In january the island parties

The decoration for this season is as colorful as each one of its elements of the Island of Flores and its street turn into a real celebration in which residents and visitors share, besides the religious fervor, the joy of central american culture.

Petén posseses a mixed culture that has inherited a large portion of Spanish and Indigenous traditions. The catholic influence plays an important role in its idiosyncrasy and identity, reason why one other most important events for its residents is the patronal holiday dedicated to the Black Christ of Esquipulas.

4 centuries of tradition

The Black Christ of Esquipulas is a religious figure of more than 400 years old that represents the faith of hundreds of people from Guatemala and neighboring countries, reason why it’s worshiped in different parts of the country.

The people of Petén have known how to combine the religious fervor with other cultural local traditions, achieving a celebration of various days, very recommended for visitors looking to know deeper this zone of the country. This holiday starts on January 6th with the election of the Sac-Nicté Queen.

History and Folklore

The Chatona dance and the little horse are other cultural manifestations of the area. Both tell popular stories related to characters and events of Petén. Both locals and visitors can enjoy these shows freely.

Parades, concerts, sporting activities and dances also take part in this celebration, filling the ambience with joy and tradition. If you’re planing to visit Petén, we recommend taking into consideration the first weeks of January, to experience its culture in its maximum splendor.