04 de Enero
Parish of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Chiapa de Corzo
The Fiesta Grande of Chiapa de Corzo is one of the most emblematic celebrations of Chiapas and one of the most representative cultural expressions in Mexico. Every year, from January 4 to 23, the city fills with music, dance, crafts, traditional cuisine, and religious ceremonies that reflect the region’s historical and mestizo richness. During this period, the community honors the Lord of Esquipulas, Saint Anthony the Abbot, and especially Saint Sebastian, the municipality’s patron saint.
The festivity acquires a unique character thanks to its traditional figures: the parachicos—wearing ixtle headdresses, colorful sarapes, chinchines, and wooden masks—whose dance is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity; the chiapanecas with their vibrant embroidered dresses; the chuntaes; and the tuxtlequitas. The streets fill with sones, foot-stomping dances, and a festive energy that invites visitors to join in and experience this authentic and colorful celebration up close.
Among the most representative moments are the Parachicos parade, the procession of floats led by the figure of María de Angulo—whose legend explains the origin of the parachicos—and the traditional Naval Combat, a fireworks display that lights up the Grijalva River on the night of January 21. The festivity concludes with the traditional comida grande (“great feast”), a community event that strengthens ties between residents and visitors.
The origins of the parachicos are linked to the story of gratitude toward María de Angulo, who, according to tradition, found a cure for her son in the region’s thermal waters and, in gratitude, shared her fortune with the community. In return, the townspeople danced “para el chico” (“for the boy”), thus giving name to this iconic tradition. Meanwhile, the departure of the Chuntaes on January 8 marks the beginning of the celebration and commemorates the servants of María de Angulo, who distributed food during times of scarcity.
Visiting Chiapa de Corzo during these dates offers an unforgettable experience. From Tuxtla Gutiérrez—just 20 minutes away—or from the airport, 30 minutes away, access is easy. Visitors should note that vehicular traffic is restricted during the main festival days, with parking available in peripheral areas.
The Fiesta Grande of Chiapa de Corzo is a living celebration, a meeting with the tradition, identity, and joy of the people of Chiapas. An essential event for anyone who wishes to discover the cultural spirit of the state.
The festivity acquires a unique character thanks to its traditional figures: the parachicos—wearing ixtle headdresses, colorful sarapes, chinchines, and wooden masks—whose dance is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity; the chiapanecas with their vibrant embroidered dresses; the chuntaes; and the tuxtlequitas. The streets fill with sones, foot-stomping dances, and a festive energy that invites visitors to join in and experience this authentic and colorful celebration up close.
Among the most representative moments are the Parachicos parade, the procession of floats led by the figure of María de Angulo—whose legend explains the origin of the parachicos—and the traditional Naval Combat, a fireworks display that lights up the Grijalva River on the night of January 21. The festivity concludes with the traditional comida grande (“great feast”), a community event that strengthens ties between residents and visitors.
The origins of the parachicos are linked to the story of gratitude toward María de Angulo, who, according to tradition, found a cure for her son in the region’s thermal waters and, in gratitude, shared her fortune with the community. In return, the townspeople danced “para el chico” (“for the boy”), thus giving name to this iconic tradition. Meanwhile, the departure of the Chuntaes on January 8 marks the beginning of the celebration and commemorates the servants of María de Angulo, who distributed food during times of scarcity.
Visiting Chiapa de Corzo during these dates offers an unforgettable experience. From Tuxtla Gutiérrez—just 20 minutes away—or from the airport, 30 minutes away, access is easy. Visitors should note that vehicular traffic is restricted during the main festival days, with parking available in peripheral areas.
The Fiesta Grande of Chiapa de Corzo is a living celebration, a meeting with the tradition, identity, and joy of the people of Chiapas. An essential event for anyone who wishes to discover the cultural spirit of the state.
