Mexico City is gearing up for one of its most anticipated music festivals, AXE Ceremonia, which promises to deliver an eclectic mix of performances and experiences on April 5 and 6, 2025. This year's 12th edition will take place at Parque Bicentenario, featuring a lineup that includes renowned artists such as Natanael Cano, Tyler The Creator, Massive Attack, Charli XCX, and the K-Pop group Tomorrow X Together.
Diego Jiménez, the festival's director and co-founder, describes AXE Ceremonia as a unique gathering that caters to a multigenerational audience. "We like to differentiate ourselves from other festivals by focusing on youth culture rather than just a specific genre or musical style," he told Billboard Español. The festival's diverse lineup also includes international acts like Parcels, Gesaffelstein, Nathy Peluso, The Marías, and Lil Yachty, making it one of the most innovative proposals in the spring festival season.
AXE Ceremonia has gained a reputation for its bold programming, which this year will showcase both emerging and established artists. Natanael Cano, who previously participated as an emerging artist in 2022, returns as a headliner after a sold-out concert at Estadio GNP Seguros in August 2024. Jiménez expressed excitement about Cano's growth, saying, "Seeing an artist grow in that way is very exciting and speaks to the dialogue that exists in this city with the rest of the world, turning it into a cultural capital with a significant international impact."
For the first time, the festival will also include K-Pop, inviting Tomorrow X Together to appeal to younger audiences, particularly Generation Alpha, those born in the early 2010s. Jiménez emphasized the importance of finding a balance between the past and the present in music, stating, "If you listen to Bad Bunny's album, it’s based on the sounds of the past, how youth interacts with these sounds. Creating a new space is essential for this dialogue."
The festival organizers expect to welcome approximately 55,000 attendees each day, totaling around 110,000 for the weekend. Previous editions of AXE Ceremonia have featured iconic artists like Björk, Rosalía, Kendrick Lamar, and Snoop Dogg, making it a significant event in the global music scene.
In preparation for the influx of festival-goers, the Metro de la Ciudad de México (Metro CDMX) will extend its service hours. Typically closing at midnight, the Metro will remain operational until 1:00 AM on both days of the festival. This extension aims to ensure that attendees have safe and convenient transportation options after enjoying the performances.
The closest Metro station to Parque Bicentenario is Refinería on Line 7, which will also operate until 1:00 AM. Other lines, including 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, and A, will offer extended service as well. This collaboration between AXE Ceremonia and Metro CDMX highlights the festival's commitment to facilitating safe travel for its audience.
For those planning to attend, there are several transportation options to consider. Besides the Metro, RTP and Ticket2Ride will provide direct bus routes from key locations in the city, with fares starting at $265 MXN for a single day or $460 MXN for both days. Additionally, attendees driving to the event are encouraged to use navigation apps like Waze for the best routes, though parking will be limited, so arriving early is advisable.
As with any large event, there are guidelines regarding what attendees can bring to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Permitted items include small bags or fanny packs (maximum size 30x30 cm), power banks, lightsticks, cream sunscreen (no aerosols), sunglasses, hats, earplugs, cell phones, compact cameras, empty water bottles, raincoats, and personal medications with a prescription. However, large backpacks, umbrellas, folding chairs, professional cameras, drones, illegal substances, sharp objects, aerosols, alcoholic beverages, and outside food will not be allowed.
Festival-goers are advised to wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, stay hydrated, and consume food only at designated areas to avoid gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, they should be mindful of sun protection and the environment by avoiding single-use plastics and respecting the festival grounds.
The anticipation for AXE Ceremonia continues to build as Mexico City prepares to host this dynamic festival, which not only showcases a diverse array of musical talent but also emphasizes cultural exchange and community engagement. With its unique lineup and commitment to inclusivity, AXE Ceremonia is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
