In recent years, however, the city has begun to see a dynamic shift. While there are still water aerobics classes, yoga and book clubs, there are also rock concerts featuring teenaged bands, skateboard parks and special clubs designed just for teens.

With more and more younger families arriving, San Miguel is gaining a reputation as not just a great place to retire but also as one that is evolving into a capital for kids.

Musical theater for kids

Teen Connect SMA (SMA stands for San Miguel de Allende) is a club that puts on theatrical music productions and sponsors “unplugged” — i.e. no phones allowed — adventure camps for kids. The founder, Kirsten McCormick, moved to San Miguel five years ago.

“I’m a mom of five kids. We moved to San Miguel as kind of an experiment,” McCormick tells me. “To see if it was a good fit for my family. I fell in love immediately, but my teenagers were less impressed. 

“It seemed like there wasn’t much for them. I realized [that] if I wanted the whole family to stay, I needed to do something. I started Teen Connect SMA in January of 2021 with a socially distanced outdoor meetup. We played icebreaker games with the kids, and I saw how much they lit up at being in person instead of online.

“I knew my kids needed this. I decided to do it once a week. And now we have this high-quality children’s theater, classes, clubs and social events.”

Today, Teen Connect SMA comprises over 100 families, and its musical theater program puts on a big production twice a year.

Drum teacher launches teen concert series

Yet another music program for children and teens started in 2023, when San Miguel native Luis Flores moved home after spending 15 years in California.

“I got my first drum set when I was only eight years old,” Flores says. “I’ve been hooked since then. Punk rock and skateboarding culture always caught my attention, and that’s how I discovered the bands that became my inspiration.”

Flores now teaches drums and percussion to over 50 students in San Miguel aged two to 19.

“In my classes, we learn about all music styles, but we definitely focus more on rock ‘n’ roll. From the very first lesson, my students play along to bands like Black Sabbath, AC/DC or the Beatles,” Flores says.

In Flores’ program, kids can do regular live gigs: He arranges concerts in public parks for special occasions, and the teenagers play at local cafés and restaurants.

“I always encourage my students to perform in front of audiences,” says. “This helps build self-esteem, and it gets them excited about future presentations. Some of my students are now forming their own bands: Cat Litter, Toxic, Indigo, Vestige and Music Machine. These young bands have already been performing in local venues like Café Rama, Tupinamba, Amapola and El Sindicato.”

‘A fertile environment for kids’

These young bands include students taught guitar and piano by local music professor Mario Moya. Born and raised in San Miguel, the classically trained Moya plays harpsichord, piano and guitar.

Moya has recently noticed a recent change in the town’s personality.

“The musical scene of San Miguel is moving. More people are coming. Not just Americans but also Mexicans from Mexico City, from Monterrey, from Guanajuato. It is becoming a better place for young people,” Moya says. “Once, it was mainly retired people. There was even a saying that people came here to die happy,” he says with a laugh.

As a boy, Moya earned part of his music class tuition by accompanying his teacher to perform in rural communities and orphanages. To this day, he remains passionate about bringing art and music to financially challenged families. His perception of the evolving music scene in San Miguel is positive.

“Due to our economic situation, my father was not sure about music. Probably he would have rather had a teacher or a lawyer,” Moya says. “To become a musician was just a dream.” 

“But now I see the way that music is developing here,” Moya adds. “There is the desire of the kids to play, but there is also support from the parents. The families moving here are finding it a very fertile environment for kids. San Miguel has a better infrastructure for youth. I mean, we have the teen club that puts on musical productions, Luis Flores with 50 kids playing drums, the youth orchestra, new music stores, skateboarding parks. Look at all the possibilities.

“People often want to say that the past was better. And, yes, there are a lot of people moving to San Miguel. But it’s very cool to think how the city has developed from a touristy retired international community to what I consider a multicultural musical scene. Because of the demand, there is so much to offer. It is amazing to me that so many kids here have access to art.”

Demand for youth activities higher than ever

The private-sector demand for youth activities also provides more opportunities for lower-income families. Moya offers scholarships, while McCormick’s unplugged teen adventure camps spend part of their experience teaching younger kids in the countryside.

“The camp is free for [the rural kids], and it gives the teens a chance to do service, immerse themselves in the communities and give back,” McCormick says. “It feels good for everyone. It’s an awesome integrated experience. Overall, I’d say San Miguel has become a great place for teens.”

Flores’ student bands played a sold-out show at a popular nightspot in downtown San Miguel in late July.

“This change in the music scene for San Miguel is very exciting,” Flores said. “It will be very beneficial to the community to have a nice mix of retirees and young families at these events. When the kids play live, there is great energy in the crowd. It turns into an amazing time, and everyone enjoys the show.”

Anne Richards is a San Miguel de Allende-based author.

The post Retirement mecca San Miguel de Allende changes its tune with increasing youth activities appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Replete with its gastronomic offerings, waterfall hikes and abundance of history, it’s beloved year-round — with moderate weather and unbeatable views of Cofre de Perote, the eighth tallest summit in the country.

Surrounded by rivers and banana trees, Xico is a majestic locale unto itself, known for its distinct mole xiqueño (a particularly sweet variation of the Mexican sauce), tamales canarios (a dessert tamal made from rice flour and milk) and the nearby Texolo Falls, (a popular site where Hollywood scenes have often been filmed).

Xico is a place I’ve often visited growing up, where my family would frequently take day trips to explore. And, yet, while only being a short drive away from my parents’ hometown in Xalapa, I’ve never once attended the Xiqueñada — an annual celebration in honor of Saint  Mary  Magdalena — which draws thousands of visitors to the small town every July, particularly for its amateur bull capea, an event where amateurs can dodge and otherwise interact with young bulls in a controlled environment.

For the 50th anniversary of the event, I finally made it to Xico for the raucous weeks-long tradition.

