7 essential things to do during Christmas in Cancún

Christmas in Cancún is the ultimate holiday getaway for white sand beaches and a traditional festive atmosphere. Christmas is a month-long celebration in Cancún, starting with Los Posadas where amusement parks like Xcaret get in the spirit by hosting enchanting Christmas-themed events. Cancún's incredible artisan markets are great destinations for unique holiday gifts. The weather is perfect for adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, like zip lining and ATV riding. Have yourself a Merry Christmas in the Mexican Riviera with these essential activities.

Everything you need to know about Christmas in Cancún

Best holiday market: Mercado 28

Average temperature: Low of 69 F (20 C) and high of 82 F (28 C)

Key holiday days: Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe on December 12; Christmas Eve on December 24; Christmas Day on December 25

Best free festive activity: Villa Navideña at Tajamar Boardwalk

1. Experience local Christmas processions and parades in Cancún

Christmas festivities in Cancún begin in early December with exciting parades and processions. The Cancún Christmas Parade is held in the city's downtown district featuring costumed characters and local participants performing on jovial floats. December 16 kicks off Los Posadas, when several costumed and musical processions are held in various Cancún neighborhoods and at public venues. Local amusement parks like Xcaret Park commemorate the Holy Family's journey to Bethlehem.

Insider tip

Avoid the Boulevard Kukulcán and watch the Cancún Christmas Parade from Avenida Tulum to avoid crowds.

2. Enjoy the tropical climate with an outdoor jungle adventure

The absolute best thing about Christmas in Cancún is a gorgeous tropical climate for experiencing nature and adventure. Zip line adventures are an exhilarating Cancún activity that allows you to fly high above the Mayan jungle on a zip line. December is ideal for these activities. While the weather is still warm, the air is slightly cooler this time of year. This makes hanging out in the humid jungle more comfortable.

Insider tip

Ask your zip line guides if you're allowed to do the "flying" or "Superman" position for a bird's eye view through the jungle.

3. Indulge in Mexico's delicious holiday food and drinks

Cancún at Christmas time is one of the best times of year for food and drink when local holiday foods like warm Ponche Con Piquete—or Mexican Christmas Fruit Punch—are served in abundance. Eating mouthwatering tamales filled with ingredients like pineapple and pork is a huge Christmas tradition in Cancún. A food tour is the best way to experience these delicacies and some of the best food in Cancún.

Insider tip

Avoid tourist spots and visit a cantina, street vendor, or local market like Mercado 28 for authentic dishes with recipes passed down through generations.

Address and opening hours

Mercado 28, Xel-ha Mz 13, 77509 Cancún, Q.R. Open 9:00 AM-7:00 PM. Some stores might be closed on Sunday.

4. Shop for Christmas presents at Mercado 28

Cancún has plenty of opportunities for buying unique Christmas gifts thanks to its exquisite artisan markets and bazaars. Mercado 28 is a popular large local flea market where you'll find everything from beautifully handmade dolls and toys to brightly colored clothing, handbags, home decor, tequila, religious decor, and souvenirs. Since December marks the start of the holiday and peak tourist seasons, vendors have their best items for sale this time of year. It's easy to find something for everyone on your Christmas list.

Insider tip

Be prepared for aggressive haggling, and bring pesos to get the most value.

Address and opening hours

Mercado 28, Xel-ha Mz 13, 77509 Cancún, Q.R. Open 9:00 AM-7:00 PM. Some stores might be closed on Sunday.

5. Make your spirit bright at Tajamar Boardwalk's Villa Navideña

Villa Navideña (Christmas Village) at Tajamar Boardwalk is one of Cancún's major family-friendly activities attracting 250,000 annually. Lit like the North Pole, the boardwalk is sectioned into festive pavilions—including the Magic of Christmas and Gastronomy pavilions—where local and tourist families mingle. Behold impressive holiday performances and glide across the faux ice rink. You'll find a sea of artisans selling authentic handicrafts as children play games and partake in free festive activities.

Insider tip

Festival details change annually, so confirm with your hotel or check with the city.

Address and opening hours

Villa Navideña, Avenida Nichupté & 510, Av Industrial, 77534 Cancún, Q.R. Open in December from 5:00 PM-10:00 PM

6. Head to Punta Cancún for merrymaking at Coco Bongo

Christmas is a time to be merry and there's no better place for merrymaking than the "Party Zone." Punta Cancún houses exceptional nightlife and bars, including mega-clubs like Coco Bongo Show & Disco. Coco Bongo also hosts festive Christmas shows in late December. At its Grinchmas event, you'll get to party with the green grump himself and dance the night away.

Insider tip

Pre-game during happy hour at a rooftop or beach bar where you'll get excellent drinks at fair prices and panoramic views of the sun setting on the lagoon Caribbean Sea.

Address and opening hours

Coco Bongo, Blvd. Kukulcan 30, Punta Cancún, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún. Open 9:00 PM-3:00 AM

7. Partake in jolly activities at hotels and resorts

Spend the day exploring the city on a sightseeing walking tour and head back to the hotel. Cancún resorts and hotels go all out for Christmas with jolly activities. Children and adults alike get to partake in tree lightings, hot cocoa and churro tastings, Santacon parties, and holiday performances at venues like Hilton Cancún. Some establishments also invite Santa to visit so you won't miss out on telling him what you want for Christmas.

Insider tip

Make a plan ahead of time to ensure you'll get seats at your preferred activities. Ask your hotel about exclusive events, kids clubs, and special access to events.

Christmas in Cancún: FAQs

Is Cancún a good place to spend Christmas?

Absolutely! There are all sorts of festive things to do in Cancún during the holidays. You also get the added bonus of amazing weather and excellent beaches.

Is Cancún hot at Christmas?

Christmas in Cancún is warm but not scorching during December with temperatures between 69 F and 86 F.

Is Cancún swimmable in December?

Yes! The sea will be pleasant at an average of 70 F (20 C) and 82 F (25 C).

Is everything open at Christmas in Cancún?

Tourist resorts and restaurants will be open during regular business hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. So, you'll find lots of things to do in Cancún during the holidays. In observance of the holiday, some smaller local businesses may be closed on Christmas Eve night and Christmas Day with some reopening later that evening.

How is Christmas celebrated in Cancún?

Christmas is celebrated throughout the entire month of December with lots of festively fun things to do. The town is decorated with lights and hosts many Christmas parades and events. Many also attend special masses. Mexicans will host large dinner parties on Christmas Eve followed by a smaller celebration on Christmas Day.