2025 Caribbean Neon Carnival Takes Playa del Carmen by Storm

Playa del Carmen is gearing up to host the 2025 "Caribbean Neon" Carnival, a vibrant celebration filled with color, music, and fun, scheduled to take place from February 26 to March 4. The event is expected to attract over 30,000 participants and will primarily be held at the Plaza 28 de Julio, with float parades set to take place throughout the city and Puerto Aventuras.

The Playa del Carmen 2025 Carnival Committee was officially formed in a formal ceremony, headed by the municipal president, Estefanía Mercado. Mercado and her team have shared details about the upcoming grand event. The mayor also announced that the carnival will be promoted at the International Tourism Fair (Fitur) 2025 in Madrid, Spain. At the fair, the new city brand of Playa del Carmen will be unveiled, showcasing the wide range of tourist attractions the destination offers.

This year's carnival will feature an extended float parade route, allowing more spectators to enjoy the traditional parade. The parade will kick off on the iconic Quinta Avenida, continue along the 30 Avenida and Avenida Juárez, and conclude at the Plaza 28 de Julio. The characters Ha’na, Ko’, and K’iin, known as the Guardians of the City, will embody the spirit of the carnival, promising a magical and unforgettable experience for all attendees.

The public is also invited to participate in the carnival king and queen contests, as well as troupes and costume contests in various categories. The event will showcase local talent, including samba and dance groups, and feature a lineup of national and international guests, to be announced in late January.

The carnival will officially begin on February 26, with the crowning of the festive monarchs. The first parade will take place the next day, with local hotels joining in the celebration. In total, there will be five journeys of the floats and troupes, ensuring days of fun-filled activities.

Ernesto Martínez, director of the Municipal Institute of Culture and the Arts, and Estefanía Hernández, Secretary of Tourism, both emphasized the significance of the carnival as a major event for the destination. The carnival will conclude on March 4 with festivities moving to Puerto Aventuras. In Playa del Carmen, the traditional reading of the will and the burning of "Juan Carnaval" will symbolize the end of a celebration that will leave lasting memories for all attendees.