Playa del Carmen, Cancun, and the Riviera Maya are known for many different things. The incredible amount of excursions, beautiful all-inclusive resorts, the jungle, cenotes, breathtaking the Caribbean Sea, culture, and more. But there is often something that many people don’t commonly know. The Riviera Maya is one of the best places to experience different types of music from around the world.
Musicians from Mexico and other countries bring their talents to the Riviera Maya and perform for travelers. While you can find different bands and solo musicians throughout the year in bars, on the beach, in restaurants, or even on the famous 5th avenue in Playa del Carmen, there is nothing quite like the month of November. Keep reading to learn more about the famous Riviera Maya Jazz Festival and why you need to experience it during your next vacation.
History of Jazz
Before we tell you about one of the best Jazz Festivals in the world, let’s take it back to where it all started. In the early part of the 20th century, Jazz swept the United States, becoming a popular genre of music for people from different parts of the world living in the country. It started with a mix of African American musical traditions mixed with other different traditions. The evolution and popularity of Jazz grew with great musicians such as Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong, giving us the beautiful genre of music we have today.
The Annual Jazz Festival in the Riviera Maya
This fantastic festival has been in Playa del Carmen since 2003 and brings travelers and locals together for three days filled with new connections and amazing music. The Riviera Maya is well known for its deep cultural ties, and events like these bring people together alongside skilled talent. Some of the past greats in Jazz that have made appearances at the festival include:
- George Benson
- Sergio Mendez
- Celso Pina
- Spyro Gira
This festival runs in late November (25th, 26th, and 27th) and has been known to attract over 10,000 people to the Riviera Maya to celebrate the event.
See the Riviera Jazz Festival Facebook page for more information.
Unbeatable Location for Jazz Music
Jazz is known for its relaxing and freeing vibes, and what better way to listen and dance to it than on one of the Mexican Caribbean’s incredible white sand beaches? The festival is located on Mamitas Beach, Playa del Carmen (between Calle 32 NTE and Calle 28 NT). The location is unbeatable as it is easy to get too and you have the refreshing breeze of the Caribbean Sea right next to you.
Times and Admission Prices for the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival
If you happen to find yourself in Playa del Carmen between November 25th – 27th, this event is an absolute must and the best part is that it is free for everyone. Why? This Jazz Festival brings together many tourists and locals. While they get to listen to beautiful music, they also get to support the local economy through purchases in local stores, restaurants, and bars. So, when you visit the festival, make sure to support the local businesses.
This event starts around 7:00 pm every night and runs for about 4-5 hours. We recommend getting there extra early to get a good spot. Don’t forget to bring a beach chair or blanket to rest on when you get tired from all of the dancing. Also, make sure to bring some snacks and drinks; we guarantee you are not going to want to leave once the festival begins.
Other Things to Do in the Riviera Maya During your Vacation
While the Jazz Festival starts around 7 in the evening, what are you going to do during the day? Luckily for you, there are so many different excursions to do and places to see. Here are some of the most popular things to do during a day in the Riviera Maya:
- Get to know the culture: This area was once inhabited by the great Mayan civilization hundreds of years ago. Today, we are left with preserved Mayan Cities that once stood tall. The best places to visit Mayan Ruins are Chichen Itza, Coba, and Ek Balam.
- Go swimming in a crystal water cenote: Days in the Caribbean under the sun can get a little warm, and freshwater cenotes are the ideal place to cool off. The Riviera Maya is famous for the seemingly endless amount of underground, semi-open, and open cenotes. Back in the time of the Mayans, these were used for celebrations and even sacrifices.
- Spend a day on the beach: If you need to do something during your time in Playa del Carmen, you must visit one of the stunning white-sand beaches. Whether you want to relax or have fun, the choice is yours. As an added bonus, one of the best beach clubs in Playa del CarmenMamitas Beach Club, is just steps away from the festival. So if you want to stay close and have a ton of fun during the day, we definitely recommend checking it out.
These are just a few of the things you can do during your vacation! At Sandos Hotels & Resorts, you can book the excursion of your dreams with Seek & Go. No matter what kind of adventure you want, whether it is cultural, exciting, or relaxing, they have an excursion for everyone.
Accommodation Options
While you enjoy the Jazz festival, you are going to have to find a place to call home, and we have the best all-inclusive resorts ready to welcome you:
Sandos Caracol
Situated deep within the jungle, Sandos Caracol provides an eco getaway for its guests. With rich flora and wildlife, guests can immerse themselves in nature through activities, food, and performances throughout their stay. This resort is perfect for families as it boasts a grand waterpark, cenotes, eco-activities, international restaurants, jaw-dropping performances, and so much more.
Sandos Playacar
For those looking for more of a beach vacation, then Sandos Playacar is the place to be. Located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Quintana Roo, there is no better place to be than on its white sands. With fun activities, delicious food options, waterparks, adults-only options, and more, Sandos Playacar is ideal for any and all during their time in the Riviera Maya.
Sandos Cancun
While the Jazz Festival is in Playa del Carmen, Sandos Cancun is just a short 1-hour drive from it. With infinity pools, unbeatable performance, exciting entertainment, and outstanding amenities and services, Sandos Cancun truly embodies a vacation in Cancun. Located in the heart of the Cancun Hotel Zone, guests are within walking distance of the local shopping centers, clubs, bars, and restaurants.
So, are you ready to witness one of the most amazing festivals in your life? Well, don’t miss out on the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival on November 25th, 26th, and 27th in Playa del Carmen, Mexico!
