Cathedral Light Show
The Cathedral Light Show in Morelia is one of the most anticipated nighttime events for both locals and visitors. Every Saturday night, the city’s iconic cathedral —with its imposing pink quarry stone façade and baroque architecture— becomes the stage for a dazzling display in the heart of the Historic Center.
This free light, sound, and fireworks show begins at 9:00 p.m. and has drawn crowds of up to 6,500 people on special nights. It has become a must-see experience and a popular gathering spot for those exploring the city.
In addition to this attraction, the Cathedral hosts major cultural events such as the Morelia International Organ Festival “Alfonso Vega Núñez,” held every December. It brings together thousands of attendees and internationally renowned musicians around its majestic organ with more than 4,600 pipes, one of the largest in Latin America.
Events like this make Morelia one of Mexico’s top cultural tourism destinations, with over 6.5 million visitors in 2024.
During the light show, Avenida Madero is closed to traffic, allowing thousands of people to gather in front of the cathedral. The experience combines lights, synchronized music, and fireworks that illuminate the façade, creating an unforgettable visual and auditory spectacle.
After the show, you can continue your visit with one of Morelia’s mystery and legends tours, available on foot or by trolley.
Historical Highlights
Outside, the cathedral features two stunning baroque twin towers, each 61 meters tall. It has two domes, with the larger one rising over the crossing on an octagonal drum, covered in glazed ceramic tiles in blue and white patterns.
Inside, you’ll find the altarpiece of the Lord of the Sacristy, a revered figure crafted from corn cane paste. The cathedral also houses a magnificent German-made pipe organ, known as San Gregorio Magno, with 4,600 voices, which replaced the original 18th-century Spanish organ.
This beautiful architectural masterpiece by Vicente Barroso de la Escayola was completed in 1744, after 84 years of construction. On May 10, 1705, the cathedral chapter held the first dedication ceremony, even though the towers had yet to be built. On that day, the Salvador bell, weighing 13,600 pounds (6,260 kg), was installed.
📌 Good to Know
The light show goes on even during light rain or drizzle.
However, it may be canceled during severe weather, such as thunderstorms or heavy rain.
📍 Location
Morelia Cathedral – Light Show
🕘 Time: 9:00 p.m. (Saturdays)
📌 Address: Av. Francisco I. Madero, in front of the Cathedral — next to Plaza de Armas, Historic Center, Morelia
