Bacalar’s First Barbecue Festival Succeeds with Local Flavors

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — The First Caribbean Mexican Barbecue Festival in Bacalar concluded with attendance exceeding expectations, establishing itself as a major tourist and gastronomic attraction. Hundreds of local, regional, international, and Belizean visitors enjoyed a wide range of meat and seafood dishes in a festive atmosphere by the lagoon.

The event, held at Paraíso Bacalar Blu Beach Club, brought together Canirac, Coparmex, the Association of Hotels of the Center and South, and the Bacalar City Council. It was inaugurated by Mayor José Alfredo Contreras “Chepe,” who toured the stands of participating chefs and artisans.

Local restaurants offered everything from cod tacos and smoked pork belly to Angus cuts, octopus, and shrimp. Business leaders highlighted that the festival’s success reaffirms Bacalar as an emerging gastronomic destination and announced that work is already underway on a schedule of new events to boost tourism.

Additionally, the festival promoted destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, supported local producers through the use of charcoal and firewood from Bacalar, and featured a barbecue course by the Parrilleros Playeros collective. The closing event was the roasting of a steer from the Cattlemen’s Association.

Coordinated by Chef Beza and Chef Antonio Moctezuma, the festival ran from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with music, gastronomy, and social interaction, making it clear that Bacalar is also a place to savor.