Here is our regular round up of upcoming Cancun, Riviera Maya and Yucatan events.
Fiesta de la Purísima Concepción, Izamal, December 1-12
The faithful gather to honor the patron saint of Izamal, the Virgin de la Concepción and the town celebrates with processions of the gremios or guilds and neighborhoods, masses, fireworks, flowers and the traditional vaquería or villa fiesta featuring live music, dances and cuisine.
Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, throughout Mexico, December 12
The patron saint of Mexico is honored nationwide with serenades of “Las Mañanitas,” the traditional birthday song the evening of December 11, offerings of fragrant flowers, pilgrimages and masses.
Christmas, December 24 & 25
In the run up to Christmas, there are parties called posadas that symbolize Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging and their final welcome. On December 24 or Nochebuena, Mexican families gather for dinner and to celebrate the birth of Christ.
Dia de Reyes, January 6
On January 6, Epiphany, Mexican children traditionally receive their gifts from the Reyes Magos or Three Kings. Families then gather to cut the rosca de reyes or kings cake with hot chocolate. According to the custom, whoever cuts a slice containing a tiny figure of baby Jesus has to host another get-together on February 2, Candlemass Day to eat tamales.
January 6 also marks the start of an important traditional fair in Tizimin in northern Yucatan.
Anniversary of the Founding of Merida, January 6
On January 6, inhabitants of Merida, state capital of Yucatan observe the anniversary of the founding of the city in 1542 by Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo. Observed with a procession and mass, it marks the start of the month-long City Festival, a gala event featuring concerts, dance performances, art exhibits and more.
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 an agricultural fair, processions, concerts and dances.
Check this blog during the year for more Cancun, Riviera Maya and Yucatan events.
