What to do in Yucatán in February

What to do in Yucatán in February.

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The best events and activities in Mérida and Yucatán 

Are you looking for an escape from the cold? Yucatán is your ideal destination! Start the year with the beauty of its landscapes, the richness of its culture, and the warmth of its people. Enjoy art exhibitions and outdoor activities, participate in exciting marathons, concerts, and unique festivals like no other. The party lasts all month long!

The Weather In Yucatán In February

February is the third coolest month in Yucatán, after January and December. Temperatures average between 33ºC/91ºF (high) and 19ºC/66ºF (low). Keep in mind that some of Yucatán’s low temperature records have taken place in February: 5ºC/41ºF in Mérida and 0ºC/32ºF in the southern part of the state. Another thing to consider: if we’re hit by a “norte” or cold front, watch out for “heladez”: this made-up word that roughly translates as “iciness” refers to the feeling of mild temperatures (in the mid-teens Celsius or 60s Fahrenheit) chilling your bones.

February is drier than it is rainy, and clear skies throughout are the norm. This gives way to warm days, with cool mornings and evenings. Make sure to protect yourself from the sun and to stay hydrated

Traveling to Yucatán in February

February is one of the busiest months for tourism in Yucatán. The mild winter makes visiting much easier for those who are not used to Yucatán's heat, and therefore, you are likely to encounter a lot of activity wherever you go, especially in the most popular places such as Chichén Itzá and Valladolid. We recommend making your plans in advance and making reservations for the activities you wish to do, so you don't miss out on anything.

Festivals and Events in Yucatán in February

DURING FEBRUARY: WHAT IF YOU WERE ANOTHER BIRD?

If you’re in Valladolid this month, it’s well worth stopping by the gallery at Teatro José María Iturralde Traconis to see the temporary exhibition What if You Were Another Bird? Bodies, Absences, and What Remains by artist Monika Gabrys. The show offers a thoughtful and intimate reflection on identity, the body, memory, and those invisible wings we carry without always noticing. The exhibition is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm, and admission is free.

FEBRUARY 4 - 28: CONCERTS IN MÉRIDA

February arrives with a packed music agenda in Mérida, featuring concerts for all tastes and generations.

• February 4 with Alan Parsons at Foro GNP Seguros
• February 5, Eladio Carrión t Foro GNP Seguros
• February 7, Foro GNP heats up again with Panteón Rococó at 8:30 pm.
• February 14, Matisse takes the stage at Auditorio Coca-Cola La Isla
• February 19, it’s Silvana Estrada’s turn at Auditorio Coca-Cola La Isla at 9 pm
• February 22, Big Time Rush arrives at Foro GNP Seguros at 8 pm.
• February 24, Shakira will close the month on a high note, at Estadio Carlos Iturralde at 9 pm
• February 28, Los Tigres del Norte at Foro GNP Seguros, also at 9 pm.

FEBRUARY 5–18: PROGRESO CARNIVAL 2026

The Progreso Carnival is one of the most beloved celebrations in the state, and in 2026, it returns with the theme “The Joy of Life,” a celebration inspired by the different realms of nature: mammals, birds, reptiles, marine life, insects, and Mother Earth.

• February 13 at 6 pm, the 2026 Dog Carnival, at Parque Independencia
• February 13 at 8 pm, the Paseo de Corso along the Traditional Boardwalk.
• February 15 at 5 pm, music will also take center stage with performances by La Original Banda El Limón
• February 17 at 5 pm, Ha*Ash in concert
• February 16, one of the most anticipated moments is the Convite and Regional Vaquería, featuring a procession from the Traditional Boardwalk to Casa de la Cultura.
• February 17 at 12 pm, to wrap things up, the Battle of Flowers Parade will take place on  along the Boardwalk.

FB: Comité de Carnaval de Progreso

FEBRUARY 7: NIGHTTIME BIKE ROUTE

The nighttime bike ride has become a classic Mérida tradition! If you're in town on the first Saturday of the month (February 7 this time), don’t miss it! Ride along Paseo de Montejo and enjoy the last remnants of February’s cool weather, perfect for 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?

THROUGH FEBRUARY 8: EXPO FERIA VALLADOLID 2026

The Expo Feria Valladolid is one of the year’s first major celebrations, held in honor of the Virgin of Candelaria. For two weeks, this Magical Town comes alive with music, dancing, traditional food, and—of course—plenty of tamales on February 2. In its 2026 edition, the fair runs through February 8, offering activities for all ages. Highlights include the traditional Candelaria Road Race, taking place on February 1 at 6 am. As for music, there will be live performances for fans of regional Mexican and tropical sounds, with Super Lamas on February 2, Banda MS on February 6, and a Battle of the Bands on February 7 featuring Tony Ro, Marca LB, and Banda Consentida. For the full schedule of remaining events, check the official social media channels of the Valladolid City Council.

