Mérida’s Carnival Moved from Historic Streets to Fairgrounds 14 Years Ago

Mérida, Mexico — Fourteen years after Mérida’s Carnival left its historic home on Paseo de Montejo, residents still remember the vibrant street celebrations that once defined the city’s biggest festival. For decades, the annual Carnival transformed Mérida’s most emblematic avenues into stages of music, color, and tradition before moving to the Xmatkuil fairgrounds in 2013.

The change marked a significant shift in how Mérida celebrates Carnival, moving the festivities from the city’s heart to a purpose-built venue known as Plaza Carnaval. While authorities cited logistical and security reasons for the relocation, many citizens expressed disappointment at losing a tradition deeply rooted in the urban and cultural life of Yucatán’s capital.

The Historic Route

For years, the Carnival parade followed a cherished route that became essential to the experience. The procession began at the Monumento a la Patria, advanced along the entire Paseo de Montejo to Santa Ana, then headed to the Plaza Grande before concluding in the San Juan neighborhood.

The two-and-a-half-hour journey attracted complete families who gathered early to watch comparsas, floats, and invited artists pass by. The proximity to the public and historic surroundings gave Mérida’s Carnival a unique character, making it one of Mexico’s most prominent celebrations.

Farewell to Tradition

The 2013 Carnival was the last to take place on Paseo de Montejo, with the Mérida City Council deciding to permanently move the event to Xmatkuil. The 2011 edition remains particularly memorable for many residents, considered one of the best in recent history with national and international guests and massive attendance that positioned Mérida as a Carnival reference point in Mexico.

Today, while the celebration continues at Xmatkuil with new dynamics and greater infrastructure, memories of those parades through historic avenues still evoke strong emotions. The transition confirms that Mérida’s Carnival is not just a festival but a living part of the city’s identity.