August is the end of what Yucatecos refer to as “La Temporada” (the season), meaning the summer months of July and August. These were the months that traditionally comprised schoolchildren’s summer break, which meant entire families would move to the beach for the season. Current school calendars have shortened the season, as children usually start school in mid-August. As the month progresses, you’ll notice the coastal villages’ bustle declining, and the traffic in Mérida pick back up with a vengeance.
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In Yucatán, ambient temperatures don't vary much between May and September: thermometers typically show highs averaging 34ºC (93ºF) and lows averaging 24°C (74°F). However, the true story is the heat index—what the temperature feels like due to humidity. This can hit an unsafe 53ºC (127ºF) in August! Always carry water for hydration, use ample sunscreen, and wear protective clothing (including hats).
August is part of Yucatán's rainy season. Though not as wet as June or September, you can expect intense, albeit usually brief, afternoon downpours. Even without rain, the constant cloud cover and high humidity will keep you sweating.
THROUGHOUT AUGUST 9: 125 YEARS OF MEXICAN DRAWINGS
You still have time to visit Cachorros de Tigre! This traveling exhibition, which brings together 125 years of drawing in México, will be on display at Centro de Artes Visuales only through August 9, so make the most of these final weeks to experience it. Presented in collaboration with the National Center for the Arts of México’s Ministry of Culture and curated by Héctor Vargas-Salazar, the exhibition features more than 200 pieces by 101 artists, including Remedios Varo, Juan Soriano, and Francisco Toledo. Through a variety of styles and artistic approaches, the exhibition offers a journey through the evolution of drawing in México. Admission is free. You can visit Tuesday through Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm.
THROUGH AUGUST 9: RESILIENT BODIES
Make the most of these final days to visit “Resilient Bodies: Social Transgression in Yucatán,” the temporary exhibition at Museo Palacio Cantón, on display through August 9. The exhibition offers a look at different stories that, from various contexts, questioned the boundaries of belonging and challenged the norms imposed in their time in Yucatán. It’s a journey that reminds us that diversity has always been part of our state’s history. You can visit the museum Tuesday through Sunday, from 8 am to 4:30 pm. General admission is $210 pesos, $105 pesos for Mexican citizens, and free for students, teachers, and senior citizens.
THROUGH AUGUST 16: WATERCOLOR IN VALLADOLID
There’s still time to visit “Recorridos mágicos” by Santiago Herrera, an exhibition on display at the Gallery of the José María Iturralde Traconis Theater, in the Magical Town of Valladolid, through August 16. Using watercolor, the artist explores emotions, landscapes, and roots from a contemporary perspective, inviting visitors to rediscover everyday life through new nuances and view their surroundings from a different perspective. You can visit the exhibition for free Wednesday through Sunday, from 11 am to 6 pm.
THROUGH AUGUST 20: TEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS AT THE MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF MÉRIDA
The Museum of the City of Mérida brings together a series of exhibitions featuring different artistic approaches: “Cortezas” (watercolor works by Rodolfo Baeza); “Aetherium” (sculptures by Juan Gorupo); “Non Finito” (paintings by JoCa); and “Imaginarios en resistencia” (photography by Lizette Abraham). You can visit from Tuesday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 2 pm. Admission is free. Don’t miss the chance to see them, as they will be on view only until August 20.
THROUGH AUGUST 23: THE 1990s THROUGH ART
Don’t miss “Estas ruinas que ves”, an exhibition by Yucatecan artist José Luis Bojórquez, on display at Centro Contemporáneo del Mayab through August 23. With paintings and drawings, the exhibition explores the visual and cultural memory of the 1990s, looking at traces, nostalgia, and reconstructions of the past from a contemporary artistic perspective. You can visit the exhibition Monday through Saturday, from 11 am to 6 pm. Admission is free.
THROUGHOUT AUGUST: THEMED TOURS AT GRAN MUSEO DEL MUNDO MAYA
Every Saturday in August, the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya offers thematic tours in its permanent exhibition hall. These are part of the Habitantes del Camino cycle (running from May to August), where each visit explores different themes such as life, architecture, and play, understood as ways of connecting the sky and the earth in the Maya worldview. This month, the tour focuses on Xa’ Anil Naj. The House of the Universe, with Lupita Aké as mediator. Tours take place at 1 pm. For more information, you can check their social media.
THROUGHOUT AUGUST: TOH BIRD FESTIVAL
If you enjoy birdwatching, Yucatán is a privileged destination for discovering incredible species in their natural habitat. From April to November, the Festival de las Aves TOH takes place, an initiative that promotes the appreciation and conservation of local birdlife through activities open to the public. During August, the festival’s schedule includes several experiences that bring you closer to the world of birds. On August 2, you can join a birdwatching outing at Yaaxtal - Guardaparques de Mérida; on August 8, explore the Xocen Birding Trail in Xocén, Valladolid, during the “Camino de aves” activity; and on August 30, enjoy a birdwatching experience at Hacienda Misne Balam and the Former Progreso Landfill. These are just some of the events scheduled for this month. To discover the full calendar of activities taking place over the coming months, visit their Facebook page: Festival de las Aves TOH.
AUGUST 1: NIGHTTIME BIKE TOUR
The nighttime bike ride has become a classic Mérida tradition! If you're in town on the first Saturday of the month (August 2 this time), don’t miss it! Ride along Paseo de Montejo, and enjoy a memorable evening with friends or family. After your adventure, why not wrap up the night with dinner at one of the avenue’s charming restaurants?
