Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo – August 27, 2025 – The Mexican Caribbean is getting ready for a culinary celebration that blends tradition, creativity, and regional pride. On September 6 and 7, 2025, Parque Fundadores in Playa del Carmen will host the inaugural Festival del Jocho Chetumaleño, shining a spotlight on a quirky yet beloved dish from southern Quintana Roo.
A Culinary Tradition With Identity
Far from being just another food fair, the Jocho Chetumaleño Festival is designed to honor the creativity that defines Chetumal’s gastronomy and elevate the “jocho” as a cultural symbol. In Chetumal, this humble snack has earned a special place in everyday life, and now both professional chefs and passionate home cooks are being invited to showcase their own version of the dish.
Big Prizes, Big Recognition
One of the main draws of the festival is its generous prize pool: 150,000 pesos in cash awards. The competition will be judged by a panel of respected chefs and cultural figures, who will evaluate each entry for flavor, originality, presentation, and the ability to convey Chetumal’s identity through food. Beyond celebrating culinary talent, organizers hope the contest will encourage entrepreneurship and strengthen the local food scene.
Playa del Carmen as the Stage
Choosing Playa del Carmen as the host city is no accident. As one of the most visited destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, the city offers a platform to share this cultural and culinary tradition with a wider audience. With its iconic Portal Maya and oceanfront setting, Parque Fundadores provides the perfect backdrop for two days of food, music, and celebration.
More Than Food: A Cultural Experience
The festival aims to be a family-friendly event that blends flavors with culture. Alongside the cooking competition, visitors can expect:
- Live music and artistic performances
- Stalls featuring local products and crafts
- Activities that highlight Chetumal’s culture in a festive atmosphere
By combining gastronomy, culture, and tourism, the festival hopes to strengthen southern Quintana Roo’s identity while giving Playa del Carmen a fresh attraction for both residents and travelers.
How to Take Part
Registration is open online, making it easy for locals and visitors alike to join the competition. Whether you’re a seasoned chef, a culinary student, or simply a food lover eager to put your spin on a regional favorite, the Festival del Jocho Chetumaleño offers a unique chance to showcase your skills.
Registration for participants is conducted through the link bit.ly/4oShtKv. The organizing committee stressed that the festival is designed as a family-friendly space for community and the promotion of local culture, framed within the strategy of shared prosperity promoted by the municipality.
A Celebration of Pride and Flavor
At its heart, the festival is about more than just food. It’s a celebration of identity, community, and the creativity that flavors everyday life in Quintana Roo. If you’re in the Riviera Maya this September, don’t miss the chance to experience the first edition of what promises to become a signature event in the region.
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