Cozumel Holiday Event and Festival Schedule for 2025

Want to know exactly what’s going on in Cozumel and when? This Cozumel Holiday, Event, and Festival Schedule is your month-by-month Cozumel events calendar for 2025. It’s the exact guide I wish I’d had when I moved here in 2017.

Inside, you’ll find Cozumel’s most popular annual events, cultural festivals, parades, and public holidays plus insider tips on the best times to visit and when to expect closures. Think of it as your circle-the-dates festival calendar, whether you want high-energy celebrations like Carnaval or peaceful off-season moments.

From the island’s most colorful parade schedules to once-a-year traditions like the Sacred Mayan Crossing, this holiday calendar makes it easy to time your trip. You’ll see when the streets fill with music, when to book early for big sporting events, and when to avoid crowds if you prefer a quieter island vibe.

🎉 Plan Your Trip Like a Local – Don’t Miss a Single Fiesta!
📥 Cozumel Holiday, Event, and Festival Schedule 2025

Complete with over 70 event dates in an easy to read chart, so you can time your trip perfectly.

📅 Updated for 2025 • 🏝 Holiday and Bank Closures • ✅ Instant download

Why Plan Around Cozumel Events?

Cozumel’s calendar is full of color, tradition, and excitement. From the electric energy of Carnaval 2025 to the thrill of Ironman Cozumel, visitors can see the island at its most vibrant or plan for quieter, off-peak moments.

Cultural observances, religious celebrations, as well as public and bank holiday closures all shape daily life here. Some of these moments happen just once a year. Blink and they’re gone. Knowing what’s happening helps you:

• Experience island traditions first-hand
• Avoid banks closures on major holidays
• Time your trip with can’t-miss festivals and events
• Plan around parade and race traffic
• Capture stunning photos and savor local flavors

Whether you’re curious about cultural festivals, monthly happenings, or simply wondering “What’s going on in Cozumel this month?”, this guide pulls it all together in one place.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Bookmark this guide now so you can check the Cozumel 2025 events before you book flights or hotels. It’s the easiest way to make sure you never miss an event.

TL;DR – 2025 Cozumel Festivals, Events, and Holidays at a Glance

Planning your island getaway? This Cozumel events calendar gives you all the key dates, from cultural events and annual festivals to public holidays and major sporting competitions, so you can time your trip perfectly.

Don’t Miss These Annual Cozumel Events 2025

Add these Cozumel annual events and cultural festivals to your Cozumel itinerary.  These are worth timing your trip for.

Cozumel Annual Events 2025

Event	Month	Highlight
Cozumel Carnaval	February / March	Parades, music, and island-wide celebration
El Cedral Festival	April / May	Rodeos, bullfights, and traditional foods
Sacred Mayan Journey	May	Reenactment of an ancient Maya pilgrimage from the mainland to Cozumel
Independence Day	September	Patriotic parades and fireworks
Día de los Muertos	November	Altars and artistic tributes across town
Ironman Cozumel 2025	November	Global triathlon event with traffic impacts

Cozumel Calendar of Events 2025

If you’re planning your trip around this Cozumel Holiday Event and Festival Schedule, this guide reveals the best months for Cozumel cultural events and local traditions, helping you catch the island’s most authentic experiences.

Things to do in January in Cozumel

Discover what’s happening in Cozumel this month, from New Year’s Day to Three Kings Day. Explore the Cozumel holiday schedule and annual events that kick off the year with color, food, and celebration.

New Year’s Day: Cozumel’s Calm and Sunny Start to the Year

• 📅 Date(s): 1/1/2025
• 📝 What to expect: A relaxing day for the locals following a night of celebration.

Three Kings Day (Rosca de Reyes): A Sweet Tradition

• 📅 Date(s): 1/6/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Three Kings Day in Cozumel wraps up the Christmas season with a sweet bread called Rosca de Reyes, which we see all the time when we’re grocery shopping at Mega or Soriana. If you find the hidden baby Jesus inside, you’re hosting the next party, which usually consists of tamales at Candelmas on February 2^nd.  It’s a heartwarming tradition filled with joy, gifts for the little ones, and a truly local cultural experience.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Families traveling with kids or anyone curious about traditional Cozumel holidays and authentic island celebrations.

Things to do in February in Cozumel

February brings plenty of love and local flavor. From Cozumel Carnaval to Valentine’s Day and traditional celebrations, it’s a lively month on the Cozumel festival calendar.

