The Mexican Space Agency has typically collaborated with other countries to implement its missions. (Government of Mexico)
A day after it was revealed that the director of the Mexican Space Agency (AEM) had submitted his resignation, President Claudia Sheinbaum dismissed rumors that she was shuttering the agency and invited Dr. Salvador Landeros to stay on.
El Universal newspaper reported Wednesday that Landeros had quit his post as AEM chief, explaining in a Jan. 24 resignation letter that he objected to “the government’s failure to give the agency the attention it deserves, both as regards budget and management.”
Dr. Salvador Landeros was picked by former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador to lead the Mexican Space Agency in 2019. A pioneer in the field, he was responsible for sending Mexico’s first generation of telecommunications satellites into orbit in 1985. (Government of Mexico)
Landeros also said that his complaints to the Digital Transformation and Telecoms Agency (ATDT) fell on deaf ears.
“I was told that [AEM] would disappear,” he wrote, “which I consider unfortunate considering all the work it took to create it.”
During her morning press conference on Thursday, Sheinbaum insisted it was all a misunderstanding, saying that the AEM was being folded into the MexSat program, Mexico’s satellite system.
“It’s not disappearing, it is being strengthened,” she said, explaining that the confusion was likely caused by the proposal of a name change for the new agency.
ATDT director José Merino was on hand to provide more details about the proposed merger.
“We have no intention of weakening the AEM,” Merino said, according to Expansión. “Instead, we are merging the two agencies to promote the president’s satellite project and boost ties with academia and [universities] … so as to enhance growth with regard to Mexico’s design capabilities and technology transfer.”
José Merino, head of Mexico’s Digital Transformation Agency, disputed Landeros’ suspicions that the Mexican Space Agency would be rendered redundant amid a merger with MexSat, the nation’s satellite system. (Galo Cañas Rodríguez/Cuartoscuro)
Neither Merino nor Sheinbaum addressed Landeros’ concerns about AEM’s budget, however.
The AEM saw its budget shrink considerably during the Andrés Manuel López Obrador administration.
In 2019, López Obrador’s first year in office, the AEM budget sat at 125.2 million pesos (US $6.1 million). Four years later, the annual budget had shrunk to 69.5 million pesos (US $3.4 million).
An audit carried out by the federal comptroller’s office (ASF) in 2022 noted that the failure to fund the AEM adequately was a risky proposition.
The ASF found that “[T]he limited regulatory, organizational and budgetary structure [at AEM] … not only puts the institutional objectives at risk but also hinders the consolidation and invigoration of the space program.”
Although AEM funding has held steady the past two years (73 million pesos in 2024 and 70 million pesos in this year’s budget), the agency has largely been an afterthought since Sheinbaum took office last October.
Astronaut Katya Echazarreta is expected to participate in the proposed mission, which is to include the launch of the first 100% Mexican telecommunications satellite to be developed through a partnership between the government, academic institutions and the private sector.
However, the last press release issued by AEM was published more than a month ago, and the agency’s social media account has since only been reposting about Sheinbaum’s presidential press conferences.
Although Merino and Sheinbaum called on Landeros to stay on the job, Sheinbaum also said that Landeros would be welcome to participate as an external consultant.
Verde turned heads at the 2024 Olympics when the middleweight took home Mexico's first silver medal in boxing since 1984. (Marco Alonso Verde/Facebook)
By going pro, Verde is setting his sights on a world title in the middleweight division. (Marco Verde/Facebook)
Verde reportedly will make his professional debut in May on the same card as super-middleweight champion Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, who is in talks for a title defense against International Boxing Federation super-middleweight champion William Scull, probably on the weekend right before Cinco de Mayo, which falls on a Monday this year.
Having compiled an amateur record of 43 wins and 7 losses, including 15 victories by knockout, Verde is now setting his sights on a world title in the middleweight division, which has a weight limit of 72.57 kilograms (160 pounds). His first pro opponent has yet to be determined.
“Ready for this new beginning. Amateur boxing is over, professional boxing is starting. I have always been told that I have what it takes,” Verde, who will turn 23 on Feb. 11, said during his press conference.
“There were beautiful moments as an amateur in the Central American and Pan American Games. But when I got on the podium in Paris, I felt that cycle was over,” said Verde in the company of manager Eddy Reynoso, who has managed Álvarez for years.
Verde, whose full name is Marco Alonso Verde Álvarez, won the gold medal in the 71 kg category at the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, and took home a silver medal in the 67 kg category at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
His route to the silver medal made him a national hero at home, as no Mexican boxer had won anything beyond a bronze medal in the Olympics since Héctor López’s silver in the 1984 Games in Los Angeles. Overall, Mexico has won 14 medals in Olympic boxing — including two golds and four silver — the country’s second most, behind diving, in any single Olympic event.
Verde’s manager thinks the sky is the limit for the 22-year-old Mazatlan native.