The celebration for Santa María Magdalena is one of the oldest in the state, believed to have originated in 1853. The Xiqueñada, which involves a street capea in the morning and bullfight in the evening, dates back to 1975. 

During this multiweek festival, altars are built inside of homes with traditional offerings and music. Of course, regional favorites like mora (fermented berry wine) and pan de huevo (egg-brushed, sweet bread rolls) are hawked on every corner and from every window.

The Mardi Gras-esque party lasts for many days and occurs throughout the pueblo’s historic, narrow roads, elaborately interconnected with parades, outdoor drinking, carnival rides, street food, floral adornments, music, family activities and most famously, bulls loosed upon the main avenue. Over the years, more humanitarian precautions have been enacted to protect the bulls from harm, but it still remains a controversial aspect of the festival. 

The party rages from day until night, with most of the action centered near Parque Xico, in front of the Church of Santa María Magdalena. You’ll get your share of steps while traversing the small town’s restaurants, taquerias, artisan shops and local squares, which are all mostly clustered along Hidalgo, the main strip.

It all ends with a local version of bullfighting, a tradition brought over by the Spaniards in the 16th century. In total, 18 bulls are transported into the town’s center inside small shipping containers. The main street that leads in and out of town is sectioned off with steel gates into three multiblock stretches lined with spectators, who watch from makeshift bleachers built the day before. In order to sit, you must pay a fee to the restaurant or small business you are seated in front of, which will likely offer drinks, snacks and, in some cases, entire meals for an extra charge.

For those opposed to the bull event, the celebrations are so much more than that; the majority of days leading up to it are filled with arts of a bohemian, communal nature and are especially family-friendly to attend.

The festival happens in phases, with most events largely centered on decorative costumes, on La Xiqueña — a local mythical figure who is revered — and on St. Mary Magdelene, whose statue is carried around town. Daily processions with live bands and colorful outfits — featuring a mixture of both Indigenous and Spanish influences — sweep the streets, though beware: Road closures make for difficult mobility, so plan to park your vehicle well in advance or take public transportation from a larger city.

One particular highlight is the series of “tapetes” — kilometers-long works of art formed with naturally dyed sawdust arranged in intricate shapes and floral patterns to resemble carpets on the principal streets. 

Community members such as Manuel Olivares, a local resident who has been involved with creating designs for over 25 years — since he was a child — spend hours arranging it all as out-of-towners and locals walk along the edges to view the process and end product.

During the nonstop parades, hundreds of children and adults from the town’s various neighborhoods and surrounding areas wear cowbells to help guide the men wearing large bull-shaped contraptions named “toritos” (or “little bulls”), which consist of around 160 fireworks. These get lit in the evenings in a show of flying sparks and dancing street parties. The cowbells, in particular, are said to ward off negative spirits and represent the provincial pride of the people, who in many cases maintain a family lineage of participation.

On the penultimate day, which is when the bulls arrive, I chose to experience it all from inside El Mesón Xiqueño, a spacious restaurant on Hidalgo street, which has been hosting La Xiquenada events for more than 30 years. I went with my family and the environment was, from a consumer perspective, enjoyable and comfortable for us all. 

To understand the event, it’s important to note that it’s one of the town’s most attended — and economically profitable — days for local foodmakers, business owners and artisans. When I was a child, my mom — a Xalapeña herself — would often attend the event and come back with various memorabilia. In that sense, the event has a certain lore for the people in this sector of Veracruz.

All that doesn’t dismiss the concerns over animal rights violations; it’s simply to say that in this part of the state, it’s a way of life for many, an entire economy unto itself and a rite of passage for certain participants.

Inside the restaurant, you don’t see much. From a nearby speaker out front, a lively emcee narrates as men from the town dodge the bulls. These men mostly consist of a group that takes it seriously, although there are, of course, others who are more reckless in their approach. 

No weapons, objects or harassment of the bulls are allowed — at one point, a young man threw his empty beer can at a bull and was vigorously booed by the crowd and ejected. Throughout this three-hour event, which begins around noon, more and more locals jump into the fray, some wearing bull horns and waving large red cloths to distract the bulls in order to dodge head-on charges. 

It’s surreal to witness, as crowds cheer for the pueblo’s best “torreros” who dance and twirl their way out of danger; nearby, professional bull wranglers watch on in case of any serious injuries. I saw a few men get trampled, and one needed to be carted off but appeared to be fine. 

At times, the bulls appeared unconcerned, if not uninterested, while at others, they forcefully bulldozed their way down the cobblestoned paths. Eventually, they are returned to the gated storage from which they emerged, and the streets are reopened for the festival to resume.

Later in the evening, the event officially concludes with bullfighters from various around the world. Although Mexico City recently banned bullfighting (instead opting for bloodless bullfighting rules), the sport still goes on in a few parts of Mexico, particularly in regions where it’s a proud, ongoing tradition. I chose not to attend this portion, which takes place at nearby Plaza de Toros Alberto Balderas.

Overall, the festival felt overwhelmingly local and inviting — a stranger offered to pour mora into my and my family member’s mouths from a horn-shaped flask simply for cheering him on while he was in mid pour himself. It felt largely family-oriented, with children and grandparents alike enjoying it all. I met a few artists, learned about local culinary traditions I’d never known, and appreciated the parochial energy of the Pueblo Mágico and its people. 

One of Xico’s biggest charms is its Old World aura of a town founded in 1313 that has remained relatively stuck in time. Mexico is filled with such wonders — but rarely are they tucked away in the endlessly green mountains of Veracruz. Even rarer? That they have La Xiqueñada. 

It is ethically complicated because of the bulls, but it is still worthwhile to witness  these regional customs and see how people embrace their forms of entertainment and community differently than we might be accustomed elsewhere. 

Xico is, indeed, magical — in more ways than one.