Candlemas (Festival de la Virgen de la Candelaria): A Cozumel Cultural Tradition

• 📅 Date(s): 2/2/2025
• 📝 What to expect: This meaningful traditional Cozumel holiday follows the Three Kings Day tradition from January 6th. If you found the baby Jesus in your slice or sweet bread, you’re the one who’s hosting a tamale dinner! It’s one of those intimate local experiences in Cozumel that’s all about family, food, and faith.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Mainly celebrated by locals, but if you’re lucky enough to be invited, it’s a delicious way to experience authentic island culture.

Constitution Day in Cozumel: National Pride and Community Events

• 📅 Date(s): 2/5/2025 but celebrated on 2/3/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Constitution Day is marked with a simple but meaningful civic ceremony early in the morning. Local officials and students gather at the Explanada de la Bandera (Flag Pole) near the ferry port downtown, to perform flag honors and sing the national and state anthems.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Anyone wanting to get a glimpse into Mexican national pride and civic spirit.

Super Bowl Sunday 2025: Where to Watch in Game in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s): 2/9/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Yes, the Super Bowl is a big deal here in Cozumel, just like the States. Expect big screens, cold drinks, and a fun mix of locals and tourists cheering on their favorite team. We’ve watched The Big Game at Woody’s, Fat Tuesday, and Casa Cuzamil, to name a few, but other popular locations that play The Game are The Pub, Red Zone, No Name Bar, La International, Wet Wendy’s, and Dick’s Dive amongst others.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to watch the game at one of these local spots…even if the Cowboys don’t make it past the playoffs. Restaurants and bars fill up fast, so plan to arrive early.

Valentine’s Day in Cozumel: Romantic Dinners, Beach Walks and Island Love

• 📅 Date(s): 2/14/2025
• 📝 What to expect: It’s perfect weather for having a romantic dinner, sea side. Portsol and Buccancos at Night are just a few of the top spots to to enjoy dinner with a view.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: If you want to do something special for your sweetie, I recommend setting reservations in advance.  Since its high season until April, you may not be able to get the table you want at the last minute.

Flag Day in Cozumel: Patriotic Celebrations and Local Traditions

• 📅 Date(s): 2/24/2025
• 📝 What to expect: A patriotic civic ceremony at the Explanada de la Bandera (Flag Pole) near the ferry port downtown, early in the morning. Locals honor the Mexican flag with music, speeches, and school presentations.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Great for early risers and anyone interested in Cozumel cultural events or a more local, civic experience.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: We usually grab a bite to eat at Palmeras restaurant in front of the ferry port when they open at 7:00 AM on this morning and wait to see when everyone starts to arrive for the festivities before we head over.

March 2025: Cozumel Carnaval and Cultural Events You Don’t Want to Miss

March is Carnaval season. Don’t miss the highlight of the Cozumel Holiday Event and Festival Schedule with parades, costumes, music, and local food.

Cozumel Carnaval 2025: Parades, Music, and Magic

• 📅 Dates: 3/1 – 3/2 – 3/4/2025
• 📝What to expect: Carnaval is one of the can’t-miss Cozumel festivals and the biggest celebration on the island. All month long, you’ll find parties, contests, and colorful events, leading up to three nights of high-energy parades (over 4 days), dazzling costumes, and live music.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Everyone. Carnaval parade is free event and one of the most family-friendly events in Cozumel. Think of it as the “Rated G” version of Mardi Gras. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, you’re welcome to join the fun, especially if you love dancing in the street or watching from the sideline.

While not announced until usually mid-January, the Parade for Cozumel Carnaval 2026 will most likely be February 2/14, 2/15 and 2/17/2026.

🛏Check back here for the Cozumel parade schedule and book your stay early if this event is on your must-see list.  Rooms near parade routes go fast → Vista Del Mar, Casa Mexicana, and Puerto Libre.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: The parade can last 3 or more hours, so a few years ago we bought a folding chair for $10 at Mega (grocery store) to sit on while we watched from the sidelines. Trust me, it will save your feet.

Paint and Run 5K: A Colorful Fun 5K Run During Carnaval

• 📅 Date(s): 3/2/2025
• 📝 What to expect: This is a festive, family-friendly event where participants run or walk (ahh, that would be me) a 5K course while being splashed with colorful powders, creating a fun, non-competitive atmosphere. Starts at 4 PM at the Explanada de la Bandera (Flag Pole) near the ferry port downtown.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Open to all ages and fitness levels, making it a lively celebration for both visitors and locals that takes place during Carnival.  Tickets can be purchased at Senior Frogs near the lighthouse at Punta Langosta for $15 – $20 and the proceeds go to support the Child Development Centers in Cozumel.

