Carnival—or, locally, Carnaval—is one of the most vibrant celebrations in the world—a party where music, dance, floats, and costumes come together in parades full of energy and joy. It is a cultural experience that invites locals and visitors alike to take to the streets, celebrate together, and let themselves be carried away by the festive spirit.
In Mérida, Carnival takes on a very special identity. For several days, the city transforms into a massive stage where the traditions of Yucatán blend with the spectacle, color, and hospitality that characterize this region of México, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who visits.
I have always been a Carnaval de Mérida enthusiast. I got to experience it back when the parade route (derrotero) ran along Paseo de Montejo, and now with the famous—and somewhat controversial—move to Xmatkuil. But we aren’t here to dive into polemics; we are here to help you enjoy it to the fullest.
The following is a practical guide with useful data, tips, and advice so you can experience one of the most joyful, colorful, and noisy parties of the year… stress-free and full of revelry.
Dates and theme for the Mérida Carnival 2026
Mark your calendars: in 2026, the Mérida Carnival will be celebrated from February 11 to 18, under the theme “Circo Carnaval” (Circus Carnival). We can expect parades full of color, extravagant characters, and a festive atmosphere from start to finish.
Mérida Carnival 2026 at a glance
- Wednesday, February 11: Quema del Mal Humor (Burning of the Bad Mood – the official start of the Mérida Carnival).
- Thursday, February 12: Children’s Parade (Mérida’s Historic Center).
- February 13 to 17: Parades and shows at Ciudad Carnaval (Xmatkuil).
Carnival events in Mérida’s Historic Center
Before moving to Ciudad Carnaval at the Xmatkuil fairgrounds, there will also be events held within the city. One is the traditional Quema del Mal Humor, which marks the official start of the festivities. This usually takes place between the Tuesday and Wednesday of the week preceding the first parade (tentatively Tuesday, Feb 10 or Wednesday, Feb 11). There is also the Children’s Parade, which still marches through the Historic Center and usually takes place on Thursday afternoon (February 12, in this case).
Ciudad Carnaval: What you need to know
Starting Friday, February 13, the parades move to Ciudad Carnaval, located at the Xmatkuil fairgrounds, approximately 40 minutes south of Mérida.
One major plus for this venue is that, unlike what happens during the Yucatán Xmatkuil State Fair in November, access to both the grounds and the parking is completely free. Additionally, specialized safe areas are maintained, such as the zone for people with disabilities and the “Zona Rosa” (Pink Zone) for women.
The parade route circles the entire venue, so once you enter, you will need to walk toward one of the side or rear exits to find the bleachers or areas from which you will enjoy the parade.
Carnaval de Mérida Parades: days and times
The Mérida Carnival is celebrated over five consecutive days, with parades featuring different times and themes:
- Friday, February 13 – Desfile de Corso (Corso Parade) – 8 pm
- Saturday, February 14 – Desfile de Fantasía (Fantasy Parade) – 8 pm
- Sunday, February 15 – Domingo de Bachata (Bachata Sunday) – 1 pm
- Monday, February 16 – Desfile Regional (Regional Parade) – 8 pm
- Tuesday, February 17 – Batalla de las Flores (Battle of the Flowers) – 1 pm
What are the different Mérida Carnival parades like?
The Desfile de Corso officially kicks off the Carnival and is a true explosion of color and energy. Along the route, you’ll see floats fully decorated according to the year's theme, comparsas (dance troupes) with rhythmic choreography, and dancers wearing eye-catching costumes full of glitter, feathers, and carefully designed details. The music never stops, the air is filled with applause and smiles, and sponsors take the opportunity to throw gifts to the crowd, making the experience even more fun and participatory. This same festive spirit is repeated during the Fantasy Parade and Bachata Sunday, turning each route into a continuous celebration.
On the other hand, Monday's Regional Parade is a true cultural display. The dance troupes leave behind the typical Carnaval costumes to wear Yucatecan traditional garments: ternos for women and guayaberas with alpargatas (sandals) for men, parading to the rhythm of jarana. If you are visiting Yucatán during these dates, this parade is an absolute must. Furthermore, once it ends, an authentic vaquería (traditional dance festival) is held on the main esplanade of Ciudad Carnaval.
