Playa del Carmen’s PAFF 2025: Art & Fashion Fusion

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — The Playa Art & Fashion Fest (PAFF) 2025 has launched with resounding success in Playa del Carmen, solidifying the city’s reputation as a global hub for cultural and creative tourism. Organized with the support of the municipal government, led by Mayor Estefanía Mercado, the festival marks a pivotal moment in the city’s cultural and economic evolution.

A Platform for Cultural and Economic Growth

With an estimated beneficiary population of 333,800 residents, Playa del Carmen boasts over 46,000 hotel rooms and welcomes more than 6 million visitors annually. The festival aims to diversify the city’s tourism offerings while promoting local talent and creative industries.

“Tourism is the backbone of our economy, but we must evolve as a mature destination,” said Estefanía Hernández, Municipal Tourism Secretary. “Events like PAFF 2025 allow us to renew our identity, diversify tourist experiences, and boost the creative economy.”

Fashion as Cultural Expression

A highlight of the festival was the fashion runway, which showcased the work of emerging and established designers. Each collection reflected the vibrant cultural identity of Playa del Carmen, blending local heritage with contemporary creativity.

The event not only strengthens the city’s cultural identity but also drives economic growth, attracts investment, and positions Playa del Carmen as an innovative and sophisticated destination. The Mercado administration views art, fashion, and culture as catalysts for social transformation.

“Creativity is also a form of social justice—it democratizes opportunities, recognizes talent, and highlights our roots,” the administration stated.

National and International Participation

PAFF 2025 aligns with Mexico’s national strategy to promote the creative economy, showcasing the country’s diversity on a global stage. The festival features over 30 models from Argentina, Colombia, Spain, Costa Rica, Bolivia, and Guatemala, alongside designers and artists representing sustainable fashion and indigenous communities.

Featured Collections:

• Pineda Covalin: Summer collection "Destellos"
• Consuelo by Ericka del Rayo (in collaboration with Zevach Accesorios): "Esencia Mexicana"
• Persuid by Reynaldo Gaona Piamante
• Playa del Bikini by Viviana Arcos
• Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada
• Carmen Belissa: Collection "REGINA! La Reina del Cielo"

Collaborative Success

Hernández emphasized that the festival’s success stems from collaboration between the public sector, artists, businesses, and the community. “Playa del Carmen doesn’t just receive tourists—it inspires, connects, and transforms,” she said.

Sponsors:

BYD Playa del Carmen, Led Event Technology, GOmart, Antromex, Royal Hideaway Playacar, St. Regis, Edition at Kanai, Perfecto Harto, Real State, Martina, Coco Bongo, Sotheby’s International Agency, and Winjet, among others.

The PAFF 2025 festival underscores Playa del Carmen’s commitment to cultural innovation and economic diversification, reinforcing its status as a leading global destination.