In the gold-medal bout in Paris, the left-handed Verde lost a unanimous decision to Uzbekistan’s Asadkhuja Muydinkhujaev. In the semifinals, he beat Great Britain’s Lewis Richardson in a 3-2 split decision by the five judges.
“He was already an Olympic medalist,” Reynoso said of Verde. “I have no doubt that if he stays disciplined and does things well, he will become a champion and a boxing star.”
Unlike Álvarez, whom Reynoso both manages and trains, Verde will continue to train with his longtime coach, Radamés Hernández, with Reynoso handling his career management.
Verde is aiming to follow in the footsteps of Mexican greats who have transitioned successfully from Olympic to professional boxing. This list includes Alfonso Zamora, a silver medalist in the 1972 Munich Olympics who went on to win a world bantamweight title, and López, a silver medalist at age 17 in 1984 who later was good enough to box in three world title bouts (losing each time).
Whether he can join the list of all-time Mexican greats that includes Álvarez, Julio César Chávez, Carlos “Cañitas” Zarate, Ricardo “Finito” López and Érik “El Terrible” Morales remains to be seen.
As for Verde’s yet-to-be-determined foe in May, Reynoso said, “We’re going to look for a good opponent according to his level. He’s already faced the best in the world as an amateur, so we want to test him in the professional arena.”
That means moving from the fast-paced, three-round format of amateur boxing to professional bouts ranging from four to 12 rounds.
“I need to calm down a bit,” Verde said. “I’m used to intense three-round fights, but now I have to be smarter, win round by round, and not rush it.”
Economic contraction at the end of 2024 puts Mexico on the verge of recession, according to Banco Base's lead economic analyst. (Cuartoscuro)
The Mexican economy contracted on a sequential basis for the first time in more than three years in the final quarter of 2024, according to preliminary data from national statistics agency INEGI.
Mexico’s GDP shrank 0.6% in the October-December quarter compared to the previous three-month period, INEGI reported on Thursday.
The quarter-over-quarter contraction was the first since the July-September quarter of 2021, and larger than the 0.2% economic decline forecast by economists surveyed by Reuters.
INEGI’s data showed that Mexico’s primary sector (agriculture, fishing and mining) contracted 8.9% between October and December compared to the previous quarter. The secondary or manufacturing sector also contracted, declining 1.2% compared to Q3, while the tertiary or services sector grew 0.2% on a sequential basis.
Gabriela Siller, director of economic analysis at Mexican bank Banco Base, said on X that the 0.6% quarter-over-quarter contraction “places Mexico on the verge of a recession.”
Andrés Abadía, chief Latin America economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, described the latest economic data as “terrible,” saying that it was “consistent with the overall story of slowing growth as the effect of tighter financial conditions hits harder and external conditions become less friendly.”
(Gabriela Siller Pagaza/X)
The new Mexican government led by President Claudia Sheinbaum was in office for the entire final quarter of 2024, having taken office on Oct. 1.
Annual growth in 2024 was well below 2%
INEGI’s data showed that the Mexican economy grew 0.6% on an annual basis in the final quarter of 2024, the slowest pace of annual growth since the first quarter of 2021 and well below the 1.2% consensus forecast of economists polled by Reuters.
Annual growth for 2024 as a whole was 1.5% in real terms and 1.3% in seasonally adjusted terms, INEGI said.
The Mexican peso was trading at 20.71 to the US dollar at 3:30 p.m. Mexico City time.
The Bank of Mexico’s benchmark interest rate is currently set at 10% after five cuts in 2024. The central bank’s board will hold its next monetary policy meeting on Feb. 6 and is widely expected to vote in favor of an additional cut, especially given the weak GDP data and an improving inflationary situation.
The October energy reform strengthened the role of the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and Pemex in the country's energy sector. (Moisés Pablo/Cuartoscuro)
Mexico is poised to reshape local energy markets with a reform that prioritizes state control of the sector and reduces the role played by private companies.
President Claudia Sheinbaum on Wednesday submitted six bills to Congress that would allow for public-private electricity generation projects, but only when the state holds a majority stake.
Sheinbaum’s proposals pull back on reforms to the Energy Law put in place by Peña Nieto, center, in 2013. His reforms made it easier for foreign energy companies to operate in Mexico. (Emiliano Ruval/Cuartoscuro)
Upon unveiling the proposal, Sheinbaum said the proposal would strengthen both the state-owned Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and the state-owned petroleum corporation Pemex, making them more efficient and transparent.
The legislation establishes that at least 54% of all electricity supplied to the national grid must be provided by the CFE, according to the news agency Reuters.
In October, Sheinbaum and her ruling Morena party approved sweeping changes to the country’s electricity and hydrocarbons industries by reclassifying state-owned enterprises Pemex and CFE from productive to public companies. It also allows the two companies to operate as monopolies since they are seen by the new law as operating for the social good.
Permits and contracts already authorized under current law would remain valid until they expire.
