Events You Might Want to Attend In Cancun
Known for its beaches, resorts, and nightlife, Cancun has been a popular tourist destination. Its rich culture, wildlife, and natural beauty are just a few of several reasons to visit. Though you may plan your vacations around weather and personal holidays, it’s important to look into Mexican celebrations and traditions that happen yearly to craft a fulfilling cultural experience.
We provide a useful guide on the exciting yearly events to help you arrange a gratifying trip for you and your loved ones.
Cancun Mexico Events
There are several exciting Cancun Mexico events throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to explore the city during the warm or cold season, there are a plethora of reasons to come out and celebrate!
Día de Los Reyes (Day of the Kings) - January 6
This holiday celebrates the day the Three Wise Men gave gifts to Jesus Christ. Not only is it the day that officially ends the Christmas festivities, but the day when people exchange gifts!
Mexicans typically serve Rosca de Reyes, a sweet oval-shaped pastry. “Rosca” means wreath and “reyes” means kings. The bread is shaped in the form of a wreath with candied fruit on top and a figurine of baby Jesus baked inside. Whoever gets the slice with Jesus is expected to host a party on Dia de La Candelaria.
Día de La Candelaria (Candlemas) - February 2
Though it might be Groundhog Day in the U.S., Mexicans celebrate Dia de La Candelaria, or Candlemas. On this day, people dress up figurines of Christ child in outfits and take them to the church to be blessed.
They also get together with family and friends to eat tamales and continue the celebration of Dia de Los Reyes. Though it is considered mainly a religious and family tradition, in places like Tlacotalpan, Veracruz, it’s a large fiesta filled with bullfights and parades.
Carnaval - February 19 - 25
Carnaval is very much like Mardi Gras in New Orleans. A five-day celebration before Lent kicks in on Ash Wednesday, it’s a time to indulge and party. It’s celebrated enthusiastically with parades, floats, extravagant costumes, music, dancing, and drinking.
Children’s Day - April 30
If you’re going to Cancun with your children, consider taking them in April. Celebrated on April 30th each year, Children’s Day is a time to celebrate your youngsters. There are many parties and special treats provided to children on this day.
Cinco de Mayo - May 5
You might expect a huge party to take place on Cinco De Mayo, but this day is just like any ordinary day in Cancun, unfortunately. Though there are not any special events taking place on this day, we figured it would be helpful to mention this, as many travelers may expect a large celebration. This holiday is actually more widely celebrated in the U.S. than it is in Mexico.
Fiesta de la Playa en Cancun - August 12 - 14
As Cancun attracts a wide variety of visitors for its turquoise waters and white sand, Fiesta de la Playa is the perfect event to take advantage of these beautiful and exciting features. The ultimate beach experience, this event is one of the largest beach parties. The seven-mile stretch between Cancun and Punta Nizuc turns into a fiesta filled with surfing competitions, live music, Frisbee contests, and much more.
Independence Day - September 16
This is an exciting Mexican celebration and holiday filled with incredible fireworks, dancing, mariachi bands, and drinking throughout town and on the beach. Large crowds gather at the main government office, where they wait for the mayor to shout the Cry of Dolores, repeating Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s call for independence in 1810. The crowd responds with “¡Viva México!” and then the party commences!
Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) - November 1 - 2
One of the most famous celebrations deeply rooted in Mexican culture. The Day of the Dead is a tradition dating back to the Aztecs who, as many cultures in the past did, honored their ancestors. The celebration usually develops around colorful shrines made in steps or layers, symbolizing each one of the past generations, covered with bright cempazuchitl flowers and fresh fruits, pan de muerto (traditional sweet bread), tequila and candles.
Christmas - December 24
Mexicans celebrate Christmas on the 24th rather than the 25th. Families often make and eat tamales on this day, as well a kind of hot beverage called ponche de frutas made with spices, fruit, sugar cane, and sometimes, rum. So if you’re headed there during the holidays, it’s important to keep in mind that Christmas will come a day early.
The wonderful aspect of Mexican celebrations and events is that they incorporate people of all ages. There are several opportunities to connect with your family and friends in beautiful landscapes filled with tradition and culture. By planning your trips around these events, you’ll be able to experience all that Cancun has to offer.
Add tours to your Cancun vacation
No trip to Cancun is complete without a healthy dose of adventure! Cancun Adventures is the leading tour company in the region, offering an extensive selection of exciting things to do in Cancun. With over 20 years of experience, our team is dedicated to creating memorable, thrilling, and safe travel experiences.
