Mayan Pole Flyer Dancing or El Baile del Palo Volador 2024 in Guatemala

Stunning air dancers resemble circus acrobats, but in fact, this is a part of Guatemala's ancient Mayan cultural heritage

Dates: July 26 | August 15 | December 13–December 21

Thanks to the indigenous populations of Guatemala, its cultural heritage has survived for ages. Today, one may still witness traditional Mayan pole flyer dancing—known in Spanish as "El Baile del Palo Volador." The stunning and bizarre show is performed by a pair of flyers dressed in vivid traditional costumes.

Mayan Pole Flyer Dancing Tradition

The tradition begins with the selection of a tree in the forest, where dozens and sometimes hundreds of men gather. After the men choose the best tree that will serve as a pole, it is dragged into the city, consecrated, and planted in a 9-foot (3 m) deep pit in front of the church.

The dancers spin around a 98-foot (30 m) high wooden pole hanging from ropes and strike various poses mid-air as the ropes gradually lower them to the ground. This ritual dance is performed during the major religious festivals celebrating patron saints, in particular in the Quiché department.

Dates

It is observed on August 15, which is the Day of Assumption. In Chichicastenango, it takes place around the feast of Saint Tomas between December 13 and 21. Finally, you can also find it in Cubulco in Baja Verapaz during the feast of Saint Santiago on July 26.