According to the Oil Price Information Service (OPIS), market sources say the latest change reflects a partial reversal of the energy reform implemented in 2013 by then-President Enrique Peña Nieto, who touted it as fostering greater competition between private and state-owned energy companies.
Sheinbaum went further, calling the new legislation transcendent and historic.
Sheinbaum said Thursday that the reforms “reclaim the public essence” of the Federal Electricity Commission and Pemex as guarantors of energy provision to Mexico’s people. (Galo Cañas Rodríguez/Cuartoscuro)
“It is indeed a reversal of Peña Nieto’s 2013 reform, whose objective was to privatize,” she said. “In fact, it is also a reversal of the 1992 reforms so as to reclaim the public essence of the CFE and Pemex as guarantors of energy provision as well as defending national sovereignty.”
The proposal reflects the policies promoted by Sheinbaum’s predecessor Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who sought to restore state control over energy.
Sheinbaum, who took office on Oct. 1, has pledged continuity with López Obrador’s policy preferences and has argued that national sovereignty requires the CFE to serve as the power sector’s main driver.
Both López Obrador and Sheinbaum have insisted the CFE is better positioned to provide services to the population than profit-maximizing private companies.
The energy reform bill’s text enshrines the CFE’s role as system guarantor while ordering the power system to operate under conditions that ensure reliability, Reuters reported.
Some of the bill’s elements, however, appear to go beyond Lopez Obrador’s unconditional defense of oil and gas and his oft-stated skepticism of green power. Sheinbaum — a trained physicist who studied energy engineering and climate change — has frequently said she favors more renewable energy, although she’s been vague on specifics.
Reuters reported that the draft of the bill stipulates that the national power system promote decarbonization and the transition away from fossil fuels, a policy that differs from that promoted by López Obrador.
The bill also requires self-supply permit holders to sell any surplus power they generate to the CFE, Reuters reported.
Valeria Vázquez, lead energy and resources partner at the global consulting firm Deloitte, told the OPIS blog that it is unclear how private companies will participate in hydrocarbons.
“The law now establishes Pemex and CFE as the main operators in the market with specific rules for private participation [that are] different from what we have today,” Vázquez said.
Although the energy reform guarantees Mexico’s state-owned energy companies preeminence in the Mexican market, most sources said it will at least provide clear operating rules for foreign firms wishing to operate in Mexico. (Rogelio Morales/Cuartoscuro)
The energy reform also imposes similar conditions on operations in Mexico’s states, which will be responsible for enacting implementing policies, according to Bernardo Cortés, a partner with the Cortés and Quesada law firm.
Cortés told the OPIS blog that the changes likely mean private companies will have fewer investment opportunities than when the 2013 reform was enacted.
Despite the skepticism, most sources said the energy reform should provide the benefit of establishing clear rules for operating in the market, according to the OPIS blog.
However, others argue that Mexico’s judicial reforms, along with the elimination of regulatory bodies that served to delineate the roles of the state, regulators, and state-owned companies in the market, have increased uncertainty for companies looking to invest in the country.
Though they are best known for their salsas, Grupo Herdez also produces ice cream, pasta and a wide variety of other processed foods in Mexico. (Hormel Foods)
Grupo Herdez, one of Mexico’s leading processed food companies, announced plans to invest between 1.5 billion and 2 billion pesos (US $73.3 million to 97.9 million) in Mexico this year.
In a report to the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) on Wednesday, Herdez explained that 500 million pesos (US $24.4 million) of this investment will be allocated to software migration for its enterprise resource planning (ERP), which manages core business processes.
In addition to its Mexicans salsas, Herdez produces sells a variety of products for brands like McCormick Mexico, Barilla Mexico and Helados Nestlé. (McCormick Mexico/Facebook)
The remaining funds would be destined to enhance export capacity for its salsas, install a new long pasta line for Barilla Mexico, and remodel stores in its Impulse division, which includes ice cream, coffee and canned foods.
The company, which produces and markets food brands such as Del Fuerte, McCormick Mexico, Helados Nestlé and Nutrisa, expects sales growth of 6% to 8% during 2025, with two-thirds of the projected growth in net sales coming from higher volumes.
The company’s Impulse division is expected to see the greatest growth, at an estimated rate of 19% to 21%. This would be followed by Herdez’s Preserves division, with an anticipated increase of 5% to 7%, and exports, which are expected to grow by 1% to 2%. According to the company’s preliminary figures for last year, net sales in 2024 were 37.4 billion pesos (US $1.8 billion).
Grupo Herdez anticipates pressures from rising costs, exchange rate fluctuations and higher operating expenses, especially in logistics, which is expected to put pressure on its operating margins and operating cash flow (EBITDA) this coming year.
However, the report said Herdez expects consolidated net profit to increase by 9% to 11% compared to 2024, driven by the normalization of avocado prices.