Benito Juárez’s Birthday Memorial

• 📅 Date(s): 3/21/2025 Celebrated on Monday of that week 3/17/2025.
• 📝 What to expect: This national holiday in Mexico celebrates the birth of Benito Juárez, one of the country’s most beloved presidents.

Spring Equinox at San Gervasio: Celebrate Maya Heritage on Sacred Ground

March brings light, balance, and ancient wisdom to Cozumel, especially during the Spring Equinox at San Gervasio.

• 📅 Date(s): 3/20/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Mark the Spring Equinox with a quiet visit to the San Gervasio ruins, where people gather to honor Maya traditions. It’s one of the more spiritual local experiences in Cozumel and a peaceful way to connect with island history.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Ideal for travelers who appreciate ancient history, sacred spaces, and nature-centered events.

🧭The best guided tour during the Spring Equinox is → San Gervisio to experience a front-row seat to history.

April in Cozumel: Semana Santa, Cedral Fest and Spring Celebrations

• Right after the winter high season and Easter crowds leave, spring shoulder season in Cozumel begins. This is when you’ll find the lowest rates of the year; grab them before summer crowds return.

Holy Week in Mexico – Semana Santa: A Week of Religious Events in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s): Starts 4/13/2025 (Palm Sunday), and ends 4/20/2025 (Easter Sunday)
• 📝 What to expect: Semana Santa is one of the most spiritually significant weeks of the year, marked by meaningful church services and religious processions, especially on Good Friday. Expect crowds at the beaches too. It’s a popular travel week for Mexican nationals.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Perfect for those curious about Cozumel cultural events, religious celebrations, spiritual travelers, or anyone who wants to witness an authentic island tradition.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Many businesses, including banks, are closed Maundy Thursday and Good Friday but open on the next day, Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday. Our Cozumel Holiday Event Festival Schedule 2025 has a complete list of all bank holidays

K’iin Soul: A celebration of the Sun in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s):  Weekends at sunset from late April to the end of July
• 📝 What to expect: K’iin Soul is a free Cozumel cultural event blending Maya music, dance, and purification ceremonies held at the Explanada de la Bandera (Flag Pole) near the ferry port downtown. An open-air celebration of the sun and island spirit.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Ideal for visitors seeking meaningful local experiences in Cozumel, whether you want to observe or actively participate in this soulful celebration under the stars.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: We usually head over about an hour before sunset, grab a marquesita, and snag a good seat to watch the performers in their traditional Maya outfits before the ceremony kicks off just before sunset. It’s customary to provide a tip to support the performers at the end of the event.

Cedral Fest and Fiesta de Santa Cruz: One of Cozumel’s Oldest Cultural Celebrations

• 📅 Date(s): Late April to early May (5-day event)
• 📝 What to expect: One of the oldest island celebrations in Cozumel, Cedral Fest includes traditional dances, rodeos, horse races, live music, and religious ceremonies, with an opportunity to experience local food in Cozumel. Tamales and my favorite cochinita pibil, a slow roasted pork dish are on the menu. It’s a real slice of cowboy-meets-Caribbean life!  The entry fee is $2 – $3, paid in cash-only at the gate, making it one of the most budget-friendly activities in Cozumel, while supporting the local village. 
• 👥 Who it’s for: Great for both visitors and locals who want a taste of traditional Cozumel holidays and a fun mix of music, culture, and community.

🧭 Skip the crowds and see El Cedral’s charm any time of year ⟶ this tour takes you there.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Buses run every 30 minutes from Chedraui grocery store on Melgar, for $5 per person each way, to Cedral Fest. If you go on the last day, you’ll also be able to experience Fiesta de Santa Cruz. Remember to bring small bills, for extras like the rodeo and food.

May in Cozumel: Labor Day, Cinco de Mayo, and Traditional Island Festivities

May begins low season but the Cozumel holiday schedule is packed with patriotic pride and steeped in deep traditions like the Sacred Mayan Crossing.

Labor Day (May Day) in Cozumel: Celebrate the Working Spirit of Mexico

• 📅 Date(s): 5/1/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Similar to the United States Labor Day, with a day off for the public, but still many locations open to serve tourist.

