Carnaval in Cozumel is a wonderful time to visit the island of Cozumel! It's a time when culture comes alive with vibrant colors, lively music, and an infectious energy that sweeps across the island. Carnaval in Cozumel is a celebration deeply rooted in tradition and festivity. So, if you haven’t already done so, find your perfect vacation rental, and then get ready to have fun!
Cozumel Carnaval 2024 Dates
Cozumel’s Carnaval, just like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, falls on a different day each year. It is based on Catholic traditions and begins after the Epiphany (Three Kings Day) on January 6 and culminates with the big, final parade on the day before Ash Wednesday. For 2024, that day will be Tuesday, February 13.
The official Carnaval schedule will typically kick off about one month before the final parade. The festivities begin with lively dances, concerts, vibrant street performances, and cultural exhibitions. Locals come together to select their Carnaval King and Queen, a process that involves showcasing charisma, talent, and a deep understanding of Cozumel's traditions.
Many tourists flood Cozumel for the final Carnaval parade. But if you have the ability, it’s an unforgettable experience to be here for the month of Carnaval activities. That way you really get a feel for the full celebration and community spirit. Welcom Cozumel is here to help you with your long-term rental needs.
Pre-Carnaval Celebrations: What to Expect
The first major event of pre-carnaval is the introduction of candidates for Carnaval King and Queen. While the event is always open to anyone, it is a “locals” event as they are the ones who will be voting for their favorite candidates. If you really do want to attend though, know that 1) you will need a ticket purchased in advance and they tend to sell out and 2) the more local the event, the later it starts. Many times it will be 11 or 12 before start time and go until early morning.
Not to worry though! To keep things open to local families and tourists alike, there will always be events that follow the late-night, paid events in the local park. These events usually start around 7pm. You’ll be able to see the candidates show off their costumes and see when the winners are presented. There will be live music and dance performances so be prepared for some lively evenings in the park!
Cozumel Carnaval Parades
The first parade will be on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday. For 2024, that means that the first Carnaval parade will be on Saturday, February 10. The starting time is usually 6 pm on Melgar near Chedraui. The parade route goes the length of Melgar, turning around north of Airport Boulevard and going back down Melgar to its starting point. This first parade is usually much shorter and has a lower turn-out than the following parades. Take a look to our properties that are close to the waterfront so you can enjoy a short walk to the parades.
The next parade will be the following day, on Sunday. This is a big day for families to watch the parade together, with many people dressed up in costumes and families setting up tables and chairs along the parade route.
Monday there is no parade as everyone gears up for the big finale parade on Tuesday. This will be the longest and most lively of the three parades.
Something that sets Cozumel Carnaval apart from the big parades in Rio or New Orleans, is how family-oriented and “clean fun” they are. While people do drink, getting drunk is not the reason people come out to celebrate Carnaval in Cozumel. It’s to dance, have fun, and catch as much candy as possible from the floats!
Street Dancers During Carnaval in Cozumel
One of the highlights of Carnaval in Cozumel is the “comparsas.” These are the dance groups who participate in the parades. But during the daytime of parade days (and the Monday of no parade) they block off streets around the island for really lively performances in the middle of the streets. Local Facebook groups are usually a great way to get tipped off about where the Comparsas will show up.
The Museum on Melgar will also close the street and have a full day of dancers. There will be bleachers to sit in, though make sure to bring sunglasses and lots of water because the sun hits hard!
But Wait! There’s More!
On Wednesday, the day after the final parade, there is one last, yet important event to put closure to Carnaval. It is the burning of “Juan Carnaval.” This ritual begins with a parade of Juan Carnaval through the streets of Cozumel followed by people dressed as the executioners and some others dressed to mourn the death of Juan.
After the parade of the figure through the streets comes the reading of Juan’s will and then the figure of Juan Carnaval is set on fire officially putting an end to Carnaval.
Tips for Enjoying Carnaval in Cozumel
Plan Ahead: Check local sources or tourism boards for the specific dates of Carnaval each year.
Pack Accordingly: Comfortable clothing and shoes are a must to fully enjoy the festivities. The weather during Carnaval is often excruciatingly hot, but cold fronts also come through bringing cool temps, wind, and rain.
Embrace the Culture: Engage with locals, try traditional foods, and don't shy away from participating in the dances or workshops. Remember, Cozumel is a tourist destination so people on the island are very used to visitors joining in.
Things fill up here during Carnaval, so get your perfect rental early with Welcom Cozumel. Browse through our available properties and please feel free to reach out with any questions.
In Conclusion
Carnaval in Cozumel isn't just an event; it's a celebration of heritage, music, and community. It's an opportunity to witness the island's vibrant culture firsthand and partake in the joyous festivities that bring people together.
So, mark your calendars, embrace the lively spirit, and get ready to be swept away by the colors, music, and infectious energy of Carnaval in Cozumel. It's an experience that will leave you with cherished memories of a celebration unlike any other.
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