Not only is this event tied to many charitable organizations that help children, however, it’s a great time to eat “rosca de reyes” which is a delicious coffee cake that all local bakeries produce around this time of year. Baked inside each “rosca” are small babies. Anyone who gets one of these in their slice of cake, must have a party on February 2nd for everyone present.
Carnaval
Most people think of Carnaval as just a three day parade and party, however, for island residents, sometimes the events leading up the actual parade can be even more fun. There’s an election of king and queen, a ladies’ event, concerts and even a pet contest. The dates of these events changes yearly, however schedules are posted far enough in advance so you won’t miss out on any of the fun!
February
Carnaval
Festivities continue, and build up to 3 nights of parades through downtown.
Constitution Day - February 5
This is a national holiday, with speeches and ceremonies.
Red Cross Casino Night
This is a yearly fundraiser to benefit the Cozumel Red Cross and is always a lot of fun.
Lionfish Tournament - February 28
This was just started in 2010, however, it was such a success that it’s now planned to be a yearly event. Anyone can enter.
March
Benito Juarez's Birthday - March 21
National Holiday honoring president and leader of the 19th-Century Reform movement
Humane Society Annual Art Auction
This is a much awaited yearly event, and a great chance to see local artists and score some great art, while helping the animals of Cozumel.
April
Currently No Events
May
Turtle Breeding Season
The Hawksbill (or Carey) turtle egg laying season begins in May in Cozumel. During this Cozumel nesting season, the City works in co-ordination with local police and Federal armed forces to limit activity on the east side at nights during turtle nesting season.
Cedral Festival
This is one of Cozumel’s oldest traditions, dating back more than 150 years, and originally commemorated the first catholic mass in Mexico, which was celebrated in El Cedral. During the First week of May, the town of Cedral abounds with food stands, games, dancing and shopping. There’s also exhibitions, races, bullfighting and other events.
Sacred Mayan Passage
The Sacred Mayan Passage ialso take places at the end of May. 26-foot canoes, crewed by 4 – 6 participants, will travel from Xcaret on the mainland, to the island of Cozumel and then back. The three day event reenacts Mayan pilgrimages undertaken by the original Yucatan inhabitants. Beginning with a trip to Xcaret, pilgrims engage in rituals to honor the goddess Ixchel, in an overnight celebration. At the first rays of the sun, the canoes enter the water en route for Cuzamil. Upon arrival, more offerings are made to the goddess, and the canoes return to Playa del Carmen, on the mainland bringing the goddess’ omens of good fortune.
Rodeo de Lanchas Mexicanas - May 14-16
The biggest fishing tournament of the entire year, since it takes place at what’s considered to be the height of billfish season. Tournament official, Oswaldo Pavia, reported this week that they’re expecting record breaking number of registrations. Last year’s grand prize was a Hummer, with a multitude of cars and scooters in the lower categories.
June
San Pedro and San Pablo Festival - June 29
This is a religious festival complete with a small fair, rides, and a craft show.
Fishing Tournament “Bernardo Alonso" - June 4-6
July
Ultimate Diver Challenge
Certified Scuba Divers show off their dive skills and compete for prizes.
August
Annual Fiesta Cozumel Music Party – Playa Azul
Local bands and good music right on the beach.
September
Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) - September 15-16
On September 15 local residents and visitors congregate around the City Hall to participate in the traditional “grito”, or cry for independence. Lead by the Mayor of Cozumel from the balcony at City Hall at 11:00 p.m., the cry “Viva Mexico” is made. Following the “grito” is an impressive fireworks display and other festivities including traditional foods as well as musical and folkloric dance performances. On September 16, Independence Day, the celebrations continue with a parade that goes through Cozumel's downtown waterfront. Throughout the week, residents and visitors are invited to visit a fair near the City Hall that includes food stands, games, dancing and shopping.
Fiesta de San Miguel Arcangel - September 21-29
This event commemorates the patron saint of Cozumel . The celebration begins on September 21, featuring colorful processions that start from the church of San Miguel and go throughout downtown. On the last day, a fishermen carry an image of San Miguel Arcángel to the downtown pier and board a boat. The public accompanies the fisherman to the pier and board a ferry, surrounded by fishing boats, to join the procession by sea, throwing flowers into the ocean as they sail along.
October
Blue Crab Season
Please drive with care.
November
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) - November 1-2
The day to pay respects to those that have passed on. Special altars are made with flowers, candles and food.
Fishing Tournament "Antonio Fernandez Gonzalez" - November 20-21
Cozumel Ironman
December
Dia de la Virgin de Guadalupe - December 1-12
This is one of the most popular religious celebrations here in Cozumel. The celebration begins on the first day of December with a pilgrimage lead through the island, by a variety of religious and non-religious organizations, to the church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. On December 11, adults, and children participate in a walk, or race around the island to show their devotion.
