Playa del Carmen, Mexico — The municipal government has unveiled the official lineup for the 2026 Playa del Carmen Carnival, which will run from February 11 to 17 with free concerts featuring over 146 artists.
Mayor Estefanía Mercado’s administration presented the program on Tuesday, confirming performances by Bellakath on February 14, Santa Fe Klan on February 15, NSQK on February 16, and the 90’s Pop Tour featuring OV7, Kalimba, Magneto and Kabah on February 17. All concerts will take place at Plaza 28 de Julio.
Eduardo Asencio, honorary president of the DIF Playa del Carmen, represented Mayor Mercado and emphasized that the celebration aims to be a community-focused, inclusive event that promotes local talent. The program includes 124 musicians from Playa del Carmen.
Parades and Competitions
The carnival will feature parade floats on February 13 and 16, with a special parade scheduled for February 17 in Puerto Aventuras. The event will also include queen and king competitions in multiple categories: children’s, youth, sovereign, LGBTQ+, and the new “Let’s Playa” category.
The official coronation will take place on February 11, marking the formal start of celebrations. The traditional Ladies’ Show dance will occur on February 12, organized by the municipal DIF with proceeds going to social causes.
Local Talent and Infrastructure
Local urban artists including Nat RM, Primo JMC, Escuela Cruda, Chris Nova, Jason D and Jason RXP will perform, providing platforms for Playa del Carmen creators.
Authorities announced they will install service modules from DIF, Civil Protection and Public Security departments, along with special cleaning and lighting operations to ensure safety throughout the events.
Tourism Secretary Estefanía Hernández described the carnival as “a celebration for the people” that aims to strengthen cultural identity, promote local talent, and establish Playa del Carmen Carnival as the best in Quintana Roo’s history.
Municipal Public Services Secretary Julieta Martín announced special cleaning, lighting and recycling operations at Plaza 28 de Julio and along parade routes, with permanent crews, recycling containers, emergency lighting plants and water trucks to ensure an orderly, sustainable event.
Ernesto Martínez, director of the Institute of Culture and Arts, noted that the carnival serves as a cultural expression that strengthens community identity and coexistence while boosting tourism activity.
The municipal government invited both local residents and national and international visitors to enjoy the carnival, while requesting that attendees avoid bringing containers or bottles to the free concerts.
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