A monumental nativity scene featuring more than 4,700 figures depicting 179 biblical scenes is a distinctive cultural feature of Villanueva. Church art, architectural history, music and crafts offer other ways to explore the town’s history.
Culture and Architecture in Town
Templo de San Judas Tadeo is located in Villanueva’s municipal seat. Its main dome is decorated with mosaics of the four Evangelists; the temple also contains gilded altars and retables. Devotion to Saint Jude Thaddeus in Villanueva dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. His patron saint’s day is celebrated on October 28; the annual festivities may vary.
Palacio Municipal also tells the story of Villanueva: the building was constructed in 1858. The public clock Amelia stands on its roof, while inside there is a monumental stained-glass window depicting the history of the town. The clock mechanism may change during operation; the clock itself is part of the described architecture.
Paseo Musical de Antonio Aguilar is a musical walking tour through Villanueva’s central streets, guided by QR codes. It ends at a building that was once Antonio Aguilar’s home. Before setting out, check that the QR installations are in place.
Festivals and Handicrafts
If you’re visiting around May 15, Fiesta de San Isidro may be a reason to go: it takes place on that date every year. It includes a horseback procession that ends with a Pastorela. Festival Antonio Aguilar takes place in June and features artistic and academic performances, photography exhibitions, dances, music, and charro-taurine activities. The annual program may vary; check the dates and program for the relevant year before your trip.
Feria Regional de Villanueva takes place every year on October 28. It includes religious, traditional and artistic activities throughout the municipality. As part of the fair, Festival de la Torta spotlights the municipal area’s regional torta as a specialty. Confirm the current program before your trip.
Villanueva’s handicrafts include sarapes, needlework, woodwork, cantera stonework, as well as saddles and leather goods rooted in the charro tradition. This variety encompasses textiles, wood and stonework, and crafts related to charro culture.
La Quemada in the Municipality
Museo de Sitio de La Quemada in the municipality of Villanueva reopened on March 15, 2025. Five chronologically ordered thematic modules present the history of the site. Check current visitor operations before your visit. La Quemada’s largest ball court measures 80 meters long and 15 meters wide.
Regional Cuisine and Places to Stay
Huicholas, a regional bread made with wheat flour, sugar and honey, are available around the main square. Villanueva’s local foods also include condoches de frijoles, a type of wheat-based gordita. Festival de la Torta puts another regional specialty in the spotlight: the municipality’s torta.
In the municipality of Villanueva, Hacienda La EncarnaciĂłn offers accommodations, a temazcal, a spa and a recreation area with baths fed by thermal springs. Confirm which services are currently offered before booking.
Discover more destinations: Pinos, Jerez De GarcĂa Salinas, PabellĂłn, Sombrerete, RĂo FrĂo, Villa Garcia, Apozol, Fresnillo
For the full travel overview: Zacatecas.