Cinco de Mayo (Battle of Puebla): Celebrates Mexican Heritage

• 📅 Date(s): 5/5/2025
• 📝 What to expect: While the day commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, in Cozumel it tends to be a relatively low-key occasion without large celebrations like in Puebla or some other Mexican regions.
• 👥 Who it’s for: For the locals, it’s a day of quiet reflection.  For the tourists, it’s mainly an excuse to grab some fish tacos and a margarita (or 2), as restaurants often cater to what us gringos think Cinco de Mayo stands for, with drinks specials.  Buen Provecho.

Mexican Boat Rodeo (Rodeo de Lanchas): Cozumel’s Largest Fishing Tournament

• 📅 Date(s): 5/17 – 5/18/2025
• 📝 What to expect:  A catch and release sport fishing tournament that brings together local and regional anglers for a weekend of competitive fishing and celebration.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Perfect for sport fishing fans and anyone looking for a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-path, local event.

Sacred Mayan Crossing: Spiritual Pilgrimage and Cultural Revival

• 📅 Date(s): 5/16 –5/17/2025
• 📝 What to expect: This is another can’t-miss Cozumel festival.  Sacred Mayan Crossing is a beautiful tribute to the ancient Maya pilgrimage that once brought devoted paddlers to the island. Today, hundreds still make the crossing by canoe from Xcaret to Cozumel, in a powerful celebration of island traditions. Expect heartfelt rituals, moving ceremonies, and a deep homage to the goddess Ixchel. The event itself is free to watch, but since it takes place inside Chankanaab National Park, there’s a $29 park entry fee.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Any culture lovers, spiritual explorers, history fans, and anyone drawn to local experiences in Cozumel will want this event on their radar.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Day 1 of the event includes the majority of the ceremonies and the canoes start arriving from Xcaret shortly after 10:30 AM – 11 AM. If you decide to go on day 2, the canoes leave at around 8:00 AM, to much less fanfare, as they return to Xcaret, but it is a good opportunity to stay and enjoy the park for the rest of the day.

June in Cozumel: The Quietest Month of the Year

June in Cozumel is the start of hurricane season, which means fewer crowds and a quieter, more peaceful vibe. It’s the perfect time for travelers who want to slow down, soak in the island’s beauty, and enjoy a more relaxed side of Cozumel.

Hurricane Season: What to Know About  the Weather in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s): June 1st – November 30th
• 📝 What to expect: Cozumel is located in the Western Caribbean and usually experiences the majority of hurricane activity, if there is any, towards the end of August to October.
• More info 🔗: Visit our Government Tourism Office for hurricane preparation procedures and check the radar for weather in Cozumel at NOAA Official Weather Site to plan around hurricane season.

People always ask if it’s safe to travel here during hurricane season.   I say a resounding YES!  The last major hurricane was Wilma in 2005.  I’m from Texas and some of the smaller hurricanes I’ve experienced here on the island have paled in comparison to some storms we’ve had back home.

✅Don’t wait until the forecast changes, get covered now so you can relax with ⟶ Safety Wing travel insurance. (This is general information only. Coverage depends on your policy. Check details with the insurer before buying.)

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Stroll through the Art Fair artisan market in Benito Juarez Park, in the square with the clock tower, Friday through Sunday nights. It’s especially charming during the low season and the perfect way to wrap up a Sunday evening on family night. This is one of those off-season events in Cozumel you won’t want to miss.

July in Cozumel: The Height of Low Season, Quiet but Colorful

July is quiet here in Cozumel, which is great for people who like to take it slow and experience fewer crowds.

Cozumel Gay Pride Parade: Celebrate Love and Diversity on the Island

• 📅 Date(s): 7/6/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Expect music, color, and joy! The island celebrates inclusivity and love, lighting up the streets with dancing, and high island energy. An uplifting local experience in Cozumel.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Everyone! Especially LGBTQ+ travelers and allies who want to celebrate pride with a tropical twist.

August in Cozumel is for Competitive Events

Two competitive events dominate the month of August here in Cozumel.

Oceanman Cozumel: Open Water Swimming Competition

• 📅 Date(s): 8/3/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Oceanman is a global open-water swimming event that brings elite and amateur swimmers to Cozumel’s crystal-clear waters. Definitely one of the more athletic Cozumel events 2025.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Swimmers, sports fans, and spectators who love endurance events and sunny beaches.

