For many in Guadalajara, Semana Santa is a time when centuries‑old religious rituals meet the irresistible urge to escape the city.
Holy Week remains a deeply observed season, but it’s also a moment for Tapatios to relax, hit the water park or Primavera Forest, and also savor one of the city’s most popular seasonal culinary traditions: the empanada.
The observances begin on Palm Sunday (March 29), when artisans gather outside the Cathedral, La Merced and other downtown churches to weave intricate crosses and figures from fresh palm fronds.
Worshipers carry them to Mass for blessing, then hang the blessed palms above their doorways — a tradition believed to offer protection until the following year.
On Maundy Thursday (April 2), thousands of Tapatíos will walk the “Visit to the Seven Churches,” a custom that commemorates Christ’s journey after the Last Supper.
The route typically winds through Guadalajara’s historic center, stopping at the Cathedral, San Agustín, Santa Teresa, La Merced, Santa María de Gracia, San Francisco and Aranzazú.
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