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Ixtapa shares its event calendar with Zihuatanejo, so most festivals happen in the older town or on the water between the two. The two headline dates are the Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival in March and the Sailfish International Fishing Tournament in May. Here’s the full year, month by month. The things to do in Ixtapa guide rounds out the attractions between festivals.
Events and Festivals in Ixtapa: January to April
Zihuatanejo International Guitar Festival (March)
Held from the first to the second Saturday of March, this festival brings classical, flamenco and Latin guitarists from Mexico and abroad for a week of concerts in venues across Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa. Most performances are free or low-cost, and the headline concerts sell out. Check zihuafest.com for the lineup each year. March is also prime best time to visit Ixtapa guide weather, so rooms book early.
Semana Santa and Easter Week (March or April)
Holy Week, the week before Easter, is Mexico’s busiest beach holiday. Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa fill with domestic travelers, the beaches get crowded, and hotels run at 90% occupancy or higher. The dates shift each year. If you aren’t traveling for the holiday itself, avoid this window; if you are, book months out. The where to stay in Ixtapa guide lists the hotels that fill fastest.
Events and Festivals in Ixtapa: May to August
Sailfish International Fishing Tournament (May)
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is rated one of the world’s top three sport-fishing destinations, and this tournament in May draws more than 200 boats and international anglers chasing sailfish, marlin and dorado. Weigh-ins happen at the Zihuatanejo pier most afternoons. Charter a panga for about 4,000 to 6,000 pesos (US$220 to 330) for a half day outside the tournament window. The Ixtapa travel guide has the destination overview.
Independence Day (September 15 and 16)
Mexico’s independence is marked on the night of September 15 with the Grito, a reenactment of the 1810 cry for independence, in the main squares of both Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa, followed by fireworks. September 16 brings parades. Note that September is also the rainiest month of the year; the Ixtapa weather by month guide has the full rainfall data.
Events and Festivals in Ixtapa: September to December
Dia de los Muertos (November 1 and 2)
Day of the Dead is observed across both towns with ofrendas (altars) in the main plaza, marigold displays and candlelit vigils in the cemeteries. Zihuatanejo’s municipal cemetery hosts the most atmospheric gathering on the night of November 1. It’s a respectful, family-focused tradition; dress modestly and ask before photographing people. The Ixtapa neighborhoods guide explains where each district’s celebration happens.
Fiestas Patronales of Our Lady of Guadalupe (December 12)
The feast of Mexico’s patron saint on December 12 brings processions, masses and fireworks, with the biggest celebrations at Zihuatanejo’s main church. Street food stalls line the plaza. It falls in the dry season, so it’s a pleasant evening event if you’re already in town for the Christmas and New Year peak.
Christmas and New Year (December)
From December 20 through January 2, Ixtapa’s resorts run full holiday programs with gala dinners and beach parties on New Year’s Eve. This is the single most expensive and crowded stretch of the year. If you want the fireworks without the price tag, book a hotel slightly off the beach, or come in early January after the rush leaves. The Ixtapa travel tips and FAQ guide has arrival and transfer details.
