October Festivals in Guadalajara: What to Do?

Foto: Shutterstock

The October Festival is one of the largest and most anticipated events in all of Jalisco, annually drawing thousands of locals and tourists from across Mexico and the world with its music, culture, entertainment, and tradition. We will tell you everything it offers and why you should not miss the opportunity to be part of this grand festivity.

The festival began in 1965 at Agua Azul Park, as an initiative to promote culture and tourism in the city, but over time it has become an iconic celebration of the city, which has also transformed the variety of activities and spectacles to satisfy audiences of all ages.

Due to its growth, since 1984 the October Festival has been held at the Benito Juárez Auditorium, where you can listen to live guest artists, enjoy all the regional gastronomy, and much more. Below we tell you everything that awaits you at this grand event.

What to do at the October Festival Guadalajara 2025?

The October Festival 2025 will take place from October 3 to November 4.

1. Enjoy live concerts.

One of the main attractions is the lineup of artists performing on the main stage of the Benito Juárez Auditorium, featuring various genres and renowned national and international acts; as well as at the Palenque, another stage where you can enjoy regional singers.

2025 Lineup at the Benito Auditorium:

General admission is free, by purchasing your entry ticket to the fair on the day of the concert. However, if you wish to enjoy the concert in the preferred area, tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster:

October 3 - Sebastián Yatra
October 4 - Icons of Classic Rock
October 5 - Banda el Recodo
October 6 - Zoé
October 9 - Camila
October 10 - Caifanes
October 11 - Natalia Jiménez
October 14 - Enjambre
October 15 - Los Ángeles Azules
October 16 - DLD and Kinky
October 17 - HA*ASH and Kai Lana
October 19 - Belinda
October 21 - Grupo Pesado
October 22 - Morat
October 23 - Piso 21
October 24 - Joaquín Medina, Los Esquivel, and Yng Lvcas
October 25 - Grupo Frontera
October 28 - Carlos Vives
October 31 - Intocable
November 1 - Bad Gyal
November 2 - María José
November 4 - Arrolladora Banda el Limón
2. Stroll through the fair.

The fair, with a large number of mechanical and skill games for the whole family, is the heart of the October Festival. There is always something for every taste and level of adrenaline, from the classic Ferris wheel to flying chairs.

3. Try the local gastronomy.

Guadalajara is a city famous for its delicious gastronomy, so do not miss the opportunity to try the typical dishes. The classic drowned sandwiches, birria, and even Jalisco-style pozole never fail at the food stalls. Nor can you miss Mexican street food such as tacos, elotes, and churros, among others.

4. Visit the Blue Marble.

The Blue Marble is a family-friendly space for learning and fun within the festival. Through a tour of various rooms, it seeks to introduce the whole family to a theme, which changes every year. In 2023, it was dedicated to the 200 years of Jalisco and showcased the enormous natural, artistic, and cultural wealth of the state and its contributions to the world.

5. Participate in the parades and cultural events

The October Festival is also a celebration of culture and the arts, which is why throughout the month various art, photography, and handicraft exhibitions are offered.

Parades are also part of the traditions. The allegorical floats, bands, and dancers parade through the main avenues of the city.

Foto: Shutterstock

Where to stay for the October Festival?

Choosing the right place to stay during the October Festival is crucial to fully enjoy the experience. So here are our recommendations:

Camino Real Guadalajara. It is known for its luxurious facilities and excellent location in the west, which allows you to be close to the main attractions of the city and events like the October Festival. It is approximately 30 minutes by car from the Benito Juárez Auditorium.

The hotel offers exquisite culinary options before or after going out: its restaurant "La Huerta" is open from 7:00 AM with a buffet and à la carte breakfast; while "María Bonita", its other unique concept restaurant inspired by Mexican cantinas, stands out for its excellent Mexican cuisine menu. If you are looking for a drink to relax, the "Lobby Bar" has a delicious selection to enjoy.

Quinta Real Guadalajara. This hotel is distinguished by its colonial architecture, rooms with all the comforts, and lush gardens that will make you feel like you are in an oasis in the middle of the city. It is located just 20 minutes from the city center and about 25 from the Benito Juárez Auditorium.

Enjoy other top culinary options at the Gourmet restaurant "Tierra Mía", with a Mexican cuisine concept; and a wide variety of cocktails and snacks at the Bar "Agave."

Which hotel do you want to stay at? At any of these Camino Real Hotels you are guaranteed a memorable experience.