Cancun’s Yaxchilan Avenue Transforms for Guelaguetza Festival

Cancun, Quintana Roo — Yaxchilan Avenue is undergoing a transformation to host the Guelaguetza Cancun 2026, a three-day festival from July 24 to 26 that will bring Oaxacan music, dance, cuisine, and traditions to the city center. Organizers expect more than 30,000 attendees.

Carlos del Castillo, director of the Administrative Management Unit for the Cancun District Project, said Wednesday that work has begun on setting up the fair, installing decorations, adapting the space, and carrying out rehabilitation work in the area where activities will take place.

These preparations aim to welcome Cancun families and visitors in better conditions, while also preparing the space for artisans, merchants, restaurants, and exhibitors participating in the celebration, Del Castillo said.

The Guelaguetza kicks off Thursday, July 23, with the gala “Fiesta en la Costa de Oaxaca” at the City Theater, featuring more than 70 child artists from Tlaxiaco, Oaxaca.

From Friday, July 24, through Sunday, July 26, the festivities will move to Yaxchilan Avenue and the Parque de las Palapas with the traditional Calenda parade, starting at 6:00 p.m. from Pino Street and winding through downtown streets with over 100 artists accompanied by music and traditional dances.

Throughout the three days, a Oaxacan pavilion will feature cooks, artisans, and producers offering traditional dishes such as tlayudas, mole, and chapulines, along with representative Oaxacan crafts.

Del Castillo emphasized that beyond promoting culture, the event aims to generate economic revenue for local businesses and reclaim public spaces for family gatherings.

He asked nearby residents and business owners for understanding regarding temporary closures and recommended using alternate routes during the activities.