EVENTS
February 12 to February 16
Carnaval
A week-long pre-lenten celebration will feature parades, floats, traditional regional foods, dancing and musicians from Mexico, Belize and Cuba. The musical group, “Guaranducha,” performs throughout the town, singing local political satires. Another group performs “El Torito Huay Kax Che,” while men in bull costume chase men dressed as women. The highlight of the week is the Comparsas Ball featuring group dance competition.
May 14 to 16
Rodeo de Lancha Mexicanas
National sport-fishing tournament that brings together competitors from Mexico and around the world to fish for dorado, marlin, tuna, sierra and other game fish.
US$ 50,000.00 in Prizes.
April 30 to May 3
Feria del Cedral (Cedral Fair)
The anniversary of the first Catholic mass in Mexico, which was celebrated in El Cedral. The event features cattle exhibitions, races, rides and bullfights.
May 30
Marine Day fishing tournament
First Prize a VW Bug.
June 27 to July 4
San Pedro y San Pablo
A religious festival honoring Saint Peter and Saint Paul, complete with a fair, rides, food and craft shows.
September 13 to September 16
Fiesta de Independencia Nacional (Independence Day)
A nationwide festival celebrating Mexican Independence Day.
September 26 to October 3
Fiestas de San Miguel Arcangel
Festivals honoring Cozumel’s patrons saint, Saint Miguel.
Novermber 1 to November 2
Day of the Dead
National religious celebration to tribute the dead.
December 1 to December 12
Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe
Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most popular celebrations in Mexico and the most important religious celebration on the island of Cozumel. Cozumeleños are very devoted to the Virgin of Guadeloupe. Celebration kicks off on the first day of December with a pilgrimage lead through the island, by a variety of religious and non-religious organizations, to the Parish of Our Lady of Guadeloupe. On December 9, groups embark on another pilgrimage to the parish and celebrate a Thanksgiving mass. The festivities continue with a race around the island on December 11, with adults, youths and children joyfully participating. The race begins at the Guadeloupe Parish, crossing through the island to return to the Parish in time for a festival full of delicious regional foods, folkloric dances and musical performances. The celebration includes the traditional mariachi bands singing to the Virgin, Patroness of Mexico and Empress of America, throughout the day. On December 12 several masses are held in the Parish and celebrations with regional foods, dance and music.