The post La Xiqueñada: A first-timer’s guide to Xico’s raucous weeks-long festival appeared first on Mexico News Daily

“This is an unprecedented figure and a statement of impact as powerful as the historic record of her 12 sold-out dates at Estadio GNP Seguros in Mexico City,” OCESA said in a press release. “One million tickets … in a country of 129 million inhabitants!” According to OCESA, Shakira is the first artist to sell this many tickets just within Mexico.

Shakira Breaks New Record with 1 Million Tickets Sold in Mexico During World Tourhttps://t.co/ehJCduItSJ

— billboard (@billboard) July 31, 2025

The Colombian song-and-dance artist achieved this record through 26 concerts scheduled in two separate phases, surpassing other international stars who have performed in Mexico, like Taylor Swift. 

The first round of concerts took place in March, when she made history with seven consecutive sold-out performances. She also became the first artist in history to perform 12 concerts at the GNP Seguros Stadium in Mexico City (formerly Foro Sol), breaking the previous record of nine shows held by Grupo Firme at the same venue.

Due to the overwhelming demand following the initial phase, Shakira added more dates for August and September at the GNP Seguros Stadium and other major venues across the country. This second phase helped the singer and songwriter beat the 1 million mark.

Shakira’s milestone has also placed her at the top of such important charts as Billboard Boxscore, having accumulated more than US $130 million in revenue by mid-2025, underscoring her massive influence in the world of Latin music.

The superstar’s upcoming shows include Mexico City (Aug. 27, 29, and 30; Sept. 18), Monterrey (Aug. 23), Querétaro (Sept. 2 and 3), Guadalajara (Sept. 6 and 7), Puebla (Sept. 11 and 12), and Veracruz (Sept. 24).

Shakira takes over Mexico City with record-breaking concert tour

Dubbed “The Queen of Latin Pop,” Shakira, of Lebanese descent, began her musical career in the early 1990s after signing a contract with Sony Music Colombia at the age of 14. Her first album, “Pies Descalzos” (1995), sold more than 4 million copies and established her place in the music industry. But it was her 2001 album “Laundry Service” (also her first bilingual album) that gave her international fame with the single “Hips Don’t Lie.”

Throughout her career, Shakira has fused Latin and Arabic rhythms with pop and other genres, becoming the best-selling Latin artist in history, with more than 95 million albums sold.

Currently, Mexican singer and superstar Luis Miguel holds the Billboard record for the highest-grossing Latin tour of all time, with over 2.2 million tickets sold throughout dozens of countries. Time will tell if Shakira’s current tour will steal this record by the end of her tour this year. 

With reports from Billboard and El Sol de México

The post Shakira has sold a record-breaking 1 million tickets in Mexico appeared first on Mexico News Daily

FASMA

 

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The most important summer arts festival in town. From August 1 to 17, enjoy over 100 cultural activities including concerts, exhibitions, theater, workshops, lectures, and literary presentations at various venues throughout the city. It features international collaborations and participation from local institutions such as the National Institute of Fine Arts, Museo La Esquina, Instituto Allende, Fábrica La Aurora, and the Public Library. For the full program, click here.

Date: August 1-17 
Location: Instituto Allende, Teatro Santa Ana, Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez, etc…
Cost: Depends on the event

Art Walk 

Fábrica La Aurora invites you on Saturday, August 2, to celebrate the traditional Art Walk, where you can mingle with artists and their works in an extraordinary atmosphere. Don’t miss live music at the factory’s restaurant either!

Date: Saturday, August 2, 5–7 p.m.
Location: Fábrica la Aurora s/n 
Cost: Free 

Zandunga: Gil Gutierrez and Friends

Zandunga is a charming countryside venue about 15 minutes from San Miguel de Allende, featuring live jazz and blues with guitarist Gil Gutíerrez and his wife, Rebecca. Much of the ranch was hand-built by Gil and friends, offering a delightful open-air setting blending indoor and outdoor spaces. Zandunga also hosts art exhibits, concerts, and private events, making it perfect for unique gatherings near San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato. Buy tickets at Hernández Macías 129 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 am to 3 pm.

Date: Sunday, August 3, 1–5 p.m.
Location: Rancho Zandunga
Cost: 800 pesos

The 8 Seasons of Vivaldi

A must for chamber music lovers, Casa Europa México presents “The 8 Seasons of Vivaldi and Piazzolla” featuring Adolfo Alejo and the Kukulkán Kamerata. Alejo, a leading figure in classical music in Mexico and recognized by Forbes as one of the “most creative Mexicans in the world,” captivates audiences with impeccable technique and deep expressiveness.  Tickets available online or at the Casa Europa México box office.

Date: Thursday, August 7, 7 p.m.
Location: Casa Europa México, San Francisco 23
Cost: 400 pesos

Folkloric Dance

If you love Mexican traditions and art, celebrate half a century of dance, color, and tradition with the Ballet Folklórico Representativo de San Miguel de Allende, founded in 1975 by Maestra Gloria Rodríguez Navarrete and officially recognized in 1998 as a representative group of the Casa de la Cultura. The troupe features three generations — children, youth, and adults — and has performed hundreds of shows in Mexico and abroad.

Date: Thursday, August 14, 6 p.m.
Location: Casa Europa Mexico, San Francisco 23 
Cost: 200 pesos 

Tribute to Mercedes Sosa

Get ready for an extraordinary and emotional night with Liliana Medrano in “Tribute to Mercedes Sosa” at Casa Europa México. Join on August 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM for a moving journey through the timeless music of “The Voice of Latin America.” Liliana Medrano is an acclaimed vocalist known for her powerful and authentic interpretations, reviving Mercedes Sosa’s legacy with talented musicians, promising a touching and unforgettable experience.

