Mexico Celebrates Tradition in Vibrant Guerrero Festival
The bustling streets of Chilpancingo, the capital of Guerrero, once again came alive with color, music, and tradition as the Paseo del Pendón marked its 199th edition. This iconic parade, filled with traditional dances and cultural pride, signals the beginning of the Feria de San Mateo, Navidad y Año Nuevo, bringing together communities nationwide to celebrate heritage and joy.
A Historic Festival of Unity and Peace
The Paseo del Pendón is more than just a parade; it’s a historic celebration deeply rooted in Guerrero’s identity. This year, the event brought together hundreds of dancers from 144 traditional groups, representing 63 of the state’s 85 municipalities. Among the colorful banners leading the procession, one stood out—a white standard emblazoned with a dove and the words “Por la PazPaz,” a symbol of hope and unity for the region.
As the region’s biggest festival, families prepare for the parade several days before. Streets have chairs, and temporary tents and balconies have become great places to watch. The event offers a feast for the senses, with brightly colored costumes, rhythmic music, and the excitement of thousands watching.
This year’s parade started with Guerrero’s governor, Evelyn Salgado Pineda, and local mayor Gustavo Alarcón Herrera at the front. Behind them, representatives from Chilpancingo’s four original neighborhoods followed: San Mateo, San Francisco, San Antonio, and La Santa Cruz. Each neighborhood brought its own special energy and traditions, adding to the festival’s rich tapestry.
A Living Heritage
The dances of the Paseo del Pendón are the soul of the Paseo. And all the dances are a manifestation of Guerrero’s cultural diversity. This year, the famous Tlacololeros were at the head of the pack. Everyone looked at their palm hats with marigolds or brightly colored blooms. These Latina dancers, native to the central part of the country, are a family relic of Guerrero’s heritage.
Other performances included the dramatic Los Moros, the playful Los Manueles, and the fierce Los Tigres from Chilapa and Zitlala. From the lively Chilenas of Acapulco to the mesmerizing Sones de Tabla from Ayutla, each group showcased the unique traditions of their communities. The Diablos of Teloloapan brought an air of mischief, while the Toro de Petate from Ometepec entertained with its intricate movements.
The parade culminated in the Belisario Arteaga bullring, where the highly anticipated Porrazo del Tigre occurred. This classic wrestling contest features competitors dressed as tigers from the four neighborhoods of Chilpancingo in an energetic face-off. The champion gains bragging rights for the year, representing the power and toughness of their community.
A Festival Beyond the Parade
While the dances highlight the Paseo del Pendón, the celebration spreads far beyond the parade path. Streets and roads stay closed long after the final dancer goes by as the city continues to enjoy the lively mood. Traditional music gives way to modern tunes, and the vibrant energy of Chilpancingo’s residents keeps the party alive.
A crucial part of the festivities is Mezcal, Guerrero’s traditional spirit. For many dancers, a sip of mezcal helps ease the weight of their elaborate costumes and the exhaustion of the day’s activities. It is a traditional feature of the festival, which shows the local peculiarity in cultural practices.
The crowd was rousing, but the show was still safe and controlled. Guerrero’s administration prepared a comprehensive security and defense scheme, assisted by the National Guard and Chilpancingo’s local police command. As a result, the Secretaría de Seguridad Pública reported no incidents, allowing attendees to enjoy the festivities worry-free.
Resilience and Revival Amid Challenges
The Paseo del Pendón has only been suspended once in its nearly two-century history, in 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Its return to the streets of Chilpancingo shows how strong and determined the people of Guerrero are. This year’s event celebrated customs and the strength of a community that stays together despite challenges.
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For the people of Guerrero, the Paseo del Pendón is more than just a festival ‒ a celebration of who they are, their past, and their hopes. As the parade moves through Chilpancingo’s streets, it carries the spirit of a region rich in culture and very proud. Through colorful dances, heartfelt music, and shared happiness, the Paseo del Pendón inspires and brings together generations, making sure Guerrero’s traditions probably live on.
