The most popular attraction in the Masaya area – Volcán Masaya, Laguna Apoyo, artisan markets – are open year-round, although you might find strolling the area to be a bit more temperate during the summer, when daily rains keep the street cooler. Nicaraguan municipalities hold large celebrations in honor of their patron saints, since some of the best of these Fiestas Patronales are held in the towns around Masaya, check ahead to see what dates they occur and if you can arrange your trip around one or two. Although each saint has one official day, Fiestas Patronales usually take place over the course of a week or two. Masaya is a center for religious festivals, including the longest in Central America, the festival in honor of San Jerónimo, which last from Sept. 30 to the end of December.