Looking for a different month?
Are you visiting Yucatán in May? Here are some hot tips to make the most of your stay: activities, events, and celebrations you won’t want to miss!
May is the hottest month of the year in Yucatán; historically, the hottest day has been May 11, but the difference might not be that noticeable. By night, expect temperatures around 24°C (74°F). During the day, you’ll see forecasts claiming highs between 37º and 40°C (97 - 104°F); be aware that May is very humid, which might make it feel closer to 45ºC (113ºF).
May might bring intense rainstorms in the afternoons; May isn’t the rainiest month of the year, but it does mark the beginning of the rainy season. Whether or not the rain actually falls, the cloud cover and associated humidity will make you sweat; prepare your sunscreen, dress in natural fibers, and drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated.
In May, wildfires are also very prevalent. While there are agricultural fires going on between March and May, according to an official calendar, these are scheduled, well-regulated, and supervised by authorities. However, the region's high temperatures, combined with gusts of wind, can give way to fires that can spread very quickly. Do you part by picking up and correctly disposing of any glass bottles you might encounter along your way, and by calling 911 if you see a fire starting, regardless of its size.
Events in May in Yucatán
THIS MONTH AT THE PALACIO CANTÓN REGIONAL ANTHROPOLOGY MUSEUM
Palacio Cantón Regional Anthropology Museum is currently offering a healthy mix of pre-Hispanic artifacts and Mérida history through three outstanding exhibits. “Ek Chuah: Trade among the Maya” features items that highlight the artistry and ingenuity of this civilization. “Palacio Cantón: Witness to history” is a look at the museum building itself, a feat of architecture and a prime example of the prosperity Mérida saw during the henequén boom. Finally, in “De Primissimo Cartello” you'll see snapshots of Yucatán history and society as captured through the lens of the city's most prominent photography studio in the 19th and 20th centuries.
NEW EXHIBITION AT THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT
The Museum of Light has inaugurated its new temporary exhibition iik'eel: Extinct and Endangered Insects, and whether you're a fan of these tiny creatures or not, this is one exhibition you won’t want to miss. Here, you’ll discover a wide variety of species from a completely different (and much closer) perspective than usual. It’s the perfect opportunity for a family visit, as it features activities specially designed for little ones.
IT’S BASEBALL SEASON!
The Leones de Yucatán are back on the field with a new season full of excitement. This May, the team will play home games at the recently renovated Kukulkán Stadium on 1, 9, 10, and 11. During the week of the 19, they'll face off against the Diablos Rojos del México in a highly anticipated series. The rest of the month, they'll be on the road, but don’t lose track of them. Whether you’re a baseball fan or just looking to experience one of Yucatán’s most beloved traditions, don’t miss the chance to catch a game at the stadium. And if the game doesn’t win you over, the food definitely will!
THROUGHOUT MAY: TOH BIRD FESTIVAL
The 23rd edition of the Toh Bird Festival, which took place from April to November last year, was an amazing event for bird enthusiasts. This May, the festival continues with a variety of activities, including birdwatching tours in different locations across the state, such as Acuaparque, the Cuxtal Reserve, and the Magical Town of Sisal, as well as talks, workshops, and much more. Discover all the events happening this month and in the coming months through their Facebook Festival de las Aves TOH, and become a true bird lover.
MAY 3: 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 (May 3 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?
MAY 4 - 25: SPORTS EVENTS IN YUCATÁN
If you love sports and want to explore Yucatán in a different way, there are three events this month that you won’t want to miss.
On May 4, take part in Ruta del Faro de Luz y Mar, a 5 k race along the Progreso Boardwalk, where you can enjoy the ocean breeze while celebrating the 122nd anniversary of the port’s lighthouse. Registration costs $360 pesos, and you can sign up at www.dashport.run. On May 18, it’s time for the 6th Valladolid Half Marathon, featuring two distance options: 5 k and 21 k. Prices vary depending on the distance you choose. Register at www.vivedeporte.mx. Finally, to wrap up May in the best way, don’t miss the El Mirador de Ticul challenge on May 25. You can choose between two routes: 5 k or 14 k. Check the registration fees and sign up at www.dashport.run
FROM MAY 3 TO 24: CONCERTS IN MÉRIDA
In May, the capital of Yucatán will be filled with music from artists of different genres to suit all tastes.
