San Roque Festivities of 2025 in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas
In the heart of Chiapas, Mexico, the vibrant city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez comes alive with the annual Fiestas Patronales de San Roque y San Bartolomé Apóstol, a 17-day celebration that takes place from August 8 to August 24, 2025.
This year-long anticipated event is a harmonious blend of religious, cultural, and social activities, serving to preserve indigenous traditions, foster neighborhood unity, and promote tourism in Chiapas.
The festivities kick off with the Misa Solemne in honor of San Roque, followed by a special celebration for San Bartolomé Apóstol. The programme is rich and varied, covering processions, misas, traditional offerings such as the consumption of pozol, confirmations, primeras comuniones, and artistic and cultural events.
Cultural highlights include the coronation of festival queens, nightly concerts, and parades through historic chapels. One of the most emblematic acts is the offering and consumption of pozol, a traditional maize-based drink that symbolizes hospitality and generosity. The Blessing of Pets, a tradition that commemorates the dog that, according to legend, took care of San Roque during his illness, also forms part of the celebrations.
The arzobispo de Tuxtla Gutiérrez participates in important masses, such as those on the 10th and 24th of August, reinforcing the religious character of the event. The celebrations are also promoted as family-friendly spaces, free of alcohol and violent music, emphasizing respect and peaceful coexistence among generations.
The Fiestas de San Roque and San Bartolomé are more than just a festival; they represent a deep tradition of faith and community in Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the events and experience the warmth, flavor, and faith that define this emblematic city during this festive season.
While the Fiestas Patronales de San Roque y San Bartolomé are a joyous occasion, it is important to remember that the city, along with San Cristóbal de las Casas and Palenque, has reported COVID-19 infections. It is crucial for everyone to prioritize safety and follow health guidelines during the celebrations.
As the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez gears up for this year's Fiestas Patronales de San Roque y San Bartolomé, one cannot help but feel the sense of anticipation and excitement in the air. These festivities not only celebrate the patron saints of the city but also the rich cultural heritage, vibrant community spirit, and enduring traditions that define Tuxtla Gutiérrez.
