Want to learn about Holiday Traditions in Guatemala? It can be hard to grasp all the customs at first, but you’re not alone. You’re here to discover the meaningful ways Guatemalans celebrate their holidays.
We are here to help, with simple explanations to show you why these traditions are important to the people of Guatemala.
In this article, you’ll find:
- The lively celebrations of Independence Day
- How Guatemalans honor their military on Armed Forces Day
- The historical significance of Revolution Day
- Unique customs for New Year’s Eve and Christmas Eve
Ready to get started? By the end, you’ll know how to celebrate like a Guatemalan and understand the deeper meaning behind these important holidays.
- 1. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Independence Day
- 2. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Armed Forces Day
- 3. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Revolution Day
- 4. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: New Year's Eve
- 5. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Christmas Eve
- Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: A Recap
- FAQ
1. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Independence Day
Time & Location: Guatemala celebrates two important national holidays each year. These are called Días Patrios, which means Patriotic Days in Spanish.
One of the most important holiday traditions in Guatemala is on September 15. This day marks Guatemala’s independence from Spain in 1821. At that time, Guatemala joined other nearby countries to form a group called the United Provinces of Central America. Later, it became a separate country.
Event Details: Independence Day in Guatemala is full of color, music, and joy. One of the first things that happens is the Torch Relay. A torch is lit in Guatemala City. Then runners carry it through towns and cities. This shows how people across the country are connected.
There are also exciting parades. People wear traditional clothes and march through the streets. Marching bands play music, and floats decorated with flags and flowers move through the crowds. People cheer, sing, and dance together.
Homes, schools, and buildings are decorated with blue and white. These are the colors of the Guatemalan flag. The flag is proudly shown everywhere. People also sing songs about their country.
Although the holiday is fun, it is also a time to think about the past. People remember those who helped the country become free. They also think about what it means to be part of a strong and free nation.
Independence Day brings families and communities together. It reminds everyone how important it is to care for their country and respect its history.
2. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Armed Forces Day
Time & Location: In Guatemala, Armed Forces Day is celebrated on June 30 each year. If June 30 falls on a Tuesday or Wednesday, the celebration is moved to the Monday before. If it falls on a Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, it is moved to the following Monday.
Event Details: Armed Forces Day honors the Guatemalan military, which includes the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Presidential Guard. The president of Guatemala is the leader of the military and works with the Minister of Defence to make important decisions.
The day also marks an important event in history. A long time ago, a leader named Vincente Cerna had strict control over the country. Many people were unhappy with his rule. On June 30, a group of leaders and citizens took action, changing the government. This event led to the start of the Liberal Revolution.
Today, Armed Forces Day is a time to remember that change. This holiday tradition in Guatemala is a day to think about how the country has moved forward and to honor the military for its role in protecting the nation.
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3. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Revolution Day
Time & Location: Revolution Day in Guatemala is celebrated on October 20 every year.
Event Details: Revolution Day remembers a major event that happened in 1944. On this day, students, teachers, and workers came together to stand against the government. They were unhappy with how the country was being controlled by a military leader named Jorge Ubico. People had little freedom and were afraid to speak their minds.
These groups worked together to bring change. Their actions helped start a new time for Guatemala, where people began to fight for rights, fair treatment, and a better life.
As part of this holiday tradition in Guatemala, many people enjoy the day with music and fireworks. These celebrations help people feel proud of their history and remind them of the power of standing up for what is right.
Others use the day to speak out about current problems. Farmers, teachers, and people who care about human rights often gather in peaceful protests. They continue to call for fairness and respect for all people, just like those who acted in 1944.
4. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: New Year’s Eve
Time & Location: New Year’s Eve is celebrated in Guatemala on December 31. People also call it “Nochevieja” or “Año Nuevo” in Spanish.
Event Details: This day is full of fun, hope, and time with family. Holiday traditions in Guatemala are a mix of Mayan and Spanish customs passed down over time.
One common custom is burning the “Año Viejo“, a figure made with old clothes and filled with paper or small fireworks. It stands for the old year. When people burn it at midnight, it means they are letting go of bad things and making space for a better year.
Many people also eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month. They make a wish with every grape. Others walk around the block with a suitcase if they hope to travel in the new year.
In Antigua, people gather to see a street dance called the “Baile de Moros y Cristianos”. It tells a story from the past when the Spanish tried to share their religion with the Mayans. Along with the dance, you’ll find street shows, music, and comedy.
Families also make a special kind of tamale on this night. It is black and sweet because it has chocolate in it. You can find these tamales being sold by families and vendors alike.
Fireworks are a big part of this celebration. In Antigua, people go to the Municipal Palace or near the old arch to see the fireworks. They start around 11:45 p.m. and often continue past midnight.
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5. Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: Christmas Eve
Time & Location: Christmas Eve is another holiday tradition in Guatemala and is celebrated on December 24. The Christmas season starts at the beginning of December and continues through the New Year until the first week of January. Christmas Day is on December 25, just like in many other places.
Event Details: Christmas in Guatemala is filled with lively traditions and delicious food. The celebrations begin early in December and continue through Christmas Eve, known as Noche Buena.
One important tradition is las posadas navideñas, where people reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay before Jesus was born. Groups of people go from house to house, singing carols, and when they reach the final house, there’s a big celebration with food, drinks, and sometimes fireworks.
The Christmas table is filled with special foods like tamales colorados (red tamales) and drinks like ponche de frutas (fruit punch) and hot chocolate. Sharing these treats with family and friends is a big part of the celebration.
Another popular part of Christmas in Guatemala is decorating with handcrafted nativity scenes called nacimientos. These scenes, which show the birth of Jesus, are often made of clay and reflect local traditions.
You’ll also see colorful ornaments, some of which feature Guatemalan symbols like quetzals (the national bird), marimbas (musical instruments), or worry dolls.
In addition to traditional decorations like Santa Claus, many people like to add local touches to their Christmas tree. These ornaments help make the holiday even more meaningful by blending family traditions with Guatemalan culture.
Holiday Traditions in Guatemala: A Recap
Holiday traditions in Guatemala offer a fun way to explore the country’s culture. These holidays bring people together for food, music, and fun. Each holiday has a special meaning and shows what is important to the people.
From New Year’s Eve to Christmas, Guatemalans celebrate with family and honor their traditions. These holidays help them remember their history and stay connected with their community. They create happy memories and show the true spirit of Guatemala.
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