Grupo Herdez began operations in 1914. It currently has a portfolio of 1,500 products ranging from tuna, spices, guacamole, ice cream, mayonnaise, jams, honey, mole, mustard, pasta, organic items, ground tomatoes, homemade sauces, ketchup, tea and canned vegetables.
Other brands include Búfalo, Cielito Querido Café, Del Fuerte and Doña María.
The Mexican-food company also has operations in the United States, where it has become one of the fastest-growing companies in the authentic Mexican food industry. Its brands are sold in 21 countries, thanks to a network that includes 15 plants, 24 distribution centers and over 9,000 employees.
The USMCA has been a great success, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said Wednesday. (Cuartoscuro/Moisés Pablo Nava)
Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard emphasized the success of the USMCA free trade pact and underscored Mexico’s economic commitment to North America during remarks at the 85th annual general meeting of the American Society of Mexico (AmSoc) on Wednesday.
In conversation with AmSoc president Larry Rubin in Mexico City, Ebrard asserted that the USMCA — which superseded NAFTA in 2020 and is up for review in 2026 — “has been a great success.”
Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard speaks at Wednesday’s meeting of the American Society of Mexico. (Travis Bembenek/Mexico News Daily)
“I had a meeting the other day with various countries of the world, with their ambassadors [to Mexico] and they told me, ‘We don’t understand why you, the United States, Canada and Mexico, don’t realize that the agreement you have is the envy of everyone,” he said.
“The free trade agreement signed in 2019, 2020, between that date and now, made trade and investment increase 37%,” Ebrard said.
“That’s the size of the economy of many countries. … It’s a history of phenomenal success,” he said.
Ebrard, foreign affairs minister during most of the six-year term of former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador, recalled that the expectation when negotiations for a new North America trade agreement began during the first presidency of Donald Trump was that a “disaster” was awaiting Mexico, that the new pact would lead to the “destruction” of the Mexican economy.
Marcelo Ebrard, who at the time was Mexico’s foreign minister, was at former President López Obrador’s side during at the negotiation of the USMCA trade deal. (Presidencia)
He stressed that the anticipated disaster didn’t occur.
“We’re part of a history of phenomenal success that is in no one’s interest to jeopardize,” Ebrard said.
“We have an agreement for some time yet,” said the economy minister, who acknowledged that there will be points of difference between Mexico, the United States and Canada when the pact is reviewed but stressed that the USMCA is of vital importance to a huge number of companies that operate in North America.
Ebrard: Mexico is an ally of North America, not China
Ebrard dismissed claims that Mexico is cozying up to China and that its trade and investment relationship with the East Asian country will cause problems with the United States and Canada when the USMCA is reviewed.
“We don’t have any auto plant of a Chinese brand in Mexico,” he said before highlighting that BYD — the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer that has announced plans to open a factory in Mexico — has a plant (where electric buses are made) in California.
“We’re allied with, we’re part of the North American region,” said Ebrard, who also highlighted — not for the first time — that most Chinese investment in the region is in the United States.
Ebrard highlighted the strength and economic unity of the North American alliance in his Wednesday remarks. (Shutterstock)
He described claims that “Mexico is allied with China” as “half schizophrenic” and asserted that he doesn’t see any “strategic” economic “difference” between the three North American trade partners.
‘We have to maximize Mexico’s comparative advantages’
In later remarks, Ebrard said that the world is amid “a new paradigm that has two characteristics.”
The first, he said, is greater trade protectionism “by region” — even though Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on Mexican and Canadian exports — while the second is “increasing competition” between the United States and China, the world’s top two economies.
“We’re in the North American region and therefore what we have do is maximize the comparative advantages Mexico has” due to its location,” Ebrard said.
Amid increasing trade competition between the U.S. and China, Mexico must take maximize the advantages of its location in North America, Ebrard said. (ANAM)
“I think we have a geo-strategic advantage in this new era and we’re going to work with the new [U.S. ] government so that is a reality,” Ebrard said.
5 key quotes from Economy Minister Ebrard
In his conversation with Rubin, and in subsequent remarks to the press, Ebrard spoke about a range of other issues, including Plan México, an ambitious federal government economic plan that seeks to seize the nearshoring opportunity while delivering prosperity and well-being for Mexicans across the country.
Here is a selection of remarks the economy minister made on Wednesday.
On Plan México:
“It’s the first time that we have a plan with a lot of verifiable objectives. … It tells you what we’re going to do in each sector [of the economy] and each region. … What is the central issue? Among other [goals], increase national content [in the products] we make and reduce our dependence on Asian countries in general.”
On economic development in the south of Mexico:
“In Mexico now there are around 100 industrial parks [under construction]. … The vast majority are in the north of the country, in second place in central Mexico and there are very few in the south. What we have to do is take gas, energy, power plants [to the south] — we’re already doing it — so that the south integrates [more in the national economy]. It can’t grow if it doesn’t have energy, right? That was the limiting factor.”
