Aztec New Year
Country/Region:
Mexico
Traditional celebration marking the beginning of the year in the ancient Aztec calendar cycle.
Aztec New Year is observed on March 12 in alignment with the tonalpohualli and xiuhpōhualli calendar systems used by the pre-Columbian Aztec civilization.
The festival revives ancient rituals of purification, offerings, and feastings to honor deities such as Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc.
Modern ceremonies are held in places like Mexico City, where participants dress in traditional costumes and perform dance reenactments.
Altars are adorned with copal incense, flowers, and symbolic items representing the four directions and elements.
The event fosters cultural pride and educates visitors about Mexico's rich indigenous heritage.
It highlights the enduring legacy of Mesoamerican astronomy and timekeeping methods.
Aztec New Year