Easter week is one of the most important in the Catholic calendar. Although processions take place in every town, the most colourful can be found in the capital as well as in Antigua Guatemala. Guatemala is home to the largest indigenous population in the whole of Latin America (over half of the total population), so traditions and customs have a very strong local influence. A mix of Mayan and Christian imagery can be seen marching through the streets in an impressive parade. Very few countries in Latin America have kept to such Easter traditions. The first of these processions took place on March 10th 1943 and there has been one every year ever since.

Held in the town of Cobán, this is probably the most impressive festival of Indian Traditions in Guatemala. This fiesta is celebrated throughout the region by the indigenous Kekchis, who wear their traditional costumes and dance the traditional Paabanc.

Assumption day in Guatemala is a public holiday and a time for family gatherings and sumptuous feasts. In some of the main cities, you’ll see street parades and be invited to many parties. In the smaller towns however, it is common for people to have quieter celebrations and use the day as a time for reflection.