FB: H. Ayuntamiento de Valladolid Yucatán 2024-2027

FEBRUARY 11–18: MÉRIDA CARNIVAL

Mérida Carnival returns in 2026 with the theme “Circo Carnaval,” turning the city into a vibrant spectacle filled with color, music, and joy. Seven days of celebration, tradition, and non-stop fun will take over the streets of Mérida and Ciudad Carnaval. This edition will feature four circus-style tents, each offering different concepts and activities designed to enjoy with family and friends. To learn more about what to expect from the Mérida Carnival 2026, check out all the details:

• Mérida Carnival 2026
  
• How to Enjoy the 2026 Mérida Carnival—And Live to Tell

FEBRUARY 14: VALENTINE'S DAY

Remember that Valentine's Day in México celebrates love and friendship. Whether with a partner or friends, this day is the perfect excuse to celebrate, and here are some ideas for you:

• A Romantic Night in Mérida
• Plan your romantic getaway in Yucatán
• Celebrate Friendship with More Than Just Food

FEBRUARY 14: CANDLELIGHT CONCERTS

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate a little differently by attending one of Candlelight’s concerts at Palacio de la Música with your partner or friends.

• The evening begins at 7 pm with a Best of Hans Zimmer tribute, where an ensemble of two violins, viola, and cello will perform iconic themes from films like Interstellar, Dune, The Lion King, Pirates of the Caribbean, and more. Get your tickets here!
• Later, at 9 pm, the Valentine’s Day Special takes over, featuring the CONCUERDAS! Quartet, filling the venue with romance through pieces like La Vie en Rose, Can’t Help Falling in Love, Unchained Melody, and other swoon-worthy classics. Get your tickets here!

FEBRUARY 15: A RACE FOR COUPLES

If this Valentine’s Day you’re looking to swap dinner plans for something more active, add the Duo Trail to your calendar. The race takes place on February 15 at 6 am and features an 8.5 km course designed exclusively for couples. Starting in Tixcuytún, the route invites you to see love not as a fairy tale, but as technical terrain best tackled as a team. Registration costs $490 pesos and is open until February 12. Sign up at www.laliga.bike

FEBRUARY 15: A RUN WITH FRIENDS

If you’d rather celebrate by running with your friends, there’s another race happening that same day, February 15, at 6 am in Umán. This 5K run is also done in pairs, but the idea is simple and flexible: you can team up with a friend, your partner, or anyone you like. Each pair will wear a ribbon and must stay together for the entire race, from start to finish. Registration costs $100 pesos and includes a race bib, hydration, fruit, and a finisher medal. There will also be prizes. To sign up, contact Karime May via WhatsApp at +52 999 315 8793.

FEBRUARY 20, 21 & 22: OPEN THE DOORS TO ART WITH MEL

This month, the MEL Artist Studio Tour arrives—an invitation to peek into the creative heart of Mérida. Over three consecutive days, artists from a wide range of disciplines will open the doors of their studios to share both their work and their creative processes, including painting, sculpture, modeling, printmaking, stamping, textile art, and more. In addition to enjoying works for every taste and style, you’ll get to see where these pieces come to life and chat directly with the artists behind them. The tour is self-guided, and tickets—available starting February 3—include a map with the locations of more than 40 participating studios. Explore on foot, by bike, or by car on Friday, February 20, from 4 to 8 pm; Saturday, February 21, from 10 am to 6 pm; and Sunday, February 22, from 10 am to 4 pm. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit meridaenglishlibrary.com/register 

During February, MEL will continue with its high-season events and programs:

• Conversations with Friends: Mondays at 9 pm
• MEL House & Garden Tour: Wednesdays at 9:30 am (check out their evening and off-site tours!)
• MEL Talks: Wednesdays at 7 pm
• Storytime: Every second Saturday at 10 am
• Bingo Night: Saturday 28, at 7 pm

Traditional celebrations in February

In Yucatán, traditional fiestas blend 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 moves, 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. The following list includes the period in which celebrations take place when it has been confirmed as we go to print; otherwise, the patron saint’s festivity is listed. Check our website for the dates of vaquerías and popular dances.

• Chicxulub Pueblo
  Until February 10 (Virgin of Candelaria/Candlemas)
• Xaya (Tekax)
  Until February 3 (Virgin of Candelaria/Candlemas)
• Motul
  Until February 3 (Saint John Bosco)
• San Felipe
  February 1-5 (The town's patron saint)
• Hunucmá February 2 (Arrival of the Virgin of the Assumption)
• Valladolid February 2 (Virgin of Candelaria/Candlemas)
• Mexico (National Holiday)
  February 5 is the official date of Constitution Day, and in 2025 it will be observed on Monday, February 3. On this day, there is no work or school, and banks are closed.
• Chichimilá
  February 10-18  (The town's patron saint)
• Mexico (National Celebration)
  February 14 (Valentine's Day/Day of Love and Friendship)
• Mexico (National Celebration)
  February 24 (Flag Day)
• Yucatán (State-wide Celebration)
  February 25 to March 14 (Virgin of Bethlehem)

Continue exploring Yucatán and discover the Calendar of Traditional Fairs and Festivals.