Quintana Roo Cancels Classes for Carnival 2026 Celebrations

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Schools across Quintana Roo will close for two days in February 2026 to allow students and families to participate in Carnival celebrations, state education officials announced.

The Quintana Roo Education Department (SEQ) authorized the suspension of classes on Monday, February 16, and Tuesday, February 17, 2026, citing local “customs and traditions.” The measure aims to preserve cultural identity and encourage community participation in festivities across the state’s eleven municipalities.

More than 350,000 preschool, elementary, and middle school students will benefit from the official break. The adjustment applies to both public schools and private institutions incorporated with the SEQ.

Although the federal education calendar does not designate these dates as national holidays, Quintana Roo makes an annual adjustment to grant them official status, recognizing the historical and touristic importance of Carnival in southeastern Mexico.

Cancún, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen are preparing major celebrations. Cancún’s cultural lineup has generated significant anticipation, with performances by artists including María José and Banda MS. Events will also feature family-oriented activities like costume competitions in Cozumel and Playa del Carmen.

Education authorities stated that classes will resume normally on Wednesday, February 18, and urged parents to plan accordingly to ensure a timely return. School administrators have been notified to coordinate necessary administrative duties during the closure.