On Mexico’s approach to dealing with the new US government:
“President Sheinbaum said it. We’re going to act with cold blood, calmness, cold blood, temperance. We’re going to seek points of agreement, we’re going to establish dialogue. There will be cooperation because there are no substantial differences between Mexico and the United States.”
“Yesterday the CEO of Nestlé told me that Mexico produces all the Nescafé that is distributed in 70 countries around the world. … In other words, in Australia, now, someone is drinking a coffee that was made in Mexico. … Starting this year, Mexico will be the largest producer of coffee for the company Nestlé. … There are thousands of families that produce coffee, in Oaxaca, in Veracruz and in Chiapas.”
On foreign companies in Mexico:
“No one is going to leave Mexico because they have their most productive plants here. [Relocating] would be very expensive.”
February arrives in San Miguel de Allende with a vibrant mix of cultural, artistic and musical events, which means it’s time to ask what’s on in the coming weeks. From celebrating long-standing traditions like the Feria de la Candelaria and its workshops to live performances that span opera and mesmerizing dance shows, this month offers something for everyone.
Highlights include the 20th anniversary of the San Miguel Writers’ Conference, the soulful melodies of the Gil Gutiérrez Trio and the exciting debut of Soul Fusion’s Black History Month festival. Whether you’re exploring local traditions, connecting with the finest in literature or dancing to the beats of electronic music, February in San Miguel is packed with events to inspire and entertain.
Feria de la Candelaria
(San Miguel de Allende/Facebook)
February brings the 49th edition of the beloved Feria de la Candelaria, now set in the scenic Parque Zeferino Gutiérrez. This cherished event features over 100 exhibitors offering an incredible variety of plants, pots and gardening supplies. Traditionally held at Parque Benito Juárez, the fair has moved due to logistical changes stemming from the construction of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Cardo. The new location provides spacious grounds to explore and purchase an incredible array of beautiful plants.
Over two weeks, the Feria de la Candelaria offers a variety of engaging events. Participate in workshops on rural medicine or learn about the endemic animals and plants of San Miguel de Allende. Tap into your creativity with a fun floral mixology class or immerse yourself in the soulful experience of a cacao ceremony. Music lovers will especially enjoy the heartfelt musical tribute to Juan Gabriel. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!
This special recital features two celebrated artists: pianist and composer Marta García Renart, known for her distinguished career that includes performances at Carnegie Hall and impactful work as a music educator, and soprano Luz Escalera, a talented performer with a solid international career. The concert offers a captivating mix of classical and Mexican music, including works by Mozart, Hugo Wolf, George Crumb and Fauré, alongside pieces by Marta García Renart and Blas Galindo. This unique program promises to celebrate European classical traditions and Mexico’s musical roots.
Date: Feb. 1, 3:45 pm Location: Univerciudad Casa El Nigromante, Umarán 38, Centro Cost: Tickets start at 280 pesos
Midwinter ceremony with an Amazonian spiritual elder
(Event Brite)
This spiritually rich gathering honors the midpoint between winter and spring, a time of renewal and connection. The highlight of the evening is a cacao ceremony led by Manari Ushigua, a revered elder and healer of the Sápara nation in the Ecuadorian Amazon, who will share the rainforest’s vibrant energy. The event also includes a sacred fire at sunset and a light tamale dinner, creating a powerful and reflective experience. All profits benefit Manari’s mission to support his Amazonian community.
Date: Feb. 7, 4 to 9 p.m. Location: Montolea 11, Valle de los Senderos Cost: 500 pesos
Born in 2018 as a beachfront block party in Nayarit, this roaming party has since held more than 50 events throughout Mexico and the United States. This electrifying event blends deep-tech vibes inspired by nightlife capitals like London and Berlin with the minimal melodies of Tulum. Founders Santa María Rivera, Bgeezy and Fouad Masoud will deliver back-to-back sets, joined by talented DJs from Morelia and Querétaro. With mesmerizing music, vibrant lights and an inclusive atmosphere, it promises to be an unforgettable night of house music and dancing.
Date: Feb. 7, 7:00 pm to 2:00 am Location: Sai-Kó Nigiri Lounge, Calle Hernandez Macias, Centro Cost: 150 pesos.
The Marriage of Figaro
(Ópera de San Miguel)
Experience the magic of Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro,” widely regarded as one of the greatest operas ever composed. This sequel to Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville” follows the comedic escapades of Figaro as he thwarts Count Almaviva’s attempt to exercise feudal rights over Susanna, Figaro’s bride-to-be. The opera features a captivating mix of mistaken identities, hilarious subterfuge and breathtaking arias.
The stellar cast includes Alberto Albarrán as Figaro, Enrique Angeles as the Count, Anabel de la Mora as Susanna and Jacinta Barbachano as the Countess, accompanied by Pro Musica’s outstanding orchestra. From its lively overture to its moving duets and ensembles, this performance will have you laughing and marveling at the genius beauty of Mozart’s music. Don’t miss this exquisite blend of humor, drama and timeless musical artistry.