Mayanman: Triathlon and Cultural Adventure in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s): 8/3/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Mayanman is a triathlon-style endurance race blending sport and the picturesque Cozumel landscape. Expect a serious challenge paired with stunning island scenery. A unique sporting and cultural event that celebrates the ancient Maya spirit.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Athletes, adrenaline junkies, and fans of adventure racing.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: June through August tend to be fairly slow around the island, with fewer cruise ships.   Check out our Cozumel Cruise Port Guide to find a day when there are no cruise ships arriving (usually Sundays) and head to a beach club to enjoy waves without the normal cruise ship tourist crowds.

Perseid Meteor Shower: Stargazing from Cozumel’s Shores

• 📅 Date(s): 8/12 – 8/13/2025 (Peak Days)
• 📝 What to expect: Every August, the Perseid Meteor Shower puts on a magical show as Earth cruises through the trail of comet Swift-Tuttle, sending bright, speedy “shooting stars” streaking across the sky. On a clear, dark night, you might catch 50 to 75 of them an hour. Definitely add this to your Cozumel events 2025 bucket list.

🛏Escape the glow of town lights ⟶ stay at Ventanas al Mar for front-row views of the Perseid Meteor Shower.

🚘 Chase starry skies on Cozumel’s quiet side ⟶ rent a car through Discover Cars and catch the Perseid Meteor Shower in on the islands East side.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Cozumel is located 11 miles off the coast of Playa del Carmen.  The other side of the island is 10 miles further, putting it 21 miles away from any significant light pollution.  This is an excellent opportunity to stay at the only hotel located on the east side of the island, Ventanas al Mar, for a first row seat for this celestial event.

September is Considered Patriot Month

September is packed with patriotism and heritage. It’s one of the best months for local culture in Cozumel.

Shout of Dolores (Grito de Dolores): Viva México in Cozumel!

• 📅 Date(s): 9/15/2025
• 📝 What to expect: The Grito de Dolores is the loudest, proudest night of the year. The mayor rings the bell in a re-enactment at 11:00 PM and shouts “¡Viva México!” at Andres Quintanta Roo Park (next to Mega grocery store) to honor the 1810 call to revolt against Spain. It’s followed by spectacular fireworks and fun, well into the night.
• 👥 Who it’s for: It’s for everyone, both locals and visitors alike, who want to join in the music, fireworks, and pure Mexican pride that fills the streets.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Here’s what I wish I’d known the first time I went. Arrive to the park early, before 10:00 PM to eat at one of the food stalls and bring a folding chair to enjoy both the re-enactment and fireworks.

Mexican Independence Day in Cozumel: Celebration Independence on the Island

• 📅 Date(s): 9/16/2025
• 📝 What to expect: The festivities get underway in the morning with a parade that starts at City Hall, near Andres Quintana Roo Park and continues along the water front.  There is also a fair, and plenty of food stalls and games to enjoy.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Everyone who loves culture and community pride.

Ironman 70.3:  A Prestigious Triathlon in Paradise

• 📅 Date(s): 9/21/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Athletes from around the world compete in this half-triathlon that includes a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run. It’s a major event that draws spectators and boosts local tourism. Expect road closures
• 👥 Who it’s for: Athletes, triathlon fans, and spectators looking to cheer on the competitors.

AsTri Cozumel Triathlon: A Top Sporting Event for 2025

• 📅 Date(s): 9/27/2025
• 📝 What to expect: The AsTri Cozumel Triathlon is a super fun, action-packed triathlon. There will be road closures along the route.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Ideal for first-timers and local families to seasoned triathletes.  And even if you’re not racing, it’s a blast to come cheer on the competitors.

San Miguel Arcángel Festival

• 📅 Date(s): 9/20– 9/29/2025
• 📝 What to expect: A traditional Cozumel holiday honoring the island’s patron saint, Michael, with community processions, church events, and heartfelt celebrations throughout the week, ending with a final early morning procession. It’s one of the most important religious festivals in Cozumel.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Perfect for cultural travelers, photographers, and anyone looking for authentic local experiences in Cozumel.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: The events on the 29^th start at 5:30 AM with canons being fired and a procession ending at the ferry pier on Melgar. Heading out at 5:00 AM to witness the events is not unheard of. If you’d like to continue sleeping, earplugs are a must. Trust me, you’ll need them.

