Playa del Carmen to Host Second Annual Playa Grill Fest 2026

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — The city government invites residents and tourists to the second edition of the Playa Grill Fest 2026, a barbecue festival celebrating the flavors of the Mexican Caribbean. The event will take place June 16-17 at Parque Fundadores from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The festival aims to boost the local economy, showcase regional culinary talent, and create family-friendly spaces by bringing together chefs, grill masters, producers, artisans, and entrepreneurs from Playa del Carmen.

Estefanía Hernández Flores, Secretary of Economic Development and Investment Attraction, said the event is part of Mayor Estefanía Mercado’s strategy to strengthen economic activity, promote local consumption, and position Playa del Carmen as a top gastronomic destination in the Mexican Caribbean.

Over the two days, attendees can enjoy cooking demonstrations, smokehouse cuisine, tastings, live music, a children’s area, and a food corridor featuring local producers and artisans.

Highlights include the live preparation of a whole grilled cow, suckling pigs, and various cuts prepared by regional chefs and specialists, along with 14 invited grill masters.

The festival will prioritize the use of local products from municipal producers, strengthening value chains and creating more opportunities for the agri-food sector.

The event maintains a family-friendly and socially responsible focus, with 10% of proceeds going to community gardens and food security projects.