If you’re looking for a cultural (and free) outing in the city, this is definitely for you. The CÁCARO Festival: The Mexican cinema extravaganza returns for its second edition and promises to fill Mexico City with screenings, emerging talent, and gems of Mexican cinema.
One of the highlights already making waves is the screening of Pan’s Labyrinth, which will celebrate its anniversary with a special showing at Casa del Lago. Yes, completely free.
But that’s just part of what this festival has to offer, as it seeks to bring Mexican cinema to new audiences and spark conversation about the stories being told in the country.
Screenings, venues, and everything you’ll be able to see
The festival will take place at 16 venues throughout Mexico City, including cultural spaces, parks, and outdoor venues.
In addition to special screenings, there will be several sections worth keeping an eye on:
- “Young Images” Selection: Short Films by New Generations
- Film School Gathering: workshops, mentorship, and collaborative projects
- Luneta: Contemporary Mexican Film Showcase
- Palco: Our Perspective: Essential Classics of Mexican Cinema
- Special screenings featuring films that explore new narratives
Among the most notable screenings are titles such as The Devil Smokes, Angels, Kilometer 31, and I Am Frankelda, in addition to the highly anticipated closing screening of Vanilla.
And yes, many of these screenings will be completely free, making it one of the must-see events of the month.
📅 April 18–26, 2026 (Screening of Pan’s Labyrinth: Wednesday, April 22, 7:00 PM, Casa del Lago)
📍 16 venues in Mexico City (including Casa del Lago, Cineteca Nacional, FAROS, and public spaces)
⏰Different showtimes depending on the screening (e.g., 7:00 PM for main screenings)
🎟️Free admission
If you love cinema or simply want a different kind of outing without breaking the bank, this festival is the perfect excuse to dive into discovering new stories (and revisiting classics) in different corners of the city.
