August Events

August 15th - Dia de la Asuncion de la Virgen Guadalupe (Ascension Day)

Celebrated nationally, this is one of Mexico's most important religious events. The Virgin Guadalupe is extremely important and revered by Mexican Catholics her image, next to a crucifix, is everywhere in Mexico. 

Special masses and processions take place nationwide, with a huge mass at the Basilica de Guadalupe (where the original image is hosted) in Mexico City. December 12, 1531 was the day the Virgin appeared to Juan Diego a Mexican Indian. The original shrine (Basilica) was finished in 1709 but became dangerous when it started sinking on it foundations. 

A new round shrine was built from 1974-76 and the image of the Virgin can be seen from anywhere in the church. In the colonial city of Aguascalientes, a monument in honour of the Virgin Guadalupe is decorated and the city hosts a special Mass and processions take place downtown in which all of the city's churches are represented.

August 1st - 15th - San Miguel de Allende - International Chamber Music Festival,

San Miguel is famous for non-stop festivals and parties all year-round and this is one of its most famous, and most widely attended.  The festival lasts for a fortnight.