March 2018 Events in Sonora, Mexico

March 2018 is during the Lenten season, and many of Sonora’s indigenous groups hold ceremonies, processions and other observances that culminate in the last week of the month – Semana Santa (Holy Week), the week before Easter Sunday.

For example, in many Mayo and Yaqui pueblos, a “Conti” is held every Friday during Lent, when fariseos, church representatives and the community gather for a reunion and procession to the stations of the cross.

9 – 10

Vino Litoral 2018
San Carlos

An annual event that promotes the culture of wine and seafood. Features wines from 25 Baja California wineries, the participation of more than 20 restaurants, art exhibitions and various conferences and workshops. More information.

15 – 18

Festival Internacional de Cine Álamos Mágico
Alamos

An international film festival held every March in the beautiful Southern Sonoran pueblo of Alamos, Sonora. More information.

19

Fiestas of the Patron Saint of San José de Bácum
Bácum
Rosario Tecopaco

21

Natalicio de Benito Juarez – Benito Juarez’s Birthday
A national public holiday, celebrated on March 21.

Benito Juarez went from humble beginnings as a Zapotec Indian to become Mexico’s only indigenous president. Juarez enacted many social advancements, such as establishing free and mandatory education and establishing the separation of church and state, and is often referred to as the Abraham Lincoln of Mexican presidents.

First Day of Spring
National Mexican holiday

To commemorate the birthday of Benito Juarez and herald the arrival of Spring, in some cities such as Caborca, children dress in festive costumes and parade down one of the town’s main streets.

25 – 31

Semana Santa – Holy Week

Nationwide, the week prior to Easter Sunday. Most festivities take place during the week leading up to Easter, but many people have the following week, known as La Pascua, off as well, making it a two-week holiday.

Religious processions and other activities are common, but for most Sonorans, it is time to enjoy their spring vacation at the beach or by a river.

The two weeks of Semana Santa are a very busy travel time, so if you plan to visit Sonora during the last week of March, make your plans and reservations well in advance, and be prepared for travel congestion and delays (especially at the border).

25 – April 1

Festival Cultural Profesor Enrique Quijada Parra
Ures
An annual cultural festival held in and around Plaza Zaragoza in Ures, Sonora. More information.

29 – 30

Festival Cultural de La Costa
Kino Bay