If you want to celebrate the New Year in a destination that is warm, festive, and full of unique experiences, Cancún is one of the best options in the Caribbean. During December and New Year's, the city lights up with decorations, special events, traditional gastronomy, and celebrations that blend the Christmas spirit with Mexican folklore.
Celebrating New Year's in Cancún means enjoying warm weather, spectacular beaches, and a season rich in Mexican traditions. Unlike other cities where everything shuts down, Cancún keeps its activities, restaurants, and attractions open, even on holidays.
If you decided to come here to escape the cold, you have arrived at the right place. In the Mexican Caribbean, the December holidays are celebrated intensely: for nearly a month, you can enjoy cultural events, special dinners, shows, live music, and parties in hotels and nightclubs.
From December 16th to 24th, the traditional Posadas are celebrated in Mexico, one of the country's most representative festivities. These celebrations recreate the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph seeking refuge before the birth of Jesus. In Cancún, Posadas are often represented with candlelit processions, traditional carols, and the characteristic moment of breaking the seven-pointed piñata, a symbol of Mexican culture. Many hotels, theme parks, and local communities organize Posadas open to the public, allowing visitors to enjoy this authentic tradition.
December 24th, known as Nochebuena (Christmas Eve), is a date of great importance for Mexican families. Locals usually gather for a special dinner that includes traditional dishes like bacalao (codfish), baked ham or pork leg, tamales, or Christmas salads. In Cancún, some businesses close earlier due to the family-oriented nature of the date; however, most hotels and restaurants offer Christmas Eve dinners and special events for visitors. Additionally, many churches hold the traditional midnight mass, known as Misa de Gallo (Rooster's Mass), and the Nativity scenes are completed with the figure of the Baby Jesus upon nightfall.
On December 25th, Cancún maintains a festive and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike other destinations, the city does not completely shut down: most restaurants continue to operate, many featuring Christmas menus or themed events for tourists. This day is ideal for relaxing on the beach, enjoying your hotel, or visiting tourist sites with greater tranquility, as there is usually less movement compared to the preceding days.
December 28th marks the Día de los Santos Inocentes (Day of the Holy Innocents) in Mexico, a date similar to the American "April Fools' Day." Jokes and fake news shared among friends, family, and even local media are common during this day. Cancún also celebrates this day with humor, and visitors may find festive nods in restaurants, hotels, or cultural activities.
Although it occurs after New Year's, Three Kings' Day (Día de Reyes) is an essential part of the December season in Mexico. On this date, the Three Wise Men are added to the Nativity scenes, completing the tradition started on December 16th. It is customary to share gifts and enjoy the traditional Rosca de Reyes (Kings' Ring). For those visiting Cancún on this date, it is an opportunity to experience a deep aspect of Mexican culture in hotels, town squares, and public spaces.
During this time, you can find great deals at some locations, such as the dolphin swim habitats. If you are looking to add a memorable moment to your trip, this is one of the most recommended activities for closing the year in a unique way.
At Delphinus, we want you to have an extraordinary holiday season and for your stay in Cancún to include something you will remember for a long time. Discover our seasonal promotions and celebrate the New Year with an experience full of magic.