Tulum Prepares for the Annual Cancha Maya Festival

Tulum, Quintana Roo — From October 6 to 16, Tulum will come alive with the Fiesta Tradicional de la Cancha Maya, one of the region’s oldest and most meaningful community celebrations. Centered in the Cancha Maya plaza and around the historic Mayan Church, the festival blends ritual, culture, and social life in a way that has defined Tulum’s identity for nearly a century.

The Cancha Maya Festival is held twice a year, in March and October, and traces its roots back to the early 20th century. It was created as a way for founding families to gather, honor ancestors, and strengthen bonds among neighbors. Today it continues to serve as a cultural anchor for Tulum, uniting locals while welcoming outsiders to witness traditions rarely seen outside the community.

Festival-goers can expect traditional Mayan dances, parades, and live music, as well as an artisan fair where crafts, textiles, and handmade goods are sold. Local cuisine takes center stage, from street food stands to family-prepared dishes. A highlight of the celebration is the matan, a ritual meal prepared by families and shared freely with others as a gesture of community and gratitude.

Evenings are festive, with concerts and cultural performances spilling into the streets surrounding the plaza. The event is also a showcase for younger generations, who are introduced to customs and practices that preserve Tulum’s identity in the face of rapid change.

Municipal President Diego Castañón Trejo reaffirmed the city’s commitment to supporting the festival, noting: “To know where we are going, we must first know where we come from.” Ahead of this year’s edition, the city has carried out maintenance on the ceremonial court, trimmed trees, and prepared the grounds to ensure a dignified and welcoming space.

For visitors, the Cancha Maya Festival offers an authentic look at local life—very different from Tulum’s resorts and nightlife. While open to outsiders, the event is first and foremost a community tradition. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful, especially around the Mayan Church where photography may be restricted.

Whether you come for the food, music, or cultural immersion, the Cancha Maya Festival remains one of the most genuine windows into Tulum’s history and living heritage.