Every December 12, millions of pilgrims arrive at the Basilica of Guadalupe, in northern Mexico City, to celebrate the Virgin of Guadalupe. It’s one of the largest religious celebrations in the world, and even if you’re not a believer it says a lot about Mexico. In 2026 the 12th falls on a Saturday. Here’s how to experience it and get around from Roma Norte, home of Hotel Emma Boutique.
What happens on those days
| When | What |
|---|---|
| From early December | Pilgrimages arrive on foot, by bike and in groups from all over the country. |
| Night of Friday, December 11 | Las Mañanitas to the Virgin, sung in the atrium at midnight. |
| Saturday, December 12 | The main day: masses all day long and the largest crowds. |
| Until mid-December | Pilgrimages keep arriving and some road closures continue. |
Schedule based on previous years. The 2026 road closures and transit hours are published by the city’s Public Safety Ministry, the Metro and Metrobús a few days before; check them before heading out.
What to see at the Basilica
- The new Basilica, a circular building that houses the original image of the Virgin; moving walkways beneath the altar let you see it up close without stopping the line.
- The Old Basilica, from the 18th century, beside the plaza.
- The Capilla del Cerrito, on top of Tepeyac hill, overlooking the complex.
- The Basilica Museum, with colonial art and votive offerings.
For a quiet visit, go any other day of the year: on weekdays and outside the first half of December it’s free of crowds.
Getting there from Roma Norte
- Metro: take Line 1 at Sevilla, 200 m from the hotel, to Balderas; change to Line 3 toward Indios Verdes to Deportivo 18 de Marzo, then walk or ride one more stop on Line 6 to La Villa-Basílica.
- Metrobús: Line 7, which runs along Paseo de la Reforma a few minutes from the hotel, also reaches the Basilica area, but it usually runs reduced hours on those days.
- Taxi or ride-hailing app: it’s about 9 km, but on the 11th and 12th streets around Calzada de Guadalupe and Calzada de los Misterios are closed, so the last stretch is on foot.
In previous years, some nearby stations closed at times depending on crowds: have a backup route.
Tips for the day
- Go early in the morning or after the 12th to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and some cash, and watch your belongings in the crowd.
- It’s a place of worship: keep quiet during mass and ask before photographing people.
- Skip the car: with the road closures on those days, the Metro is the most reliable option.
That weekend in the city
- Bruno Mars has several December dates at Estadio GNP Seguros, the last on Friday the 11th.
- Los Bukis play La Despedida on Saturday the 12th at Estadio GNP Seguros.
- Silvana Estrada sings on December 12 and 13 at Auditorio Nacional, about 2.5 km from the hotel.
Dates published by venues and ticket sellers; confirm them before buying.
Frequently asked questions
What is celebrated on December 12 in Mexico?
The feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Tradition recalls her appearance to Juan Diego on Tepeyac hill, where the Basilica stands today.
What time is Las Mañanitas to the Virgin?
It’s sung on the night of December 11, at midnight, in the Basilica’s atrium.
How do I get to the Basilica of Guadalupe by Metro?
From Roma Norte: Line 1 from Sevilla to Balderas, Line 3 to Deportivo 18 de Marzo and, if you like, Line 6 one stop to La Villa-Basílica.
Is December 12 a public holiday?
It isn’t a mandatory day off by law, although many people celebrate it. In 2026 it falls on a Saturday.
Where to stay to visit the Basilica?
In Roma Norte, Hotel Emma Boutique is 200 m from Sevilla Metro, with a connection to the Basilica, and away from the crowds so you can rest when you get back.