Experience the vibrant and ancient tradition of the Giant Kite Festival in Sumpango, Guatemala, where families honor their deceased relatives and ward off evil spirits with colorful kites.
We are starting our day departing from your hotel in Guatemala City or Antigua to Sumpango, Sacatepéquez near Antigua.
Upon arrival to Sumpango, your guide will take you to the cemetery where people have cleaned, painted and decorated family graves, neighbors fondly remember the deceased, and catch up on the latest news. Every year tourists and residents gather at the foot ball field next to the cemetery, commemorating the day of the dead, being through this contest and festival highlight where the comets are raised.
Community bonds are renewed and strengthened as people work closely together, sharing paint, tools and brushes for the renovation of the graves, while the flowers of water, pray and picnic together. They spend a good time.
You will have time to admire the giant kites that people of the community make to celebrate this festival every year while your guide will tell you more about this annual tradition. Join us to enjoy a unique and colorful experience of one of the most special traditions of Guatemala.
During the tour we will have time for lunch at a local restaurant (not included).
When finished, we’ll transfer back to your hotel in Guatemala City or Antigua.
Points of Interest
- Guatemalan Adventure Day Tour
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
The Grand Kite Festival of Sumpango is held annually on November 1, in honor of the Day of the Dead or All Saints Day.
This custom of flying vibrant kites dates back to ancient times, with families honoring their departed loved ones each year. As per a widespread lore of the town, every November 1st, malicious spirits descend upon the graveyard to disrupt the peaceful slumber of the deceased. The resulting upheaval forces the souls of the dead to roam restlessly through the lanes and modest residences of Sumpango.
Historical documents suggest that as the issue continued with each passing ‘Day of the Dead’, the residents of Sumpango sought advice from their elders. The solution endorsed by the community leaders involved driving the trespassers away by creating a spectacle of paper fragments fluttering in the wind.
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
