10 Magical Year-Round Experiences and Things to Do in Xico Mexico

Key Takeaways:

• Xico is a charming mountain town known for its waterfalls, festivals, and pre-Hispanic traditions that come alive year-round.

• Nature lovers, foodies, and culture seekers alike will find something unforgettable in this hidden gem of Veracruz.

• From coffee plantations to folkloric parades, Xico offers a slower, soulful travel experience filled with authenticity and beauty.

Tucked into the lush highlands of Veracruz, Xico is a small Mexican town that packs a powerful cultural punch. Recognized as a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town), Xico is steeped in colonial architecture, indigenous traditions, and natural wonders like waterfalls and cloud forests. Its cobblestone streets lead to family-owned restaurants, historic churches, and stunning viewpoints that overlook misty green valleys. With a strong identity rooted in Nahuatl heritage, Catholic faith, and agricultural bounty—especially coffee and mole—Xico draws visitors who want to connect with authentic Mexico. Whether you come during its famous summer festivals or for a quiet mountain escape, Xico never fails to enchant.

Table of Contents

1. Hike to the Cascada de Texolo

2. Taste Traditional Mole at a Family-Run Restaurant

3. Explore the Historic Church of Santa María Magdalena

4. Experience the Fiesta de Santa María Magdalena (July)

5. Visit a Coffee Plantation and Sample Local Brews

6. Walk the Cloud Forest Trails in Cofre de Perote National Park

7. Take a Cooking Class Featuring Veracruz Flavors

8. Browse Handicrafts at the Local Artisan Market

9. Ride Horseback Through the Surrounding Valleys

10. Enjoy Traditional Dances at the Plaza Principal

1. Hike to the Cascada de Texolo

One of Xico’s most breathtaking natural attractions is the Cascada de Texolo, a towering waterfall surrounded by dense vegetation and scenic viewpoints. A short drive or moderate hike from the town center, the trail to the falls takes you through pine forests and over wooden bridges before revealing the dramatic drop of Texolo. The falls thunder into a deep gorge, where mist rises and birds soar through the valley below. Several lookout points and trails around the area make it ideal for both casual visitors and avid hikers.

Along the way, you’ll encounter smaller cascades, picnic spots, and sometimes even local vendors selling snacks and crafts. Adventurous travelers can follow side trails that lead to hidden pools and quieter forest paths. The sound of the rushing water combined with the cool mountain air creates an invigorating and peaceful experience. Visiting Texolo is a must for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture Xico’s raw beauty.

2. Taste Traditional Mole at a Family-Run Restaurant

Xico is legendary for its mole—a rich, complex sauce made with over 30 ingredients including local chiles, nuts, chocolate, and spices. Unlike commercial versions, the mole here is handcrafted by families who’ve passed down their recipes for generations. Many local restaurants, some set in colonial-era homes, serve mole with chicken, pork, or tamales, and offer explanations of how it’s made. It’s more than a meal—it’s a deep culinary tradition rooted in the region’s mestizo identity.

Dining in Xico is an intimate experience, often involving stories, heritage, and hospitality alongside the food. Visitors can enjoy house-made tortillas, fresh salsas, and other Veracruz delicacies while sipping on café de olla or seasonal fruit drinks. Mole tastings are sometimes paired with cooking demos or cultural events, especially around festival season. If you’re a foodie or a fan of slow travel, this is one of the most flavorful and memorable experiences in town.

3. Explore the Historic Church of Santa María Magdalena

At the heart of Xico stands the Church of Santa María Magdalena, a 16th-century structure known for its striking pink façade and rich spiritual history. This church isn’t just an architectural landmark—it’s also the focal point of the town’s religious festivals and daily community life. Inside, visitors will find ornate altars, sacred relics, and vibrant artwork reflecting Catholic and indigenous influences. The church’s central plaza is a gathering place for locals and hosts open-air events year-round.

Beyond its religious significance, the church represents centuries of faith and cultural blending. Attending mass here or simply exploring the grounds connects you to Xico’s deep-rooted traditions. On feast days, the church is adorned with marigolds, candles, and paper decorations, transforming it into a kaleidoscope of color and devotion. Whether you’re spiritual or just culturally curious, a visit here offers a meaningful glimpse into the soul of the town.

4. Experience the Fiesta de Santa María Magdalena (July)

Each July, Xico bursts into celebration with the Fiesta de Santa María Magdalena—one of the most colorful and energetic festivals in all of Mexico. Over the course of a week, the streets fill with parades, fireworks, traditional dancers, and massive sawdust carpets made by hand. The town’s patron saint is honored with a vibrant mix of Catholic ceremony and indigenous ritual, creating a spiritual and visual spectacle. Bulls run through the cobbled streets in a nod to local ranching culture, while musicians and dancers entertain crowds late into the night.

It’s an unforgettable time to visit Xico, as every plaza, street, and home becomes part of the celebration. Visitors are welcomed warmly and encouraged to join in processions, enjoy regional dishes, and watch artisans at work. From giant paper-mâché puppets to sky-high fireworks, every detail is rooted in tradition and shared pride. If you want to see Xico at its most alive, this is the time to come.

5. Visit a Coffee Plantation and Sample Local Brews

Coffee production is a way of life in Xico, and visiting a nearby plantation offers a deep look into this essential part of the region’s economy and culture. Tours typically include walks through lush coffee groves, an explanation of the growing and roasting process, and tastings of freshly brewed local blends. Many plantations are family-owned and set on scenic mountain slopes with panoramic views of the valleys below. You’ll often be greeted with homemade pastries and warm hospitality.

