Guatemala's Kite Festival
Guatemala’s Day of the Dead Kite Festival
Dates and Locations
Day of the Dead (All Saints’ Day): November 1st
Kite Festival: Primarily celebrated in Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepéquez, located in the Sacatepequez department, about 30 minutes from Antigua Guatemala.
About the Festival
Guatemala’s Day of the Dead uniquely blends indigenous Mayan traditions and Catholic beliefs. The kite festival is a central part of this celebration.
History of the Kite Festival
The tradition of flying giant kites during Guatemala’s Day of the Dead is deeply rooted in Mayan culture. It’s believed that the kites were initially used to scare away evil spirits that were thought to disturb the souls of the departed. Over time, the tradition evolved, and kites became symbols of communication with ancestors.
Here are some places to stay and eat near Sumpango, Guatemala:
  • Bosque Macadamia is a hotel in El Tejar, Guatemala, about 15 minutes from Sumpango. It has a 4.3-star rating on Google Maps.
  • Casa Carolina is a hotel in San Lucas Sacatepéquez, Guatemala, about 20 minutes from Sumpango. It has a 4.7-star rating on Google Maps.
  • Hacienda Encantada is a hotel in Sumpango, Guatemala. It has a 4.3-star rating on Google Maps.
  • Restaurante El Paraíso is a restaurant in Sumpango, Guatemala. It has a 4.3-star rating on Google Maps.
  • Restaurante San Agustín is a restaurant in Sumpango, Guatemala. It has a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps.
  • Restaurante, Vivero entre Flores is a restaurant in Sumpango, Guatemala. It has a 4.7-star rating on Google Maps.
  • Restaurante y Café Las Victorias is a restaurant in Sumpango, Guatemala. It has a 4.3-star rating on Google Maps.
Here are some additional tips for staying near Sumpango:
  • Book your accommodations and transportation in advance, as the area becomes crowded during the kite festival.
  • Consider staying in Antigua Guatemala, about 30 minutes from Sumpango, and taking a day trip to the kite festival. There are many more hotel and restaurant options in Antigua Guatemala.
  • Be prepared for crowds and traffic during the kite festival.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you will likely be doing a lot of walking.
  • Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Bring a camera to capture the amazing sights and sounds of the kite festival.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Guatemala! Guatemala’s Kite Festival