Radisson Hotel And Suites Guatemala City

Guatemala has had a topsy-turvy history in regards to political upheaval and change. This public holiday, held every...

Guatemala has had a topsy-turvy history in regards to political upheaval and change. This public holiday, held every November 20, is much like America's Independence Day and marks the successful revolutions that brought freedom to the Guatemalan people. The holiday commemorates the overthrow of a military dictatorship in the 1940s with marches and parades, street parties, traditional food and music and neighborhood celebrations. Events throughout the city last during the day and into the evening.

Hours: Tue, Nov 20, 2012

Likely the largest annual event to take place in the city, this week of religious observances and cultural events is...

Likely the largest annual event to take place in the city, this week of religious observances and cultural events is marked by a procession that showcases the life and culture of the indigenous populations. Marchers carry rainbow-colored carpets in a grand procession that mixes native religious observances with more modern Christian traditions. Locals have been hosting Easter Week observances since the mid-1940s, and travelers will marvel in the colorful display and events throughout the week.

Hours: Sun, Apr 1, 2012 Mon, Apr 2, 2012 Tue, Apr 3, 2012 Wed, Apr 4, 2012 Thu, Apr 5, 2012 Fri, Apr 6, 2012 Sat, Apr 7, 2012 Sun, Apr 8, 2012

The first day of May has long been celebrated in countries around the world to honor workers. Like America's Labor Day,...

The first day of May has long been celebrated in countries around the world to honor workers. Like America's Labor Day, May Day events center on family and community celebrations, regional cuisines, parades and general merriment. Workers from around the country converge on Guatemala City to mark the holiday with parties, traditional music, fireworks and events. A great time to be in the city, when vibrant communities come together for fun and merriment.

Hours: Tue, May 1, 2012

This city-center annual event is held on Columbus Day. As in many Central and South American countries, Columbus' role...

This city-center annual event is held on Columbus Day. As in many Central and South American countries, Columbus' role here in impacting ancient civilizations is hotly debated, and many take this time as an opportunity to celebrate the cultures and communities that thrived before the explorer's discovery of the New World. Still, visitors to the city during the event can enjoy a display of culture, customary arts, festive music and delicious traditional foods prepared specifically for the event.

Hours: Mon, Oct 8, 2012

November 1 -- the day after All Hallows Eve or Halloween -- is traditionally a popular holiday for Spanish-speaking...

November 1 -- the day after All Hallows Eve or Halloween -- is traditionally a popular holiday for Spanish-speaking countries, and Guatemala is no different. The city hosts a lavish festival that honors those who have passed. Locals build colorful kites and spectacular exhibits to commemorate the dead. In addition to the more expansive events, guests will enjoy the variety of native music, cultural displays and delicious traditional foods that are served up for the event each year.

Hours: Thu, Nov 1, 2012

Holiday celebrations are kicked off each year with an end-of-November parade in the city and events build through the...

Holiday celebrations are kicked off each year with an end-of-November parade in the city and events build through the 25th of December. Revelry, fireworks and street celebrations mark the week leading up to the religious and social holiday as the city festoons itself in decorations, and shops spruce up for the festivities. Special foods are prepared and the traditional tamale is the centerpiece of seasonal feasts. Travelers find that Christmas celebrations in this capital city are always festive and welcoming.

Hours: Sat, Dec 1, 2012 Sun, Dec 2, 2012 Mon, Dec 3, 2012 Tue, Dec 4, 2012 Wed, Dec 5, 2012 Thu, Dec 6, 2012 Fri, Dec 7, 2012 Sat, Dec 8, 2012 Sun, Dec 9, 2012 Mon, Dec 10, 2012 Tue, Dec 11, 2012 Wed, Dec 12, 2012 Thu, Dec 13, 2012 Fri, Dec 14, 2012 Sat, Dec 15, 2012 Sun, Dec 16, 2012 Mon, Dec 17, 2012 Tue, Dec 18, 2012 Wed, Dec 19, 2012 Thu, Dec 20, 2012 Fri, Dec 21, 2012 Sat, Dec 22, 2012 Sun, Dec 23, 2012 Mon, Dec 24, 2012 Tue, Dec 25, 2012 Wed, Dec 26, 2012 Thu, Dec 27, 2012 Fri, Dec 28, 2012 Sat, Dec 29, 2012 Sun, Dec 30, 2012 Mon, Dec 31, 2012

Like all national and religious holidays held through the country and in the heart of Guatemala City, the coming of the...

Like all national and religious holidays held through the country and in the heart of Guatemala City, the coming of the New Year is celebrated with spirited events that highlight the local culture, music, arts and culinary traditions of the country. Songs, revelry and sky-lighting fireworks displays highlight the annual event. For travelers here during the celebrations, the best place to watch the goings-on is in the Plaza Mayor in the heart of the city, but celebrations are held around the city and many spots will offer a good street-level view of the revelry.

Hours: Mon, Dec 31, 2012 Tue, Jan 1, 2013