Date: Feb. 7, 5 p.m. Location: Teatro Angela Peralta, Centro Cost: Starting at 300 pesos
Gil Gutiérrez Trio with Dave Rodriguez and Robert Stern
Gil Gutiérrez Trio - Live at Caffe Lena
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an evening of enchanting string music at Teatro Santa Ana. Renowned guitarist Gil Gutiérrez will be joined by two extraordinary musicians from New York, Dave Rodriguez on double bass and Robert Stern on violin, for a captivating trio performance. This intimate concert promises a stirring musical experience. Whether you’re a fan of classical strings or simply looking for a unique way to spend the evening, secure your spot for this special night!
Date: Feb. 14, 6 p.m. Location: Teatro Santa Ana, Relox 50A Cost: 550 pesos, tickets available at the theater’s box office
Darbukanos Dance
(Discover SMA)
Celebrate the ninth anniversary of dance ensemble Darbukanos with a dazzling performance that transports audiences through the rich cultural tapestry of Turkish, Arab, Macedonian, Sephardic and Balkan music and dance. Founded by renowned dancer and choreographer Fridha Chacón, this talented ensemble of Mexican performers delivers a breathtaking display of hypnotic belly dances and music. Their artistry is complemented by vibrant costumes adorned with shimmering fabrics and intricate designs, which enhance the visual spectacle and deeply connect the audience to the cultural roots of this exciting show.
Date: Feb. 15, 6 p.m. Location: Teatro Angela Peralta, Centro Tickets: 400 pesos, available at the theater’s box office
San Miguel Writers’ Conference & Literary Festival
(Alistair Palmer)
Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the San Miguel Writers’ Conference with a dazzling lineup of literary greats! The keynote lineup includes literary luminaries like John Irving, Percival Everett, Kaveh Akbar, John Vaillant, Jorge F. Hernández, Ruth Reichl and Jennifer Clement.
The festival offers a variety of engaging activities, including agent pitch sessions, individual consultations, post-conference workshops, open mic nights, a poetry fire circle, the Big Read event and exciting excursions. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or an avid reader, immerse yourself in this vibrant literary celebration. For the first time, the festival is honoring its home country by offering all Spanish-speaking programs at no cost to Mexican nationals. Simultaneous interpretation for presentations in English and Spanish.
Date: Feb. 12 to 16 Location: Hotel Real de Minas, Colonia San Antonio Cost: Packages available online
Black History Month Music, Art & Food Festival
(Event Brite)
Celebrate Black American heritage and culture at Soul Fusion’s inaugural festival in San Miguel de Allende! This gathering in honor of Black History Month in the U.S. will be hosted at Geek & Coffee, a charming restaurant with a beautiful garden next to the duck pond within the fabulous Fabrica La Aurora. The celebration features live music performances by StephyLoren, Dr. Jackie “Bouvier” Copeland, Danielle Simmons and Carlos Pirex. Enjoy the offerings of incredible artisans and food vendors, plus a health and wellness area and kids’ corner for family-friendly fun. Soul Fusion is a global music movement dedicated to preserving and advancing Black music heritage through education, performances and public awareness. Everyone is welcome to join in this celebration!
Date: Feb. 22, 1 to 6 p.m. Location: Geek & Coffee at Fabrica La Aurora Cost: 300 pesos, kids enter for free
Hands-on jewelry design workshop with Matthew Gross
(Teatro Santa Ana)
Unleash your creativity at this immersive jewelry design workshop led by the talented Matthew Gross. This hands-on experience invites participants of all ages to dive into the fascinating world of jewelry making. In this workshop, you’ll not only expand your jewelry-making skills but also draw inspiration from the beauty around you to create truly unique designs. Learn how to develop simple shapes into intricate pieces, understand the evolution of design forms over time and discover innovative problem-solving approaches that apply to other areas of design.
Date: Feb. 26, 2:45 p.m. Location: Sala Quetzal at the Biblioteca Pública Cost: Voluntary Donation in benefit of La Biblioteca
Sandra Gancz Kahan is a Mexican writer and translator based in San Miguel de Allende who specializes in mental health and humanitarian aid. She believes in the power of language to foster compassion and understanding across cultures. She can be reached at [email protected].
February is a beautiful time to visit Oaxaca. Warm in the day but cool at night. Perfect for exploring the city before getting cozy in a bar in the evening. If you decide to come for Valentine’s day the city definitely leans into decorating for the romantic holiday, with flowers and hearts everywhere. A chocolate tasting or workshop is a fun way to enjoy this day with your favorite person.
