- A unique blend of tradition, art, haute cuisine, wellness and sport, set against a unique natural backdrop, means that the programme offered by Grupo Xcaret puts the Riviera Maya in the international spotlight as the destination of the year.
- The Xcaret Apapaxoa Gastronomic Collective brings together a constellation of 14 Michelin stars, positioning Xcaret as Mexico’s gastronomic epicentre.
This year, Grupo Xcaret invites you to embark on a journey through culture, art, gastronomy and sport in incomparable natural settings. Each event connects the public with Mexico’s identity, offering experiences ranging from wellness and music to sporting challenges and traditional celebrations. The 2026 programme does more than just entertain
Culture that transcends borders
On 9 May 2026, the 13th edition of the Platino Xcaret Awards will be held at the Gran Tlachco Theatre in Xcaret Park. With entries from over 20 countries, 190 audiovisual works have been shortlisted and will compete to become finalists for this award, which recognises the best in Ibero-American cinema and television series.
In addition to the gala, the 2026 edition will include activities open to the public such as special screenings, meetings with creators, panels on audiovisual innovation and interactive experiences that will transform the park into a cultural and creative hub of international scope.
In July, music blends with the natural surroundings of Xcaret during the Paax GNP Festival, an immersion in the best of symphonic music and dance, performed by internationally renowned soloists under the artistic direction of Alondra de la Parra. With concerts on stages integrated into the landscape, the festival establishes itself as a unique cultural experience.
Gastronomy, craftsmanship and high-impact challenges
As part of Mexico’s national celebrations, the ‘32 Great Women Chefs of Mexico’ festival will take place on 15 September, bringing together one female chef from each of the country’s states to represent it. This event preserves recipes with over 100 years of history, which the chefs, acting as guardians, prepare using techniques passed down through generations.
Immediately following this gastronomic gathering, from 18 to 23 September, the Apapaxoa GastroCultural Festival will take place, bringing together chefs from around the world, including members of the Xcaret Apapaxoa Gastronomic Collective, which currently boasts 14 Michelin stars – one of the most prestigious accolades in gastronomy. Over the course of five days, attendees can enjoy special dinners, tastings, talks and artistic activities.
Immediately afterwards, from 24 to 27 September, the Xcaret Mexican Folk Art Fair will bring together more than 140 artisans from different states of Mexico at Xcaret Park, who will present authentic and carefully selected pieces. This event not only promotes the preservation of ancestral techniques, but also allows the public to interact directly with the creators and learn about the cultural value of each piece, creating a space for fair trade and cultural preservation.
Sport and tradition to round off the year
Adrenaline is also a key part of the programme. The Xplor Bravest Race, held at Xplor Park, will put body and mind to the test on a course that combines jungle, water and obstacles in one of the most spectacular settings in the Mexican Caribbean.
In November, the Xel-Há Triathlon will take place on 14 November, bringing together Olympic, elite and amateur athletes on a circuit that combines swimming, cycling and running within a stunning natural setting, balancing competition, endurance and community spirit.
The calendar will culminate in December with the, a celebration inspired by Mexican Christmas traditions where music, cuisine and a family atmosphere make the end of the season an authentic and moving experience.
With this programme, Grupo Xcaret reaffirms its commitment to cultural preservation, the promotion of artistic and culinary talent, and sport as a vehicle for connection, consolidating the Riviera Maya as a destination that transcends traditional tourism and positions itself as an international benchmark.
About GRUPO XCARET
Grupo Xcaret is a 100% Mexican company with over 30 years’ experience in offering unique and unforgettable experiences, inspired by a respect for nature and culture and a love for Mexico. Currently, Grupo Xcaret comprises various business units: 1) Parks, operating the most iconic attractions in Cancún and the Riviera Maya, such as Parque Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xoximilco and Xenses; 2) Hotels, with the All-Fun Inclusive® concept, which began in 2017 with Hotel Xcaret México, followed by Hotel Xcaret Arte and La Casa de la Playa; 3) Tours, offering cultural and nature tours to destinations such as Chichén Itzá and Tulum, as well as the Xenotes tour; and 4) Xcaret Xailing, its maritime transport division, which provides ferry services from Cancún to Isla Mujeres and from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, as well as catamaran and yacht experiences. In 2026, Xcaret was recognised by Travel + Leisure as Destination of the Year, consolidating more than three decades of development as one of Mexico’s most iconic tourist destinations.
Source: COMUNICACIÓN IBEROAMERICANA