Events Calendar
Looking for things to do on the island? The Cozumel4You Events Calendar is your go-to guide for festivals, concerts, cultural gatherings, and community activities in Cozumel, Mexico. Event dates can sometimes shift from year to year, and we do our best to keep the calendar accurate and current. For the latest updates, feel free to reach out to us or check our Cozumel4You Facebook group for real-time information.
Annual Events
Cozumel is an island that loves to celebrate. From cultural traditions and festivals to sporting events and community gatherings, the calendar is filled with occasions that bring people together year after year. Below you’ll find a selection of annual events to look forward to. Please note that dates are approximate and may change, so be sure to confirm details before making plans.
JANUARY
Three Kings Day – January 6
This celebration is tied to many charitable efforts supporting local children. It is also a time to enjoy rosca de reyes, a sweet bread made by all the island’s bakeries. Hidden inside each cake are small figurines; anyone who finds one in their slice hosts a gathering on February 2.
CARNAVAL
Dates vary – February/March
Carnaval is more than just three days of parades and parties. In the weeks leading up to the main event, island residents enjoy concerts, contests, the election of a king and queen, and even a pet parade. Dates change each year, but schedules are published well in advance.
FEBRUARY
Constitution Day – February 5
A national holiday marked with official speeches and civic ceremonies.
Lionfish Tournament – Late February
Launched in 2010, this tournament quickly became a yearly tradition. Open to all participants, it promotes both sport and environmental awareness.
MARCH
Benito Juárez’s Birthday – March 21
A national holiday honoring the 19th-century president and reform leader.
MAY
Turtle Nesting Season – May to September
Hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay eggs on Cozumel’s beaches. Local authorities coordinate protections, including restrictions on nighttime activity along the east side of the island.
Feria de El Cedral – Early May
One of Cozumel’s oldest traditions, dating back over 150 years. The fair features food stands, dancing, crafts, horse races, and bullfights, commemorating the first Catholic mass celebrated in Mexico.
Sacred Mayan Crossing – Late May
A three-day reenactment of an ancient pilgrimage honoring the goddess Ixchel. Canoes travel between Xcaret on the mainland and Cozumel, accompanied by rituals, music, and celebrations.
Rodeo de Lanchas Mexicanas – Second weekend in May
Cozumel’s largest fishing tournament, held during peak billfish season. It draws record participation each year with prizes that have included cars and even a Hummer.
JUNE
San Pedro and San Pablo Festival – June 29
A religious celebration with a fair, rides, and local crafts.
Bernardo Alonso Fishing Tournament – June
A popular annual sport fishing competition.
SEPTEMBER
Independence Day – September 15–16
Festivities begin on September 15 with the traditional Grito de Independencia at City Hall, followed by fireworks, music, and dancing. On September 16, the celebrations continue with a parade along the downtown waterfront.
Festival of San Miguel Arcángel – September 21–29
In honor of Cozumel’s patron saint, colorful processions fill the streets. The celebration ends with a maritime procession, where fishermen and residents sail from the downtown pier, tossing flowers into the sea.
DÍA DE MUERTOS
November 1–2
Families honor loved ones with altars, flowers, candles, and traditional food.
NOVEMBER
Fishing Tournament “Antonio Fernández González” – Late November
Another key sport fishing event in Cozumel’s calendar.
IRONMAN
Late November
This internationally recognized triathlon attracts athletes from around the world and serves as a qualifier for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.
DECEMBER
Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe – December 1–12
One of Cozumel’s most important religious celebrations. Pilgrimages, parades, and community gatherings lead up to December 12, when thousands participate in runs and walks around the island in devotion to the Virgin of Guadalupe.