Beyond the drink itself, coffee culture in Xico is tied to community, environment, and sustainability. Some plantations also cultivate cacao, vanilla, or herbs, offering a broader look at traditional agriculture. Picking beans, grinding them by hand, and enjoying a cup on-site connects you to the land in a very personal way. It’s an immersive experience that leaves you with more than just caffeine—you’ll take home a story in every sip.

6. Walk the Cloud Forest Trails in Cofre de Perote National Park

Just outside Xico lies Cofre de Perote National Park, a pristine natural area that offers misty trails through cloud forests and alpine terrain. These lush, high-altitude woodlands are home to towering firs, rare orchids, and endemic bird species. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging ascents, many of which offer panoramic views over valleys and volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re a casual nature lover or a serious trekker, the park delivers awe-inspiring moments of peace and connection with nature.

Local guides are available for those who want deeper insight into the park’s flora, fauna, and cultural significance. During the rainy season, fog rolls through the forest creating an almost mystical atmosphere—perfect for photography or meditation. Pack a jacket and sturdy shoes, as the temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations. A few hours in this forest will leave you refreshed, grounded, and grateful for Xico’s proximity to untouched wilderness.

7. Take a Cooking Class Featuring Veracruz Flavors

Xico’s rich culinary traditions extend well beyond mole, and taking a local cooking class is a delicious way to dive deeper. Many small businesses and local chefs offer half-day or full-day workshops that walk you through the preparation of tamales, salsas, atoles, and even desserts like pan de elote. You’ll shop for ingredients at a local market before heading to a traditional kitchen, often in someone’s home or countryside hacienda. The experience is hands-on, joyful, and filled with aromatic spices and family stories.

Cooking classes are often taught by women who’ve been preserving these techniques for generations. You’ll learn the history behind each dish, how it relates to local agriculture, and how to prepare it with love and patience. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s an education in culture and identity. At the end, you’ll feast on your creations and leave with skills to impress anyone back home.

8. Browse Handicrafts at the Local Artisan Market

The artisan scene in Xico is small but full of heart, offering handmade goods that reflect regional identity and craftsmanship. In the main plaza and surrounding streets, you’ll find colorful stalls selling embroidered clothing, leather sandals, handwoven bags, and ceramic cookware. Local artisans often use natural dyes, recycled materials, and techniques passed down through families. It’s a great place to find meaningful souvenirs and gifts that support the local economy.

The market is especially lively on weekends or during festival periods, when more vendors come to town and musicians perform nearby. Prices are reasonable, and haggling is done with good humor. Some vendors may even give you a quick demo or explain the story behind a piece. Shopping here feels less like a transaction and more like a cultural exchange, offering a genuine connection to Xico’s artistic soul.

9. Ride Horseback Through the Surrounding Valleys

For a unique way to explore the verdant landscapes around Xico, consider a guided horseback ride through its rolling hills and riverside trails. Local ranches and tour operators offer rides suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The pace is relaxed, giving you time to soak in the scenery—misty fields, coffee farms, and distant volcanoes—all while following routes used by locals for generations. It’s a peaceful and immersive way to see parts of the region that are inaccessible by car.

Along the way, your guide may share stories about the area’s rural traditions, wildlife, or plant uses in indigenous medicine. Breaks are often taken near scenic overlooks or rivers where you can rest and take photos. Horseback riding is especially popular during the dry season when the trails are easiest to navigate. Whether you go solo or with friends, it’s a memorable experience that brings you closer to the land and its rhythms.

10. Enjoy Traditional Dances at the Plaza Principal

In the heart of Xico’s town center is the Plaza Principal, a community gathering space that comes alive with music, dance, and public life throughout the year. On many weekends and during special festivals, the plaza hosts performances of danzón, jarabe, and other traditional dances passed down through generations. Locals in embroidered costumes swirl to live music played by brass bands or marimba groups. The performances are free and open to all—just grab a bench or stand with the crowd and enjoy.

These dances are more than entertainment—they’re a celebration of identity, history, and communal joy. Often performed during religious celebrations or cultural anniversaries, they keep the spirit of Veracruz and indigenous influences alive. Visitors are welcomed with warm smiles, and it’s not uncommon to be invited to dance or share a bite from nearby food stalls. It’s a beautiful reminder that in Xico, tradition is not just preserved—it’s joyfully lived.

What to do if you have kids?

Xico is a fantastic destination for families with children, thanks to its nature-filled surroundings and warm community vibe. Kids will love exploring waterfalls like Cascada de Texolo, feeding ducks in the main plaza, or enjoying horseback rides through the hills. Many restaurants and cafés are kid-friendly, offering traditional snacks and casual seating. During festivals, parades and fireworks captivate younger visitors, and local artisans often run simple craft workshops. Just bring good walking shoes and a sense of adventure—the whole family will feel at home.

Where can I find free events in Xico Mexico taking place this weekend?

To find the best free events happening this weekend in Xico—like folk dance shows, artisan pop-ups, cultural parades, or open-air concerts—visit https://planmyweekend.ai. Our tool pulls real-time event listings based on your location and interests, helping you discover local magic without the hassle of searching. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous Saturday or a full weekend itinerary, it’s the fastest way to connect with the heart of Xico for free. Get inspired, join the fun, and never miss a hidden gem again.

Final thoughts on planning a trip here

Xico is the kind of place that invites you to slow down and fully immerse yourself in its layered culture, misty landscapes, and heartfelt traditions. Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall, dancing in the town square, or sipping locally grown coffee, every moment here feels intentional and unforgettable. It’s ideal for travelers who crave authenticity, beauty, and community connection in one destination. Plan your visit around a festival, or come during the quiet months—either way, you’ll find something to love. In Xico, every path leads to magic.