Date: Thursday, August 21, 7 p.m.
Location: Casa Europa México, San Francisco 23
Cost: 450 pesos

The Young Actors of San Miguel proudly present: Alice in Wonderland

Dive into a world of wonder with this charming theater adaptation of “Alice in Wonderland,” performed by young actors of San Miguel de Allende. Follow Alice on her whimsical journey after the White Rabbit, meeting eccentric characters like the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts. This family-friendly English show features imaginative costumes, magic, and fun for all ages. Presented Friday and Saturday, August 22 and 23 at 6 p.m. at Teatro Santa Ana de La Biblioteca. Entry by donation of 220 pesos. Don’t miss it!

Date: Friday and Saturday, August 22 and 23, 6 p.m.

Location: Teatro Santa Ana de La Biblioteca

Cost: 220 pesos 

Literature Seminar

Mexican writer Julián Herbert presents his book Overol. Notes on recent Mexican narrative in conversation with Carmen Rioja as part of the Literature Seminar at the Public Library.

Date: Saturday, August 23, 1 p.m.

Location: Teatro Santa Ana de La Biblioteca

Cost: Free

Viva la vid

The grape harvest season begins. Save the date for Saturday, August 30, for an unforgettable experience in San Miguel’s vineyards. Enjoy delicious food, live music plus a DJ, unlimited wine, a welcome kit, and participate in the traditional grape stomping. Buy tickets soon, as space is limited.

Date: Saturday, August 30 
Location: Viñedo San Miguel, Carretera Comonfort San Miguel de Allende #1, 38206 Comonfort, Gto
Cost: 2,700 pesos

The post What’s on in San Miguel de Allende in August? appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Olvera, 21, overcame a poor third dive to surge past his two Chinese rivals with his next three dives, including a fifth dive of 102.60 points, and a flawless finish. 

Osmar Olvera was flawless all day, even in the sixth round, he didn’t flinch

His reward? A well-earned gold in the 3m Springboard! #Diving #AQUASingapore25 pic.twitter.com/cYyTOOEQci

— World Aquatics (@WorldAquatics) August 1, 2025

The Mexico City native finished with 529.55 points over six dives, edging four-time Olympic gold medalist Cao Yuan (522.70) who is also an 11-time World medalist, and three-time reigning World champion Wang Zongyuan, who scored 515.55.

Olvera became the first non-Chinese diver to win this event since Canada’s Alexandre Despatie won in 2005.

“I feel amazing,” Olvera said. “It’s a dream come true, to be a world champion … in an Olympic event.”

Olvera said he’ll now focus on maintaining his gold-medal form in order to continue battling the Chinese divers who have dominated these events, including a gold medal sweep at the Paris Olympics last year and taking seven out of eight golds at the two previous Olympics.

The Mexican diver’s victory is by no means a surprise. He won the 1-meter springboard competition at the 2024 World Championships in Doha and has eight career Worlds medals, including four this year in Singapore. 

Olvera also won bronze in the 3-meter springboard event at the Paris Olympics last year as well as a silver in the 3-meter synchronized springboard competition.

Olvera’s gold on Friday was the sixth diving medal for Mexico at the Worlds, behind only China’s 14 and well ahead of the rest of the pack, including the USA’s one.

The path to gold for Olvera at the Worlds was not easy. 

Wang was first and Cao was second in every round of the semifinals. But, according to Swimming World Magazine, Olvera leaped ahead in the finals with the best dive in each of the first two rounds.

Olvera wobbled in Round 3 and was in third place after four rounds. Then came what Swimming World Magazine called “the best dive of the final and maybe the meet writ large.”

The Mexican nailed a forward 4 1/2 somersault dive in a pike position to move a half-point ahead of Cao. He clinched the gold medal with the best dive of the final round — a forward 2 1/2 somersault dive with three twists, performed in a pike position . It earned 97.50 points.

“I felt a lot of pressure [on the sixth dive],” Olvera said afterward. “I knew I needed a great dive, so I just focused, controlled myself and did my job.”

During her daily morning press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum showed reporters a video of the event and applauded Olvera’s triumphant performance.

In a chat with El Universal newspaper afterward, Olvera thanked Mexican fans who followed his performance despite the time difference with Singapore, sharing an emotional message with them.

“Thank you to all those who supported me, to all of Mexico who stayed up all night to cheer me on, thank you for sending the best vibes,” he said. “And to those of you who didn’t, I ask you to support me too, because Mexico isn’t just about soccer.”

With reports from ESPN, El Universal and Swimming World Magazine

The post Mexican diver Osmar Olvera ends China’s run with a 3m springboard gold at the World Aquatics Championships appeared first on Mexico News Daily

World Press Photo 2025

The world’s leading international photojournalism competition returns once again to its home venue, the Franz Mayer Museum. For the 68th edition, the awarded photographers from around the globe were tasked with addressing several political, cultural, and climate-related conflicts. Out of roughly 59,320 documentary photographs, only 42 works were selected this year.

Date: Aug. 1 to Sept. 28
Location: Franz Mayer Museum. Av. Hidalgo 45, Centro, Cuauhtémoc.
Cost: 100 pesos for adults; 60 pesos for students, teachers and seniors

Gabriel Orozco: Politécnico Nacional

For the first time in almost 20 years, the Jumex Museum brings together an ambitious solo exhibition by Mexican multidisciplinary artist Gabriel Orozco. Born in Xalapa, Veracruz, Orozco has always been fascinated by objects and materials of everyday life, which confer “the possibility of giving materiality to time.” The exhibition features 300 works from throughout Orozco’s artistic career, “from small sculptures to complex installations, between photography and drawing, accompanied by painting, sculpture, assemblages and games.” 

Date: Runs until Aug. 3
Location: Museo Jumex. Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo.
Cost: Free of charge 

From the heart of the barrio. Tepito: deep roots, resonant voices

Beyond being a “barrio bravo,” Tepito is one of Mexico City’s most emblematic cultural districts — and it resonates with the voices of its emerging artists. This comes to show in “Desde el corazón del barrio,” a group exhibition that brings together more than 20 artists “who live, create, or maintain close ties to the Tepito neighborhood.” With over 80 pieces in various formats, the exhibition aims to highlight artistic practices linked to a historically stigmatized community, reclaiming its heritage and present through art.

