust and flowers. These meticulously designed and constructed creations are made in the streets before Good Friday.
Both Puebla and nearby Cholula host vibrant markets during Semana Santa, where you can find a variety of delicious regional specialties.
Visitors can enjoy a range of dishes that reflect the area’s rich culinary heritage, from seafood options like shrimp cakes to traditional sweets like capirotada and torreja.
#7 Pátzcuaro, Michoacán – Best for a Mystical & Indigenous Holy Week
Pátzcuaro’s Semana Santa is a spiritual and visually striking event, blending Catholic traditions with the rich cultural heritage of the Purépecha people.
The Procesión de los Cristos on Good Friday is a highlight, featuring figures made from corn paste – an ancient indigenous craft.
Fire rituals play a key role in the celebrations, with burning incense and ceremonial fires enhancing the spiritual ambiance. These rituals are rooted in indigenous Purépecha traditions.
The processions, illuminated by candlelight and accompanied by indigenous music, create a mystical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
#8 Puerto Vallarta – Best for a Beach Escape with a Side of Tradition
The sheer volume of visitors – both national and international – who flood the city make this one of the most vibrant and dynamic Semana Santa destinations.
Good Friday processions wind through the Malecón and historic center, where locals carry religious icons, and churches hold special masses.
Meanwhile, the city’s beaches, nightlife, and resorts attract a mix of families and partygoers, creating a contrast between solemn devotion and festive relaxation.
The beaches are packed, hotels book up fast, and the nightlife reaches another level, with bars and clubs hosting special events.
Still, traditional aspects of Holy Week remain visible, from local seafood feasts in beachside palapas to cultural performances in the town square.
#9 Creel, Chihuahua: Gateway to Copper Canyon
Nestled in the Sierra Tarahumara, Creel is a small but vibrant town known as the gateway to Copper Canyon.
It’s a key stop along the famous El Chepe train route, which runs through northern Mexico’s breathtaking canyon landscapes.
Home of the Rarámuri people (renowned for their exceptional endurance and long-distance running abilities), Creel is a great place to avoid the crowds during Semana Santa.
The town has a fascinating mix of indigenous traditions and colonial influences, visible in its craft markets, mission churches, and local festivals.
During Semana Santa, there are ceremonial dances, fire rituals, and community gatherings.
Dancers known as pintos, paint their bodies with lime. The “Danza de Pintos y Fariseos” is a significant part of Rarámuri Semana Santa celebrations. It symbolically reenacts the struggle between good and evil.
Another key part of the festivities is tesgüino – a traditional corn beer, shared among participants to keep them warm and energized during the long celebrations.
#10 Mérida, Yucatán – Best for Colonial Charm & a Relaxed Vibe
Unlike the bustling Holy Week crowds in other cities, Mérida’s celebrations have a more intimate and reflective feel.
Beautiful alfombras (carpets), made from fresh fruits, flowers, and other materials, are created in front of altars or the paths where religious floats will pass.
The week also includes traditional Yucatecan cuisine, such as pescado en tikin-xic (achiote-marinated fish), pan de cazón (layered tortilla and shark dish), and empanadas de chaya (a local leafy green).
Many locals and visitors take advantage of the holiday by heading to the nearby cenotes or the beaches of Progreso, making Mérida an ideal spot to experience both tradition and relaxation during Semana Santa.
INSIDER TIP: Semana Santa is a deeply religious time for many Mexicans, and greetings often include blessings or references to God. Using phrases that express good wishes and blessings is a sign of respect.
If you’d like to greet someone during Semana Santa and Easter, here are some common phrases…
“Que tengas una Semana Santa llena de paz y reflexión.”
Translation: May you have a holy week full of peace and reflection.
This is something you might find in a message, greeting card, WhatsApp family group, or a Facebook post — especially from people who lean more spiritual or traditional. It’s thoughtful and appropriate, just not something you’d hear often in casual street conversation.
“¡Que disfrutes de Semana Santa!”
Translation: Enjoy Holy Week!
Often used before Easter, especially when referring to time off or travel.
In more casual settings, you can simply say “¡Feliz Pascua!” or “Happy Easter!”
For more cultural insights, real-world Mexican-Spanish etiquette tips, and tools that make life in Mexico simpler, check out the Insider Pulse Toolkit.
It’s created to help you feel more confident and connected, not just during Semana Santa, but every day.
