During this time of the year in Mexico City, the holidays bring about a hustle and bustle throughout the metropolis. The air becomes crisp. Christmas trees begin to light up in the windows. Poinsettias bring splashes of red to doorsteps. It is the season to reconnect with friends and family and a reminder to be grateful for the small joys life has to offer. Get in the spirit with your loved ones with these six Christmas events in Mexico City.
Christmas bazaars across the city
Christmas shopping can sometimes be a hassle, but a holiday bazaar is a fun, out-of-the-ordinary solution for undertaking this often-daunting task. In everything from old houses to outside spaces, Mexico City hosts markets that sell items for all tastes and styles. For more traditional items, you can head to the Mercado de Coyoacán for classic holiday items or the Bazar de Velas for a smorgasbord of Christmas candles. If you are looking for something more modern and upscale, opt for a run-through of the design items found at Tráfico Bazar or Bazar Fusión.
Traditional piñatas at the Museo de Arte Popular
In Mexico, traditional piñatas are put up during Posadas, a series of nine parties that take place between December 6th and 24th. Without these seven-pointed stars full of meaning and candies, the holiday season wouldn’t be the same. This year you can see beautifully crafted piñatas made by artisans across the country at the Museo de Arte Popular, all while learning about their origin and symbols.
Where? Museo de Arte Popular, Revillagigedo 11, Centro
When? Exhibited until December 12, 2018
Hours? Tuesday, 10am-6pm; Wednesday, 10am-9pm; Thursday-Sunday, 10am-6pm
Christmas lights and nativity plays at Desierto de los Leones
In Mexico City, fresh air and nature landscapes are always much needed. Desierto de los Leones is a national park home to over 4,450 acres of green space ideal for hiking, cycling, and simply enjoying the outdoors. You can also find a 17th-century ex-convent built by Carmelite monks that served as a place for retreat outside of the busy capital. This December the historical site will host a trail of lights, nativity plays, and other Christmas activities that make for a light-hearted family outing.
Where? Ex-convento del Desierto de los Leones
When? December 14 — 23, 2018
Hours? 6:30am — 10:30pm
Cenart’s Winter Lights Festival (Festival Luces de Invierno)
Nothing puts you in the mood for Christmas like song and dance. This year Cenart (National Center of the Arts) will celebrate the season with musical and dance performances. Everything from jazz concerts and theater plays to seasonal activities are guaranteed to help ring in the Yuletide season. The most celebrated performances are classical and contemporary interpretations of Tchaikovsky’s two-act ballet, The Nutcracker. Characters like the Mouse King and Sugar Plum Fairy will transport you to an alternate winter wonderland and leave you feeling a bit more Christmassy when you leave the theater.
Where? Cenart, Av. Río Churubusco 79
When? December 6 — 16, 2018
Hours? Check here for hours, dates, and costs of events.
Xochimilco’s Mágica Nochebuena
Whether visiting with friends or family, Xochimilco is always a good idea. But for the first time ever this December, you will be able to float through the calm canals on a trajinera decorated in flickering red and green Christmas lights. Neither a gondola nor a boat, a trajinera is a water ride that promises festive music, fun, drink, and food. Apart from the twinkling decorations, there will be a nativity play that reenacts the birth of Jesus in a fun, endearing manner. Given that Xochimilco is the place to buy plants, don’t forget to take home a poinsettia or two to brighten up your home for the holidays.
Where? Caltongo Xochimilco
When? Exclusively on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from December 1 — 23, 2018
Hours? 7pm (Friday) and 6pm (Saturday and Sunday)
Miracle pop-up bar at Licorería Limantour
Let’s face it; alcohol is a central part of the holiday season. People gather around bottles of wine, spirits, and beer to share stories and catch up. To get in the Christmas mood, you can make your way (back) to the famous Licorería Limantour Roma for the Christmas-themed pop-up bar, Miracle. Take your pick of festive holiday-inspired cocktails in a kitsch (but fun) décor. For a kick of Navidad, try the Snowball Old-Fashioned concocted with gingerbread bourbon, wormwood bitters, and lemon zest. Even your common Mr. Scrooge will be in the holiday spirit after a drink or two.
Where? Licorería Limantour, Álvaro Obregón 106, Roma Norte
When? November 24 — December 24, 2018
Hours? Monday-Tuesday, 6pm — 12am; Wednesday-Saturday, 6pm — 2am; Sunday, 6pm — 11pm
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Other articles that may interest you:
The 5 Best Cocktail Bars in Mexico City
The Top 5 Museums in Polanco, Mexico City
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