Special Events and Festivals in Akumal and Tulum
Akumal and Tulum are vibrant areas with a rich cultural heritage and a calendar full of exciting events and festivals. Here are some of the highlights:
January
New Year’s Day Celebrations: Join the locals in celebrating the New Year with beach parties, fireworks, and various festivities along the coast.
February
Carnaval: A lively festival featuring parades, music, dancing, and colorful costumes. Tulum hosts various events during this time, celebrating with vibrant street parties and cultural performances.
March
Spring Equinox at Chichen Itza: While not in Tulum or Akumal, this nearby event draws many visitors who come to witness the magical descent of the serpent shadow on the pyramid of Kukulkan. It’s a significant cultural experience worth the trip.
April
Riviera Maya Film Festival: Held in various locations along the Riviera Maya, including Tulum, this festival showcases a range of films from international and Mexican filmmakers.
MAY
Festival of the Virgin of the Sea: This is a local celebration in Akumal where fishermen honor the Virgin of the Sea with a boat parade, music, and traditional dances.
JUNE
Tulum Food, Spirits & Wine Festival: A celebration of culinary arts featuring renowned chefs, delicious local dishes, wine tastings, and cooking demonstrations.
Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins: From June to November, Akumal’s beaches become nesting grounds for sea turtles. Visitors can witness these majestic creatures laying their eggs at night.
JULY
Fiesta de la Santa Cruz: This traditional festival includes religious ceremonies, folkloric dances, and vibrant processions, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.
AUGUST
Sabor a Cabo: A gastronomic festival in nearby Cabo San Lucas, attracting food lovers to sample gourmet dishes from the region’s top chefs. While not in Tulum or Akumal, it’s a notable event on the peninsula.
SEPTEMBER
Mexican Independence Day (September 16th): Experience patriotic celebrations with fireworks, parades, and public festivities. Both Akumal and Tulum come alive with vibrant decorations and cultural events.
OCTOBER
Tulum Vegan Fest: Celebrating veganism with a series of events including food stalls, workshops, and wellness activities.
Sea Turtle Hatching Season Peaks: From October to December, watch baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean. Guided tours are available to ensure minimal disturbance to the turtles.
November
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): An important cultural event in Mexico, celebrated with altars, offerings, and processions to honor deceased loved ones. Tulum hosts various events and ceremonies during this time.
Riviera Maya Jazz Festival: Held in Playa del Carmen, this nearby festival attracts international jazz artists and enthusiasts for a series of free concerts on the beach.
December
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (December 12th): Religious festivities honoring Mexico’s patron saint, with processions, masses, and cultural events.
Christmas and New Year Celebrations: Festive decorations, special dinners, and beach parties mark the holiday season, providing a joyful atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.
Winter Solstice Celebrations: Join local communities in celebrating the shortest day of the year with various cultural and spiritual events.
Celestial Events
Meteor Showers: Throughout the year, several meteor showers, such as the Perseids in August and the Geminids in December, can be observed in the clear skies of Akumal and Tulum. These events provide stunning night-time displays for star-gazers.
Full Moon Gatherings: Many local beaches host full moon gatherings where visitors can enjoy music, dance, and a serene atmosphere under the luminous full moon.
These events offer a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy traditional music and dance, and celebrate with the community. Be sure to check the local event calendars for specific dates and details during your stay.