Tuesday brings the famous Batalla de las Flores (Battle of the Flowers). In addition to all the vibes of the previous days, the floats throw flowers to the public as a gesture of thanks, closing the Carnival with a festive atmosphere full of emotion.
The Mérida Carnival, with children
If you plan on attending Carnaval with little ones, keep in mind that distances within Ciudad Carnaval are long. While there are bleachers along the parade route where you can sit and enjoy the show, it is very likely that once it’s over, the kids will want to keep exploring the grounds. Therefore, it is best to come prepared to walk a bit more than expected.
The Mérida Carnival is designed as a family-friendly event, and during the day, the atmosphere is usually very calm and welcoming for all ages. However, remember that alcohol is sold within Ciudad Carnaval; so, if you are going with children, a good recommendation is to attend the daytime parades or avoid staying until very late at night, when the vibe can shift slightly.
Finally, do not forget that this is a massive event. Always keep your little ones in sight and, as a preventive measure, explain to them that if they were to get lost, they should immediately go to one of the organizer booths or approach any of the police officers stationed both along the parade route and throughout Ciudad Carnaval.
How to get to Ciudad Carnaval
If you are going by car, the journey is approximately 40 minutes from Mérida, taking Calle 50 and crossing the periférico (ring road).
Don’t have a car? No problem. During Carnival, free public transportation routes depart from strategic points throughout the city, including Mérida’s Centro. There are also special routes exclusive to women and children, designed to offer a safer and more comfortable commute.
For the return trip, if you miss one of these routes, you will find taxis at the entrance of Ciudad Carnaval. An important tip: agree on the price before getting in, as rates can vary.
Much more than just parades
Beyond the parades, Ciudad Carnaval offers a wide schedule of shows, ranging from free concerts with national and international artists to shows created specifically for this festival.
One of the most anticipated is the Show de Reyes (Kings’ Show), where the Carnival Kings and Queens present a dance and music performance inspired by the year's theme. These shows are usually presented before and after the parades on one of the venue's stages, so it is worth keeping an eye on the schedules via official social media channels (both the Mérida Carnival and Yucatán Today) or the Carnival website.
Survival tips for the Mérida Carnival-Goer
- Dress up and stay comfortable: Carnaval is the perfect opportunity to pull those costumes or colorful outfits out of your closet. Many people, from children to adults, take the opportunity to dress up. That said, prioritize comfort, as the Xmatkuil fairgrounds are very large and you will have to walk quite a bit to move between shows or the parade.
- Hydrate: Although February isn’t as hot as the rest of the year, we’re still in Yucatán: stay well-hydrated and prepare for a day in the sun.
- Timing is everything: The parades usually last between an hour and a half and two hours. Keep this in mind: Official times indicate when the parade leaves the starting point. If you choose a spot in the middle or toward the end of the route, consider that there will be a time lag before the parade reaches you.
- Arrive early: Although there is plenty of space along the route, the areas closest to the start tend to fill up first. The good news is that the wait doesn't feel long: there are stages at various points with regional comedians and mini-shows to warm up the atmosphere before the parade begins.
- Connectivity: Due to the crowds, cell phone signals often fail. Agree on a meeting point with your companions in case anyone gets separated.
- Try local snacks: Don't resist some piedras with habanero chili or a marquesita while you wait. Snacks are an essential part of the experience!
- Sun protection: For the morning parades (Sunday and Tuesday), a parasol or hat is essential, as many bleachers do not have a roof and the 1 pm sun is unforgiving.
- Bring a tote bag: Use a tote or eco-friendly bag to store anything you catch: cups, shirts, flowers, and souvenirs fly from the floats, and you won't want to walk through Ciudad Carnaval with your hands full.
- Be patient: Go with a relaxed mindset. It is a massive event; there will be lines and wait times, but it’s all part of the experience, and the party vibe is felt at all times.
- Prepare your kids: If you’re going with children, talk to them about what to expect from being part of a crowd, and to go straight to a police officer in case they get separated from your party.
Some say Carnival isn't for everyone. I believe you have to experience it at least once. Being surrounded by music, colors, and energy is enough to spread the Carnival spirit… even to the most serious person, making them move their shoulders without even realizing it.
For updated schedules and details, the best thing to do is check the official site: merida.gob.mx/carnaval
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