Carnaval
Feb - March A five-day celebration prior to the start of Catholic lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday. Commencing the weekend before Ash Wednesday, Carnaval is an exuberant celebration of parades, music, dancing, floats and costumes! Carnaval is celebrated around the world
Equinox at Chichen Itza
The celestial event marking the change of seasons happens twice a year around March 21 and September 21. At Chichen Itza, during the spring and fall equinox the pyramid dedicated to Kukulcan, designed so by the ancient Maya, creates a visual illusion of a snake creeping slowly down the pyramid stair. Symbolically speaking the feathered serpent creates a connection between the heavens (day) and the underworld (night) by being visible from the top to the bottom of the pyramid. Thousands of people travel to witness this event creating a festival like atmosphere.
Mexican Independence Day
Celebrated on September 15 & 16 across Mexico, Independence Day recalls the historic call to rise up against colonial powers by re-creating the “Grito” or call to Independence. In plazas and community squares across the nation the people are led in the call “Viva Mexico!”. Following the Grito there is music, dancing and traditional food served in community spaces. In the Riviera Maya and Tulum large celebrations take place in the centro and community plazas. September 16 is a national holiday with banks and other services closed. If you are visiting the Riviera Maya in September join us for the Grito and celebrate this dynamic and exciting nation.
Dia de los Muertos "Day of the Dead"
October 30 – Nov 2 Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, one of Mexico’s most recognized celebrations, Dia de los Muertos is a festive and colorful holiday where families remember and exuberantly celebrate their deceased loved ones. Throughout Riviera Maya, Dia de los Muertos is celebrated with music, dance, art, costumes and parades. Many events will be scheduled throughout the Riviera Maya to celebrate.
Akumal Arts Festival
Visiting Akumal November? Check the Events calendar for dates! Akumal Arts Festival. brings artists from around the world to Akumal for a week of painting, workshops and performances.
Riviera Maya Jazz Festival
Riviera Maya Jazz Festival takes place in Playa del Carmen, usually the last weekend of November or first weekend of December. This three day festival on the beach brings well known international and local acts such as George Benson, Tower of Power, Sergio Mendez, Spyro Gira, Herbie Hancock, Celso Pina, Earth, Wind, and Fire. Mamitas Beach, Playa del Carmen