Date: Runs until Aug. 3
Location: Galería José María Velasco. Peralvillo 55, Morelos, Cuauhtémoc.
Cost: Free of charge 

Mayotzincuepa circus festival

Le Monastère, a cabaret company based in Montreal (Canada), starred in the opening show of the Mayotzincuepa Circus Festival. Spectators will enjoy aerial dance performances, clown acts and thrilling circus shows in several locations across town. As the inaugural event, the program has created high expectations among theater connoisseurs and performance artists as one of the largest performing arts programs this year.

Date: Runs until Aug. 4
Locations: Teatro de la Ciudad Esperanza Iris, FARO Cosmos and open-air theaters in the Iztacalco, Magdalena Contreras and Tlalpan boroughs
Cost: Free of charge

A summer among chinampas

In an effort to preserve the chinampera tradition in Xochimilco, over 500 years old, the Chinampaxóchitl Museum will host a summer course for children. Designed for ages 7 to 13, kids will learn about “the natural and cultural importance of the Xochimilco lake area and the chinampa zone,” said the museum in an Instagram post. The course includes four sessions, in which children will enjoy fun activities as they learn about the history and cultivation techniques used in the chinampas today. 

Date: Aug. 5-9
Location: Museo Chinampaxóchitl at Parque Ecológico de Xochimilco. Periférico Oeriente 1, Ciénaga Grande. Xochimilco.
Cost: Free of charge

Watch Itatí Cantoral’s ‘Juicio a una zorra‘

Mexican actress and cabaret performer Itatí Cantoral returns to the theaters with one of the “most challenging performances of [her] career,” according to TimeOut México. Staged and directed by Alonso Íñiguez, this provocative monologue portrays Helen of Troy, the eternally condemned woman from Homer’s Iliad, with a new voice. Inspired by gender struggles and critically examining how the Trojan princess has historically been condemned, Juicio a una zorra rewrites the myth from a female voice filled with fury and dignity.

Date: From July 20 to Aug. 31
Locations: La Teatrería. Tabasco 152, Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc.
Cost: Entrance fees may vary

Cri Cri symphonic concert

“El Ratón Vaquero”, “La Muñeca Fea” and other fan favorites will fill Sala Nezahualcóyotl concert hall this August. Performed by the Minería Symphony Orchestra, this concert will be an opportunity to hear the classics of maestro Francisco Gabilondo Soler, a Mexican composer and singer known for his children’s songs, as actor Mario Iván Martínez, nationally renowned for his children’s books readings, sings iconic Cri Cri pieces. 

Date: Aug. 9 & 30
Location: Sala Nezahualcóyotl. Insurgentes Sur 3000, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán.
Cost: Tickets starting at 400 pesos

Natsu Matsuri Festival 2025

Organized by the Mexico-Japan Association (AMJ), the Natsu Matsuri Festival is the capital’s yearly opportunity to taste genuine ceremonial matcha and try regional street food. Translated from Japanese as “summer festival,” the event features fashion runways, a culinary bazaar and tea ceremonies.

Massive drums and yukatas, Japan’s iconic ceremonial suit, will prance across the Natsu Matsuri Festival runway this year. Sipping on a delicious sample of traditional jasmine tea or Sapporo beer, spectators will enjoy a display of Bon Odori, the traditional dance of Japan. So, fetch your best kimono and stroll across Fujiyama Street to live your geisha fantasy at the Natsu Matsuri Festival. 

Date: Aug. 16-17
Location: Fujiyama 144, Águilas, Álvaro Obregón.
Cost: Workshop fees may vary

The Jazz Room: Journey to the Heart of New Orleans

Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong in CDMX?! Not exactly. Some excellent interpreters will come, though. Along with some cocktails and improv sessions, The Jazz Room comes to town after being a hit in Madrid, Barcelona and Santiago City. The ensemble will take us straight to the 20s in NOLA, birthplace of this iconic genre, to bring back the golden age of jazz.

Date: Aug. 16
Location: Hilton Santa Fe. Antonio Dovali Jaime 70, Santa Fe, Cuajimalpa.
Cost: Entrance fees vary

42nd Mexico City Marathon

As August comes to an end, runners from across the country will compete to beat their personal records on the Telcel Mexico City Marathon. As one of the major sporting events in the capital this year, the event is expected to attract thousands of runners. As stated by the Mexico City Government, the 2025 route will start on Avenida Insurgentes Sur, between the Central Library and the Olympic Stadium, and finish in the capital’s Zócalo.

Runners will enjoy iconic landmarks of Mexico City, including UNAM’s Olympic Stadium, the Angel of Independence, the Diana the Huntress roundabout and the Monument to the Revolution, among others.

Date: Aug. 31
Location: Follow the official route here
Cost: 800 pesos for Mexicans and residents and US $110 for foreign athletes

Andrea Fischer contributes to the features desk at Mexico News Daily. She has edited and written for National Geographic en Español and Muy Interesante México, and continues to be an advocate for anything that screams science. Or yoga. Or both.

The post What’s on in Mexico City in August 2025? appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Espaterra 

 

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Espadín y Tierra 2025, or Espaterra, seeks to preserve, promote and showcase the cultural, social and economic value of espadín mezcal, typically cultivated and produced by Oaxaca’s rural communities. The event is a space for meeting, memory and collective reflection of the 17 mezcal-producing regions of Oaxaca. Espaterra’s closing event, a colloquium on mezcal with researchers and palenqueros, including a screening of the documentary “45 grados: La industrialización del mezcal artensanal,” takes place on Aug. 1.

