Here’s our regular round up of festivals and events in Cancun, Riviera Maya and Yucatan in the next few months.
Anniversary of the Founding of Merida, January 6
On January 6, inhabitants of Merida, the state capital of Yucatan, observe the anniversary of the founding of the city in 1542 by Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo. The evening of January 5, a procession of city dwellers and local trova musicians (guitar trios) makes its way to the main square to sing the traditional Mañanitas birthday serenade as a tribute to their hometown, followed by a fireworks display. The next morning there is a Mass in the Cathedral and a packed program of concerts, dance performances, art exhibits and more as part of Merida City Fest (see below).
Merida City Fest, January 4-21
More than 150 dance and theatre performances, concerts, movies, art exhibitions and literary workshops to celebrate the 476th anniversary of Merida.
Feria de la Candelaria, January 22 – February 2, Valladolid
This traditional fair is dedicated to the patron saint of Valladolid, the Virgen de la Candelaria. Events include livestock, craft, jewelry and food exhibitions, processions, concerts and dances.
Cozumel Carnival, February 7-13
Dating from 1876, Cozumel Carnival is the oldest Carnival in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of the oldest in Mexico.
Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres, Merida, Campeche and Valladolid will also be holding their own Carnival celebrations; the dates may vary slightly in each location, February 6-13.
Isla Blanca Kite Festival, February 24 and 25
This fun event for families takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Isla Blanca north of Punta Sam.
Spring Equinox at Chichen Itza, March 20-22
The famous light and shadow serpent of Kukulcan appears on the El Castillo Pyramid at Chichen Itza and descends from the heavens at sunset on the day of the Spring Equinox (March 20-22). It is also visible the day before and after, cloud cover permitting.
Elsewhere in the Yucatan, at dawn on the day of the Equinox the rising sun appears through the doorway of the Temple of the Dolls in the ancient city of Dzibilchaltun to the north of Merida.
The spring equinox officially falls on March 20 in 2018 but the largest gathering at Chichen Itza takes place on March 21, a national holiday in Mexico. If you are planning a trip to Chichen Itza, Thomas More Travel offers a variety of tour options