- On May 3, José Madero will light up the Auditorio Coca-Cola La Isla with his best songs at 9 pm.
- On May 8, Roberto Carlos will bring nostalgia and memories to many grandmothers with his show at the Foro GNP at 9 pm.
- On May 17, Natalia Lafourcade will give you goosebumps and stir your emotions with her performance at the same venue at 8:30 pm.
- Then, on May 23, Camilo will captivate the audience with his romantic ballads and iconic mustache at the Foro GNP at 9 pm.
- To close the month with a bang, the band Chicago will perform on May 24 at the Foro GNP at 9 pm. Get your tickets at www.eticket.mx and get ready for a month full of music in Mérida.
Traditional Fairs and Fiestas in Yucatán
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.
- Bokobá
May 3 - 5 (Virgin of the Assumption) - Chicxulub Pueblo
May 3 - 5 (The Three Crosses) - Chumayel
Through May 5 (Holy Christ of the Transfiguration) - Euan (Tixkokob)
April 3 - 9 (Virgin of the Immaculate Conception) - Komchén (Mérida)
May 4 - 25 (San Isidro Labrador) - Libre Unión
May 1 - 11 (The Holy Cross) - Mayapán
May 13 - 14 (Holy Christ of Love) - Teabo
Through May 5 (Holy Christ of the Transfiguration)
You can also take advantage of what some local businesses (advertisers in Yucatán Today) are offering this month
COMING WITH FRIENDS TO A WEDDING OR A BACHELORETTE PARTY?
Enjoy the best regenerative and aesthetic treatments for your group, like IV therapy or a Botox Party. Organize your Botox Party at Carell! Call them at 999 120 5878. Are you the bride and want to look radiant? With Luxury Signature facials at Carell, you'll achieve the perfect skin for your big day. Book in advance! Also, this spring, Carell offers non-surgical Brazilian butt lifts. Interested in learning more? Schedule your free consultation by showing this post, and get that bikini body for summer.
Tel. 999 120 5878
IG: carell.care
SCHOOL VISITS IN MAY: GET TO KNOW THE MÉRIDA ENGLISH LIBRARY
For the May edition, our library focuses on school visits, where both teachers and students have the opportunity to explore our facilities and learn about the library’s operations. This program is open to all educational levels, and a prior appointment is required. You can find all the detailed information at this link: www.meridaenglishlibrary.com/library-programs.
In addition, we continue with our regular programs, which include:
- Conversations with Friends: Every Monday at 7 pm
- Storytime: the second Saturday of each month at 10 am
- Bingo Night: the last Saturday of each month
- Prose & Poetry - MEL Open Mic: May 20, June 17, and July 15
- Fiction & Friends - MEL Book Club: May 29, June 26, and July 31
- Spanish Classes: Wednesdays and Fridays starting at 4 pm
We invite you to join these events and enjoy the activities we have for everyone. We look forward to seeing you!
https://meridaenglishlibrary.com/
To be confirmed...
May 18: Celebrate this International Museum Day in Yucatán
On May 18, we celebrate International Museum Day. Mérida and Valladolid, which boast the highest concentration of these venues in Yucatán, always shine with free activities and special events. Don't miss out!
May 20 to 28: Your new hammock awaits in Tekom
Find or renew your hammock at the Hammock Fair in Tekom, southwest of Valladolid, from May 20 to 28. They come in all colors and sizes! Make the most of your stay and visit their cenote K’om Ha, at the center of the community.
May 21: Celebrate Yucatán's Cultural Diversity
The World Day for Cultural Diversity is on May 21; celebrate by immersing yourself in the authentic Maya culture of our state. Some options to explore the authentic everyday life of the Maya include CECIDHY in Izamal, Co’ox Mayab, and Xocen Birding Trail.
May 23 and 24: Enjoy a night filled with art and entertainment
Noche Blanca is back: mark your calendar for May 23 and 24 to enjoy a night of culture, knowledge, and fun, with activities and artistic groups coming from municipalities across the state.
FB: Visit Mérida MX
Related articles