When: Aug. 1 at 10 a.m.
Where: UNAM-Oaxaca extension, Melchor Ocampo 102, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez
Cost: Free entry but attendees must register here 

Dia de Plaza del Mezcal

 

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This is the first edition of this moving event at Oruga, a photo gallery and mezcalería. “We are proud and happy to open the doors of this space to friends of the mezcal industry to share their knowledge, experiences and, of course, mezcal,” Oruga says. The event will include traditional mezcals from Indigenous communities.

When: Aug. 1 and 2
Where: Oruga, Av. José María Morelos 1207, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez
Cost: Free

Last days of the Feria Artesanal de Arrazola

San Antonio Arrazola is located 10 kilometers southwest of Oaxaca city, off the highway to Zaachila. Known as Arrazola, the community is famous for its beautiful alebrijes, figures made from different types of paper or carved and painted wood in bright, vibrant colors, representing fantastical jaguars, mermaids and nahuales. Although alebrijes are made using various techniques today, this community stands out for its use of wood carving, a skill passed down from generation to generation.

When: Until Aug. 3, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Andador Turístico de Arrazola
Cost: Free

San Mateo Mushroom Festival

 

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Each year, the municipality of San Mateo Río Hondo holds a festival to celebrate mushrooms. At over 2,300 meters above sea level in Oaxaca’s Sierra Sur, Río Hondo is a fertile land of beautiful, misty landscapes. During the rainy season, mushrooms of various sizes, shapes and colors flourish, marveling locals and foreigners alike, who are drawn from all over the country and the world to learn about, taste and benefit from the properties of these fungi. Magic mushrooms are also in season. Over the three days there will be workshops, foraging excursions and tasting events.

When: Aug. 1 through 3
Where: San Mateo Río Hondo
Cost: Details available here

Feria Artesanal del Barro Negro in San Bartolo

 

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San Bartolo Coyotepec is celebrating its Guelaguetza until Aug. 7. 30 minutes from Oaxaca city, just past the airport, San Bartolo is known for its tradition of black pottery. In the 1960s, a local artisan named Rosa Real Mateo de Nieto made a discovery that changed the local tradition: firing pieces at lower temperatures and then burnishing them with quartz before they were fully dry gave the fired clay a shiny, jet-black finish. More than half of San Bartolo’s population participates in black pottery production, and their annual fair celebrates this staple of the town’s culture.

When: Aug. 1 through 7, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: Mercado de Barro Negro “Plaza Artesanal,” Benito Juárez 37, San Bartolo Coyotepec
Cost: Free

Feast of Our Lady of the Angels

Our Lady of the Angels is celebrated at the Ex-Convento de los Siete Principes with religious activities, calendas, music and fireworks. The church and the attached former convent were built in the 18th century and currently house the Oaxaca House of Culture (CCO), a cultural center. While the feast is celebrated throughout the Catholic world, it holds special significance for Franciscans and their devotion to Our Lady of the Angels. In Mexico, various churches and chapels are dedicated to this apparition of Mary, reflecting the spread of Franciscan influence and devotion. 

When: Aug. 15 at 8 a.m.
Where: González Ortega 415, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez
Cost: Free 

José y el Toro plays Foro la Locomotora

 

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Venezuelan singer-songwriter José y el Toro has established himself as one of the new exponents of bolero in Latin America, revitalizing the genre with a unique fusion of classic and modern elements. Through his narrative style and ability to capture the essence of love and nostalgia, José has resonated deeply with audiences on social media. Songs like “Reloj Ingrato,” “Cuando Cuando” and “Nunca Fuimos” have demonstrated his talent for connecting with people’s emotions through his compositions.

When: August 9 at 8 p.m.
Where: Foro la Locomotora, Av. José María Morelos 1309, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez
Cost: 300 pesos

Day of the Taxi Driver

Taxi drivers decorate their cars with flowers and ribbons to parade through the city on Oaxaca’s Día del Taxista. It’s a loud celebration, with bands and fireworks starting early in the morning. 

The day is a chance for taxi drivers to celebrate their profession and for the community to acknowledge their role in transportation. Those in town should be aware that traffic will be affected.

When: Aug. 12, all day
Where: Across Oaxaca city
Cost: None

The Mazatecs through 20th-century German eyes

 

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At the beginning of the 20th century, German anthropologist Wilhelm Bauer traveled to Oaxaca to collect artifacts and information about the Mazatec people. His work now forms the Mazatec collection of the Ethnological Museum of Berlin, which collaborated with the Juan de Córdova research library to create “Presencia mazateca en Berlín: Tras las huellas de Wilhelm Bauer-Thoma, 1903-1908.” This exhibition presents information and records of these artifacts, as well as historical photographs and documents that will allow present-day Mazatec communities to learn about these records of their history through a traveling exhibition.

Location: Biblioteca de Investigación Juan de Córdova, Av. de la Independencia 904, Centro Oaxaca de Juárez
Date: Through Aug. 15
Cost: Free

Feast of the Assumption celebrations

The Feast of the Assumption is celebrated at the Catedral de Oaxaca in the heart of the city. Also known as the Church of the Assumption, construction on the church began in 1535, and it was consecrated in 1733. As the Cathedral’s name indicates, the Cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption. Assumption Day commemorates the belief that when Mary, mother of Jesus, died, with her body taken into heaven to be reunited with her soul. The day celebrating the feast of Assumption includes religious activities, calendas, music and fireworks.

When: Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Cathedral of the Assumption, Av. de la Independencia 700, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez

Blessing of the animals at Templo de La Merced

During the feast of San Ramón, people take their dressed-up pets to be blessed in the church of La Merced. It’s not just cats and dogs: there are birds, lizards, rabbits and sheep, among other critters. Many are dressed to impress, either in cute outfits or something more grand. To capture this fun tradition, I arrive early; If you get there around 3:30 p.m., you’ll be able to take pictures of the animals before the blessing begins. The blessing is a tradition rooted in honoring the service animals provide and seeking their good health and fertility.