Mole fair in Mitla
(Oaxaca Travel)
One of the top things people visit Oaxaca for is the mole. February starts with a fair of seven moles in the beautiful town of San Pablo Villa de Mitla, about an hour drive from Oaxaca city. You can take a bus or shared tax from next to the baseball stadium, or one of the many tour companies can arrange a visit. This event will celebrate the gastronomic and cultural wealth of the region to enjoy the colors, aroma and flavors of the mole. You will be able to find chocolate, chocoatole and the seven different types of mole. This will be part of a broader fair in Mitla that will include music dancing.
Dates: Feb. 1 and 2, 9 to 6 p.m. Location: San Pablo Villa de Mitla Tickets: Free entry
Human Toys at Justa Rufina
(Human Toys/Facebook)
Back in the city center, start the month with a night out and see Human Toys play in Oaxaca. They offer a sexy, subversive punk rock experience. Justa Rufina Fonda Bar, playing host, is a great place to get your dance on! They also have great food and cocktails.
Date: Feb. 1 at 9 p.m. Location: Justa Rufina Fonda Bar, Ignacio Allende, Centro Tickets: Available at Songkick
Lucha libre at the Auditorio Guelaguetza
(Super boletos)
This month sees a major face-off for Oaxacan Lucha Libre, with Alberto El Patron and L.A Park taking on Psycho Clown and Pagano. Lucha Libre translates as “free fight,” and is a Mexican style of professional wrestling characterized by high-flying maneuvers. Fighters often wear masks to hide their identity in and out of the ring. In Oaxaca, the regular events are usually in a small arena on the outskirts of the city. However, on Feb. 2, this bout will take place in the Guelaguetza stadium.
A unique opportunity to hear organ music and to experience Oaxaca off the tourist track with eight concerts on eight Oaxaca historic organs. Concerts will be delivered by by renowned organists Luca Scandali (Italy), James O’Donnell (UK) and José Suárez with Horacio Franco (Mexico City) on the recorder, as well as Cicely Winter, with Valentín Hernández (Oaxaca) on percussion.
Watch the Super Bowl with a mezcal. This venue is usually one recommended to visit to sip Oaxaca’s most famous spirit, in an environment where they can talk you through the process. On Feb. 9 it will also be the spot to catch up with football fans and catch the sports most anticipated event. Who will take the win: Eagles or Chiefs?
Date: Feb. 9 at 5:30 p.m. Location: Bar El Gallo, inside the Centro Cultural del Mezcal, Calle Hidalgo 912 Tickets: Reservations can be made over the phone at 951 579 1726
“Romeo and Juliet” at La Mancha
(Centro Cultural La Mancha/Facebook)
Staying with a romantic theme, you can go and see a rendition of Romeo and Juliet. Based in Oaxaca 1828, the fight between the Liberals and Conservatives stains the streets of the city. Two young lovers refuse to accept that their love is prevented by belonging to opposing sides, but will they manage to stay together this time?
Dates: Feb. 15 and 22 at 4 p.m. Location: Centro Cultural La Mancha, Murguia 507, Centro Tickets: 200 pesos, available calling 971 137 5354 and 951 123 0069.
Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival
(Oaxaca Food and Wine Festival)
After 15 years of producing an award-winning Key West Food & Wine Festival in Key West the team are bringing the event to Oaxaca. “Known as the gastronomic center of Mexico, Oaxaca is simply the perfect place for food lovers to gather.”
Dates: Feb. 20 to 23 Location: Various locations in Oaxaca City Tickets: On sale through Feb. 10 at oaxacafoodandwinefestival.com
Unconventional Pet Fair
(Feria de mascotas no convencionales/Facebook)
Visit the 3rd Annual Unconventional Pet Fair at the University of Oaxaca. As well as the iconic Ambystoma mexicanum — better known as the axolotl — there will also be an exhibition of reptiles and small mammals such as pygmy hedgehogs.
Date: Feb. 28, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Location: Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia UABJO, Avenida Universidad S/N, Ex Hacienda Cinco Señores Tickets: Free entry
Zipolite Nudist Festival
(Turismo Oaxaca)
February is a great time to get down to the coast of Oaxaca. To get fully immersed, join Zipolite’s 10th annual nudist festival. The celebrations will start with a calenda, and tour the main street of Zipolite. During the festival you can go see whales, get body painted and take part in a volleyball competition.
Date: Jan. 31 through Feb. 2 Location: Various Venues: Hotel Nude Beach, Shambala Beach, Hotel el Paraiso Beach, Cobblestone, Hotel Posada México Beach, Hotel Alquimista Beach Tickets: Most activities are free. Contact workshop leaders for paid activities.
Pauli Pocket on Mazunte beach
(Soundcloud)
After spending a few days celebrating nudism, head for a dance as German DJ Pauli Pocket plays house and techno on the Oaxaca coast’s Mazunte beach. Mazunte is a firm favorite of hippies and travelling partygoers. It’s a chiller vibe than Puerto Escondido, but people get into the swing of things from the early afternoon.
Anna Bruce is an award-winning British photojournalist based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Just some of the media outlets she has worked with include Vice, The Financial Times, Time Out, Huffington Post, The Times of London, the BBC and Sony TV. Find out more about her work at her website or visit her on social media on Instagram or on Facebook.