September Equinox: Balance, Culture and Nature

• 📅 Date(s): 9/20/2025
• 📝 What to expect: At Chichén Itzá’s main temple (one of the new 7 Wonders of the World, located on the mainland) is where locals and visitors gather during the September equinox to watch sunlight create the illusion of the serpent god Kukulkán slithering down the pyramid’s steps. According to Maya tradition, this stunning sight is believed to bring a bountiful harvest.
• 👥 Who it’s for: It’s for anyone curious about Maya culture and ancient astronomy.

🧭 Witness the magic of the September equinox at ⟶ Chichen Itza an unforgettable day trip from Cozumel.

October in Cozumel: Cultural Celebrations, Halloween and Island Events

As fall begins, Cozumel’s October events include local traditions, pre-Day of the Dead altars, and Halloween fun. Check the festival schedule here!

Halloween in Cozumel: Local Traditions and Cozumel Celebrations

• 📅 Date(s): 10/31/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Locals and visitors alike get into the spirit with costumes and events at spots like Aquí y Ahora, Dick’s Dive and Benito Juarez Park, where the clock tower is located, to meet up and show off. Even pets get into the spirit by getting dressed up.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Families, partygoers, and pet lovers who want a festive night with a community feel.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: If you plan on celebrating Halloween, note that it overlaps with Day of the Dead festivities here in Cozumel. The procession starts on Halloween night around 7:00 PM at the cemetery, then proceeds along Calle 5 Sur to Benito Juarez Park.

Things to do in November in Cozumel

November brings high season and deeply rooted Mexican traditions like Día de los Muertos and Cozumel’s Revolution Day parades. Find out what’s happening in Cozumel this month.

Cozumel Day of the Dead: Celebrate Día de los Muertos with Local Altars and Culture

• 📅 Date(s): 11/1 – 11/2/2025, Procession on 10/31/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Day of the dead is aka Dia de los Muertos. Altars filled with marigolds, candles, and food, line homes and shops as the island honors loved ones. It’s one of the most meaningful traditional Cozumel holidays that include a procession from the cemetery ending in Benito Juarez Park, followed by a spectacular live production.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Anyone interested in Mexican culture, history, and sacred traditions.  Many people (even visitors) opt to have their face painted and walk respectfully in the procession.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: To get into the spirit of the season every year on Halloween, we have a tradition of watching the movie “Coco” which is a lighthearted movie that beautifully tells the story of Dia de Los Muertos.

GFNY Cozumel: International Cycling Event in Paradise

• 📅 Date(s): 11/16/2025
• 📝 What to expect: This Cozumel annual event is an international cycling race that attracts hundreds of riders for a high-energy course around the island, with many full road closures, especially on Melgar, along the waterfront.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Cyclists, endurance athletes, and those who love watching from the sidelines.

Torneo Wahoo Gold Fishing Tournament 2025: (Pending Official Announcement)

• 📅 Date(s): 3rd weekend of November
• 📝 What to expect: A catch and release competitive fishing tournament.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Fishing enthusiasts, fans of sport fishing.
• More info:  Check back here for official updates and details for the event.

Revolution Day Memorial: Cozumel Celebrates Mexican History

• 📅 Date(s): 11/20/2025 but Celebrated the 3^rd Monday of the month,11/17/2025
• 📝 What to expect: A patriotic event with school and civic ceremonies, a parade and dancers in traditional dress. It’s part of the Cozumel holiday schedule that honors Mexican history.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Visitors looking to connect with Cozumel cultural events and island heritage.

Ironman Cozumel: Major Sporting Event on the Island

• 📅 Date(s): 11/23/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Athletes take on this full-distance triathlon. One of the most intense Cozumel events 2025.  Expect road closures in some of the main areas.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Athletes, volunteers, and enthusiastic spectators. Bring a cowbell!

🏨Wake up to ocean views and easy town access ⟶ stay at Playa Azul or Westin Cozumel to avoid most of the triathlon closures.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Hotels book up quickly during this time of year.  If you are visiting Cozumel this week, book as early in advance as possible, even if you are not attending the competition yourself.

Thanksgiving in Cozumel: Celebrate American Traditions Island-Style

• 📅 Date(s): 11/27/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Many local restaurants like Guido’s, La Cocay, The Pub, and K’ooben Laab offer turkey and trimmings.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Tourists in Cozumel from the U.S. who don’t want to miss their favorite holiday flavors while vacationing in paradise.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Check the Facebook group Cozumel Connection for updates on who will be serving Thanksgiving dinner and if a special menu will be available, closer to the date.