AUGUST 8: SEIS THE CONCERT
This August 8 at 7 pm, enjoy “SEIS: El Concierto”, a musical that reimagines the story of Henry VIII’s six wives through a pop concert format featuring live music. On stage, the six queens take the microphone to share their own versions of the story through songs, humor, and empowering moments. A performance that celebrates memory, sisterhood, and the power of telling history from a female perspective. General admission tickets cost $510 pesos and can be purchased at www.tusboletos.mx
AUGUST 9: SYMPHONIC TRIBUTE TO JUAN GABRIEL
This August 9 at 3 pm, enjoy an afternoon of music and celebration with “El Divo” Symphonic Tribute at Teatro Armando Manzanero, a concert honoring one of México’s most beloved musical icons: Juan Gabriel. Accompanied by an orchestra and featuring more than 35 artists on stage, the concert will bring to life some of the songs that have marked generations, including Querida, Amor Eterno, Así Fue, Hasta Que Te Conocí, and many more. Ten years after his passing, this tribute celebrates the legacy of an artist whose songs became part of México’s collective memory. Tickets are available starting at $250 pesos and can be purchased at www.tusboletos.mx
AUGUST 15: XX SUMMER WAVES
If you enjoy electronic music, the ocean, and the energy of festivals, don’t miss XX Summer Waves in Progreso on August 15. Get ready for a beachfront experience featuring performances by national and international DJs, along with interactive activities that combine music, the beach, and the festive atmosphere of Yucatán’s coast. The event will take place at Marymar Beach Club Progreso. Tickets are available starting at $550 pesos and can be purchased at www.tusboletos.mx
AUGUST 15–16: FROZEN TREAT FESTIVAL
On August 15 and 16, La Plancha Park will be filled with flavor for the fifth edition of the coolest festival of the year. Enjoy artisanal ice creams, popsicles, gelato, frappés, milkshakes, iced coffee, chamoyadas, desserts, snacks, and much more. You’ll also have the chance to support local talent, with Yucatecan entrepreneurs and brands showcasing their products during the event. There will be live music and family-friendly activities, so bring whoever you want… and treat yourself!
August 15: 2 – 11 pm
August 16: 12 – 10 pm
AUGUST 30: MARITIME PILGRIMAGE OF THE BLAK CHRIST OF SISAL
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Don't miss the maritime pilgrimage of the Black Christ of Sisal, a unique Yucatecan tradition that fuses faith with vibrant local culture. This annual celebration, which honors the patron saint of fishermen, begins in early August with festivities that culminate in a spectacular maritime procession.
On Sunday, August 30, 2026, join hundreds of devotees and adorned boats to accompany the Black Christ on a journey through the sea, an experience that unites the community and immerses you in the magic of Yucatan's traditions. If you're looking for an authentic connection to the essence of the state, this pilgrimage is a must-see event.
FB: Capilla San José Sisal Yucatán
Traditional Fairs in Yucatán in August
In Yucatán, traditional fiestas are a showcase of religious syncretism, blending elements from Catholicism with pre-Hispanic beliefs. These festivities usually begin with the "bajada" of the saint—that is, moving its image from its usual place in the church to make it accessible for the faithful to view.
Days later, the fiesta officially kicks off with the Vaquería, a traditional celebration where people dance Jarana to the live music of an orchestra. Dancers from all over the Península attend the Vaquerías to show off their best steps, elegantly dressed in their traditional attire. On the days that follow the Vaquería, there are often popular dances. Throughout the celebration, you'll also find carnival rides for children, food stalls, and various attractions, along with processions, bullfighting activities, fireworks, and lots of noise.
- Maní
August 20 (Our Lady of the Assumption) - Sanahcat
August 16 (Our Lady of the Assumption) - Tetiz
August 15 (Our Lady of the Assumption) - Xcuyún (Conkal)
August 1 - 12 (Saint Dominic) - Yunkú
July 5–20 (Saint Dominic)
To learn more you can also read Everything you need to know about Gremios of Yucatán or the Calendar of Fiestas and Fairs in Yucatán.
Check out what some local businesses (advertisers in Yucatán Today) are offering this month
DISCOVER ROOF 480 BY ROSAS & XOCOLATE
Mérida’s nights welcome a new benchmark of sophistication with the opening of Roof 480 by Rosas & Xocolate. At the top of the iconic Rosas & Xocolate, overlooking the emblematic Paseo de Montejo, a space emerges for those who seek experiences beyond the ordinary.
Roof 480 by Rosas & Xocolate brings together a refined mixology program, thoughtfully curated cuisine, and an elegant atmosphere, all framed by one of the most privileged views in the city.
Open Thursday through Saturday, from 7 pm to 1 am, this new destination invites guests to toast under Mérida’s night sky, where music, impeccable service, and every detail come together to create the perfect setting for memorable gatherings.
Thursday through Saturday
7 pm - 1 am
WhatsApp: 999 216 0645
IG: rosasyxocolate
FB: Rosas & Xocolate
MEL SUMMER SALE - Sunday, August 30
The MEL Summer Sale has become a community favorite, offering a great opportunity to discover and support local talent. At this bazaar, you’ll find crafts, jewelry, clothing, art, home décor, books, plants, food, drinks, and more—all directly from their creators. Join in this Sunday, August 30, starting at 10 am, with live music, activities for the whole family, and a selection of secondhand items. A great way to spend the day, find unique pieces, and visit the Mérida English Library. Both events are free, in English, and open to the public. For more information, visit:
https://meridaenglishlibrary.com/
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 464, in August 2026.
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