Cozumel to Host Fifth Annual Ceviche Festival During 2026 Carnival

Cozumel, Mexico — Cozumel will host the fifth edition of its Ceviche Festival on February 16, 2026, as part of the island’s Carnival celebrations. The event will feature at least 10 local restaurants and the Cozumel Fishing Cooperative presenting their best versions of the iconic dish in a family-friendly atmosphere with live music from three local bands.

Municipal Tourism Director Elías Farah Ceh said the festival, now in its fifth consecutive year, aims to become an officially recognized annual tradition by the Cozumel city council. Organizers want to maintain it as a permanent part of Carnival activities to strengthen the island’s cultural and tourist identity.

“We want the Ceviche Festival to become a gastronomic reference within Cozumel’s tourist offerings,” Farah Ceh said. “The idea is that, in addition to enjoying Carnival, visitors have the opportunity to learn about and taste one of the most representative dishes of our local cuisine.”

The 2026 edition comes during a high-expectation tourist season, with hotel occupancy expected to reach 94 percent during Carnival and festival dates. This reflects the appeal both events generate among national and international visitors.

The festival not only promotes local gastronomy but also strengthens participation from island restaurateurs and fishermen, who offer different versions of the dish ranging from classic recipes to innovative proposals incorporating fresh regional ingredients.

Organizers hope the event will become an annual gastronomic reference capable of attracting visitors seeking authentic experiences who value the fusion of tradition, flavor, and festive atmosphere that characterizes Cozumel.