When: Aug. 31 at 4 p.m.
Where: Templo de La Merced, Av. de la Independencia 1300, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez
Cost: Free

Anna Bruce is an award-winning British photojournalist based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Just some of the media outlets she has worked with include Vice, The Financial Times, Time Out, Huffington Post, The Times of London, the BBC and Sony TV. Find out more about her work at her website or visit her on social media on Instagram or on Facebook.

The post What’s on in Oaxaca in August? appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Here are the top events and concerts taking place in Guadalajara this August.

Lindsay Stirling on tour

American violinist, composer and dancer Lindsay Stirling will perform live in Guadalajara as part of her The Duality Tour 2025, in which she presents her latest album, Duality Deluxe. 

On this tour, Stirling fuses her violin virtuosity with dynamic choreography, performing well-known songs such as “Crystallize,” “Shatter Me” and “Elements,” as well as special versions of traditional Mexican songs such as “Cielito Lindo” and “Cómo Te Voy a Olvidar.”

Dates: August 6
Location: Telmex Auditorium. Obreros de Cananea 747, Complejo Belenes, Zapopan
Cost: Starting at 2,383 pesos (US $151)

Tesistán Corn Festival

The Tesistán Corn Festival is one of the most anticipated gastronomic and cultural festivals in Guadalajara, one that celebrates the region’s rich corn heritage. 

During the fair, visitors can sample a wide variety of corn products, including cooked and grilled corn, esquites — small cups of roasted corn kernels prepared with toppings like butter, mayonnaise, cheese and chile — homemade cornbread and many more. 

Dates: August 13-17
Location: Main Square of San Francisco Tesistán in Zapopan, Jalisco
Cost: Free

Maluma in Concert

Internationally acclaimed singer and Latin Grammy winner Maluma, recognized as one of the greatest exponents of contemporary Latin music, is back in Guadalajara as part of his international “Pretty + Dirty World Tour” on two consecutive dates in August. 

Fans can expect to hear the Colombian artist’s hits like “Felices los 4”, “Hawái” and “Borro Cassette.”

Dates: August 15 and 16
Location: Auditorio Telmex. Obreros de Cananea 747, Complejo Belenes, Zapopan
Cost: Starting at 7,894 for a VIP ticket (US $422)

Mexican alt-rock favorites Allison in concert

If you’re interested in exploring Mexican alternative rock music, this concert is your chance. Allison, one of Mexico’s iconic bands in the genre, is returning to Guadalajara to perform live their greatest hits. Made up of Erik, Fear, Alfie, and Diego, the band is known for songs like “Frágil,” “Memorama” and “Aquí.”

Dates: August 23
Location: Teatro Diana. Avenida 16 de Septiembre No. 710, Guadalajara, Jalisco
Cost: Starting at 1,280 pesos (US $42)

Reggae and ska legends Los Pericos

Argentine band Los Pericos, icons of Latin American reggae and ska, will come back to Guadalajara for a live performance as part of their 2025 international tour marking their 35-year career and the legacy of their album “Big Yuyo.”

You’ll hear some of Los Pericos’ most popular hits, including “Runaway,” “Waitin,” “El Ritual de la Banana,” “Pupilas Distantes” and “Me Late.”

Dates: August 24
Location: Teatro Diana. Avenida 16 de Septiembre No. 710, Guadalajara
Cost: Starting at 1,200 pesos (US $64) 

International Mariachi and Charrería Festival

One of Guadalajara’s most anticipated festivals every year is the Mariachi and Charrería International Festival, which celebrates some of the country’s most iconic traditions, both of which have been declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. 

Back for its 32nd edition, the festival will feature music, folklore, and charrería equestrian competitions all across Jalisco, with over 170 events planned. 

Charrería is Mexico’s national sport.

A highlight of the festival is the mariachi gala at Guadalajara’s Degollado Theater, where national and international groups perform alongside the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra. Other notable events include charrería championships and exhibitions at charro arenas (lienzos charros) across the Guadalajara metropolitan area and other municipalities throughout the state.

To see the full program, click here.

Dates: August 27 to September 7
Location: Several venues across Jalisco, including the Degollado Theater in Guadalajara
Cost: Varying prices

Kylie Minogue in concert

The iconic Aussie pop diva brings her Tension Tour 2025 to Guadalajara in August. The tour promotes her recent albums Tension and Tension II (released in 2023 and 2024), which include songs like “Taboo” and “Things We Do For Love.”

Fans can also expect to hear her iconic classics like “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” and “Come Into My World,” which earned her a Grammy in 2003.

Dates: August 24
Location: Auditorio Telmex. Obreros de Cananea 747, Complejo Belenes, Zapopan
Cost: Starting at $4,380 pesos (US $234)

Forest picnic with palReal chef Fabián Delgado

Calling all nature lovers to a guided tour led by biologist Daniel Bojórquez, which concludes with a picnic prepared by chef Fabián Delgado. Founder of one of Guadalajara’s most popular restaurants, palReal, Delgado is a self-taught chef who has enhanced the city’s culinary scene with his creative dishes in a variety of gastronomical projects. 

The experience includes beverages, food and a mushroom-printed manual.

Dates: August 9 and 23
Location: Bosque de la Primavera (Meeting point at entrance to the forest by Mariano Otero).
Cost: Starting at 1,990 pesos (US $106).

The post What’s on in Guadalajara in August? appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Agúndez and Estudillo finished second to the Chinese duo of Minjie Zhang and Yuxi Chen. Agúndez had won a bronze medal in this event at the 2020 Olympics, while Estudillo — a springboard specialist — is new to platform diving.

Also on Monday, 21-year-old Osmar Olvera earned his third silver medal at this year’s World Aquatics Championships, as he and teammate Juan Celaya finished second in the 3-meter synchronized springboard diving event.

