Mérida, Yucatán — The city began to pulse to the rhythm of the Mérida Fest “Celebramos contigo,” which in its first week filled theaters, parks, and avenues with music, laughter, and family gatherings. From closed venues with sold-out seats to public spaces transformed into improvised stages, the public response confirmed that the celebration of Mérida’s 484th anniversary is lived in community.
Musical tributes moved the audience, such as Cristian Estrella’s concert dedicated to José José, while in neighborhoods across the city, local humor brought together entire families. At the closing event on Paseo de Montejo, youthful energy was present with the Afro-Colombian rhythms of Baterimba, which got attendees dancing and concluded its performance with an emotional call: “Do not let your festival die.”
The dialogue between traditions and new musical expressions marked the evening with the Orquesta Cubateca: Jazz del Mayab y del Caribe, which premiered special arrangements for the festival, accompanied by renowned drummer Horacio “El Negro” Hernández. This was complemented by jaranas, choirs, and rondallas that traveled through different sonic latitudes, culminating with the Municipal Children’s and Youth Orchestra, which won over the public with a repertoire ranging from Disney and Marvel to classic video games, demonstrating that culture is both inherited and reinvented.
With free access and a diverse lineup, the Mérida Fest continues to celebrate the city from its roots to the new generations.
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