Mexico City's wide variety of food offerings, from steaming street tacos to high restaurants has won the city yet another culinary recognition. (Shutterstock)
Once again, Mexico City has won international recognition after National Geographic Traveller included the capital city among its top food destinations for 2025.
“Mexico has long been a destination for foodies,” Nat Geo said in its list of the eight best food travel destinations for this year. It also noted that the Michelin Guide 2024 is yet another reason to travel there this year.
Nat Geo highlighted El Califa de León, Mexico’s only taquería to have been awarded a Michelin star. This tiny and unpretentious taquería in the San Rafael neighborhood of Mexico City, has been around since 1968. According to the Michelin Guide, the signature beef-filet taco is “exceptional.”
The magazine gave a special mention to restaurants featured in the 50 World’s Best Restaurant list, including Pujol, Quintonil and Rosetta; “all of which are commended for their modern and inventive takes on Mexican cuisine,” Nat Geo said.
It’s not the first time Nat Geo has celebrated Mexico City’s variety of foods and dishes, the availability of which shifts constantly throughout the day. Tacos de guisado (with stew) are typically seen at breakfast and lunchtime as is barbacoa (slow-roasted meat). Carnitas (slow-cooked pork), or mixiote (pit-barbecued meat) are generally enjoyed at midday, while street-style tacos are mainly served at night.
And let’s not forget the ubiquitous tortillas, which can be enjoyed at every meal.
Mexico City is known for delicious and varied tacos de guisado, which feature a range of stewed fillings. (T. Tseng CC BY 2.0)
Nat Geo also praised the cheap prices and fast service of food stalls at markets and cocinas económicas (low-cost diners), which offer everything from freshly made tortillas to juices or fresh brews, seafood, desserts and garnachas, which are fried tortillas with refried beans and a variety of garnishes.
Finally, it featured Mexico City’s cantinas, which are the equivalent of a pub in the U.K. There will often be karaoke, live music and even mariachi bands. While cantinas mostly serve drinks, some surprise their guests with free appetizers. Other cantinas have a proper menu with traditional dishes like pancita (tripe soup), birria (meat stew), caldo de camarón (shrimp soup) and more.
“You can spend the day eating, drinking and singing,” Nat Geo said.
In addition to Mexico City, Nat Geo featured Sicily, Italy; Cumbria, U.K; Alabama, U.S; Cape Town, South Africa; Busan, South Korea; Croatia; and Catalonia, Spain.
Fans of soccer team Club Ámerica have been asked to stop dressing statues of the baby Jesus with club colors. (Metropolitano Aguascalientes/Facebook)
Can you picture the Baby Jesus dressed in your favorite club’s jersey? Well, one Mexico City market has made this a reality.
According to merchants at the Historic Center’s Corredor del Niño Dios — known for it’s range of costumes for statues of Jesus — the most requested piece of clothing to dress up the Baby Jesus on Candlemas Day (Feb. 2) is Mexico City’s Club América “Tricampeón” football kit.
Mexico City’s Club Ámerica have recently sealed their third consecutive national title. (Mireya Novo/Cuartoscuro)
The capital’s Club América, also dubbed “Las Águilas,” is the club with the largest fan base in Mexico. The team recently won their third consecutive national championship title in the Liga Mx.
“We’re going to dress [the Baby Jesus] with the uniform of the three-time champion America. That’s what people are asking for, América,” the owner of Creaciones Guadalupe told newspaper Excelsior.
But the Archbishop of Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Oscar Roberto Dominguez Couttolenc, called on parishioners to be respectful of the image of the Baby Jesus and not to dress him as a soccer fan or a superhero.
“If you support America or Cruz Azul, that’s one thing,” the Archbishop said. “Don’t dress them as Batman or other superheroes. Let’s be respectful… Just dress [the figure] as Baby Jesus.”
Sorry DC fans, Batman is also a no-go. (Pinterest)
Prices for Baby Jesus’ costumes vary, ranging from 80 pesos (US $4) to more artisanal pieces that cost around 2,000 pesos (US $100).
Vendors at the Historic Center told the newspaper Excelsior that dressing up the Baby Jesus on Candlemas Day is a Catholic tradition as old as Mexico’s love for football. The tradition of dressing up the Baby Jesus dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries when nuns often dressed many religious figures in garments they had woven themselves. Over time, this practice was passed on to parishioners, who continue the tradition by dressing the figurines today.
Candlemas is a holiday that celebrates the purification of the Virgin Mary after giving birth — following Jewish traditions of the time — and the presentation of Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem. This celebration is still alive in much of Latin America and Spain.
In Mexico, observants dress up a Baby Jesus figure to take it to the temple in remembrance of the presentation day. There are no references in the Bible as to whether the Baby Jesus was a fan of Club Ámerica, however.