Over the weekend, Olvera won silver in the men’s 1-meter springboard competition and teamed up with Randal Willars, Zyanya Parra and Estudillo to claim silver in the Mixed Team diving event.

With the three medals earned thus far in Singapore, Olvera has firmly established himself as the leader of what is fast becoming Mexico’s most accomplished diving generation. The Mexico City native now has seven World Championship medals (one gold, five silver and one bronze) as well as a silver and bronze at the 2024 Olympics.

Olvera now has his sights set on surpassing Joaquín Capilla, Mexico’s best diver ever. With four Olympic medals, Capilla was the first Mexican athlete to win medals at multiple Games. Capilla won gold and bronze in 1956 in Sydney, silver in 1952 in Helsinki and bronze at the 1948 London Games.

“Los Angeles is three years away and this is a great way to start the road to the [2028] Olympics,” Olvera said, referring to the site of the 2028 Summer Olympic Games.

Olvera still has two events remaining in Singapore — the individual 3-meter springboard competition and the mixed synchronized springboard event.

Precision and poise: China takes gold in the Men’s 3m Synchronised Final!

Mexico secures silver, and Great Britain lands bronze!#Diving #AQUASingapore25 pic.twitter.com/5uthTwRvGB

— World Aquatics (@WorldAquatics) July 28, 2025

Mexico’s performance in the Mixed Team event was the biggest surprise. Although Willars — an Olympian with five World Championship medals — and Estudillo are veterans on the world stage, Parra is a 15-year-old debutante.

Parra, who starred last year at the World Junior Diving Championships in Brazil, said her teammates helped make her comfortable during the event. 

“Osmar kept me calm the whole time and Randal shared tips with me to keep me from getting nervous,” she said.

Parra will be Olvera’s teammate in the mixed synchronized springboard competition.

Teen twins Mía and Lía Cueva will also be chasing a medal for Mexico, competing in the women’s synchronized 3-meter springboard event. The 14-year-olds teamed up to win silver at the World Aquatics Diving World Cup in Guadalajara in April. 

Artistic swimmer Diego Villalobos secured Mexico’s first medal at the World Aquatics Championships on July 20. The 20-year-old earned bronze in the men’s solo technical event at the Singapore Sports Hub, finishing just 13 points behind Russian gold medalist Aleksandr Maltsev.

The championships come to an end on Aug. 3.

With reports from La Jornada, El Universal and Riviera Maya News

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That’s not to say, however, that there aren’t plenty of things worth doing, and this seems an opportune time to spotlight some of the smaller, often recurring events at area hotels, resorts, bars and restaurants.

Cooking class at Acre

Not only does this class offer the opportunity to tour the property of one of the most acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants in Los Cabos, but it also provides participants with a chance to learn how to prepare a few delicious Mexican specialties from scratch. 

Dates: Weekdays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. in August
Location: Acre Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, C. Rincón de las Animas, Animas Bajas, San José del Cabo
Cost: 2,100 pesos per person

Yoga + Mimosas at Drift

Best known as a 29-key boutique hotel in the heart of San José del Cabo’s Gallery District, Drift also prides itself on its weekly Yoga + Mimosas event, held each Saturday. The yoga and first mimosa are complimentary for those who RSVP, but rental mats for non-guests or brunch afterward at Drift Kitchen + Mezcal Bar are extra. 

Dates: Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Location: Drift, Miguel Hidalgo 613, Gallery District, San José del Cabo
Cost: The class is free, but RSVP to ensure space availability

Martini and Jazz Nights at Humo

 

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Some things never go out of style. For instance, jazz and martinis have each achieved classic and forever stylish status. Up to four signature examples of the iconic cocktail are featured on Saturday nights at elegant, Ritz-Carlton-based Humo.

Dates: Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Location: Zadún, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Blvd. Mar de Cortez, San José del Cabo
Cost: Call (624-172-9000) for reservations

Fiesta Mexicana at Playa Grande

Playa Grande, a beachfront resort under the Grupo Solmar banner, celebrates traditional Mexican music and dancing each Monday night with its Fiesta Mexicana. Mexican culinary favorites are also featured, with tacos and margaritas headlining the buffet and open bar.

Dates: Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Playa Grande, Playa Grande 1, Cabo San Lucas
Cost: US $52 for adults, free for children 5 and under

Hook and Cook at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica

If you can’t catch dinner while shore fishing in the Pacific Ocean at luxury resort Pueblo Bonito Pacifica, don’t worry. Your chef guide has fresh fish and ceviche to serve up for this memorable breakfast activity.

Dates: Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27
Location: Pueblo Bonito Pacífica Golf & Spa Resort, Previo Paraíso Escondido, Cabo San Lucas
Cost: Call the resort for reservations and details (624-142-9696)

World’s 50 Best, Guest Bartender Claudia Cabrera, at Viceroy

Viceroy Los Cabos has been showcasing cocktails from some of the world’s best bartenders this summer. In June, it was Kevin Tocino from Aruba Day Drink in Tijuana. This August, it’s Claudia Cabrera from Kaito del Valle in Mexico City.

Dates: Aug. 7
Location: Viceroy Los Cabos, Zona Hotelera, San José del Cabo
Cost: Open to guests of the resort, rates start at US $500 per night

Boogie Nights at Rooftop 360

Retro music from the 1980s and ’90s rules during weekly Boogie Nights at Rooftop 360, the bar with spectacular views set above Playa El Médano at Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa. Women enjoy two-for-one prices on domestic drinks from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Dates: Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28
Location: Corazón Cabo Resort, Pelicanos 225, Col. El Médano Cabo San Lucas
Cost: No cover charge

Chris Sands is the Cabo San Lucas local expert for the USA Today travel website 10 Best, writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook and a contributor to numerous websites and publications, including Tasting Table, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, Porthole Cruise, Cabo Living and Mexico News Daily. His specialty is travel-related content and lifestyle features focused on food, wine and golf.

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