Things to do in December in Cozumel

December on the Cozumel holiday schedule is full of joy! From the Christmas tree lighting to New Year’s Eve, discover Cozumel’s annual events and holiday spirit.

Presidential Election in Mexico: What Visitors Should Know in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s): 12/1/2024  next election is on 12/1/2030 (Once every 6 years)
• 📝 What to expect: On election day here in Mexico, there’s something called “ley seca,” or the dry law. That means no alcohol sales in most places. It’s implemented to basically to make sure everyone votes with a clear head. Don’t worry though, you can usually still get a drink at resort bars, beach clubs, or your hotel. Just know that most local restaurants, cantinas, and shops won’t be selling booze that day.

Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe: A Reverent Cozumel Cultural Event

• 📅 Date(s): 12/12/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Feel free to join the locals, soak up the processions, enjoy the music and food, and take in the colorful traditions. The best spots to watch are procession along Melgar or right at the Guadalupe Church in the late afternoon and evening.
• 👥 Who it’s for: It’s a deeply meaningful religious day for the locals and respect should be observed but participation by tourists and visitors to the island is welcomed.

Christmas Tree Lighting: Kicking Off December Events in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s): Early December (TBD) in the late afternoon
• 📝 What to expect:  Kick off the Christmas holiday season with the lighting of the Christmas tree, which takes place in Andres Quintana Roo Park. It’s one of the most anticipated things to do in Cozumel during the holidays.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Visitors and locals, families, and anyone who wants to participate in a one of the most festive Cozumel holiday traditions.

Las Posadas / La Rama: Cozumel’s Pre-Christmas Cultural Events

• 📅 Date(s): 12/16 – 12/24/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Neighborhoods come alive with candlelight processions re-enacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, a beautiful, 9-night traditional Cozumel holiday celebration.  It overlaps with La Rama, which is a coastal tradition where children carry decorated branches door to door singing carols in exchange for treats during the Christmas season.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Cultural travelers and families who enjoy meaningful community events.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: If you are staying in town and the children come around to your location to sing, make sure to have a few pesos on hand as it’s customary to give a small donation or treat. 

Christmas Eve: Local Traditions and Family Celebrations in Cozumel

• 📅 Date(s): 12/24/2025
• 📝 What to expect: It’s the biggest night for Christmas celebrations where locals gather with family and many businesses close early.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Travelers looking to enjoy a festive meal out should plan early and be respectful of family time.

Christmas Day in Cozumel: Island Style Festivities and Holiday Joy

• 📅 Date(s): 12/25/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Many restaurants are open with special menus. Top spots like Guido’s, Lobster House, Pancho’s Backyard as well as El Volado are usually open and offer a special Christmas menu. They tend to book up fast, so start checking back here to see updates.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Vacationers in Cozumel who want to enjoy a festive meal and a tropical Christmas without missing the holiday spirit.

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Fair warning: keep an eye on our Facebook Group, Cozumel Connection, after the 10^th of December, to see what restaurants will be open and have a special holiday menu, so you can book your reservation. Spots at the best dinner tables are usually gone by mid-December.

New Year’s Eve in Cozumel: Ring in the New Year Island Style

• 📅 Date(s): 12/31/2025
• 📝 What to expect: Ring in the new year with beachfront dinners and late-night celebrations all around town. It’s an unforgettable way to wrap up your year in paradise.
• 👥 Who it’s for: Everyone who’s ready to toast to a new year with Caribbean vibes and festive fun!

📍Lisa’s Local Tip: Venture downtown along the waterfront and grab a front-row seat to watch fireworks from some of the larger resorts across the bay in Playa del Carmen, and ring in the new year.

Final Thoughts and Event Calendar

Cozumel is buzzing with festivals, traditions, and cultural moments that make every visit unique. Plan your trip around the best dates that matter to you and you’ll never miss an event.

📥 Get the ⟶ Cozumel Holiday, Event, and Festival Schedule 2025 here , a free and printable that includes:

• Over 70 Holidays, Events, & Festivals
• Holiday and Bank Closures

👉 Plan like a pro ⟶ get our month-by-month Cozumel Weather by Month Guide for the real scoop on hurricane season and sunny days.

💌 Join the Cozumel Connection newsletter for monthly updates.

📱 Cozumel Connection Facebook Group

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)