Cancún Carnival
February
Stretching over five days, carnival in Cancún is a raucous affair. Watch the costumed floats roll by as the carnival procession winds its way through the streets, and let yourself be distracted by the plethora of food stalls, concerts and exhibitions.
Cancún-Riviera Maya Food & Wine Festival
March
Signalling the rise of the region’s culinary scene, the Cancún-Riviera Food and Wine Festival attracts a horde of superstar chefs (past guest chefs have included El Bulli’s Ferran Adrià). Four days of workshops, demonstrations and samples guarantee you’ll be stuffed.
Riviera Maya Film Festival
March/April
With movies showing throughout the Riviera Maya region, including Parques de las Palapas and Autocinema in Cancún, the film festival is a great opportunity to explore the region’s lesser-visited coastal towns.
Riviera Maya Jazz Festival
November
Recently relocated from Cancún, the jazz festival in nearby Riviera Maya is one of the musical highlights of the year. Dance to the Latin beat as international artists perform over three days of concerts at the Mamita’s Beach Club.
Cancún International Film Festival
November
Showcasing the best of Mexican cinema, the Cancún International Film Festival attracts a cosmopolitan crowd – including the odd celebrity – eager to support both new and established filmmakers.