Discover Hanal Pixán in Quintana Roo: Tradition, Food, and Festivities

Where to Find the Best Hanal Pixán Celebrations in Quintana Roo in 2024

Hanal Pixán, the Maya tradition of honoring the dead, is a celebration deeply rooted in the Yucatán Peninsula’s culture, and in Quintana Roo, it has become one of the most anticipated events of the year. Unlike the more widely known Día de los Muertos, Hanal Pixán is a unique experience that blends ancient rituals, vibrant festivities, and regional cuisine.

As Maya families gather to prepare offerings for their ancestors, towns across the state come alive with colorful altars, traditional music, and food prepared in ways passed down through generations. For visitors, it’s an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the living history of the Maya people while enjoying the beauty and spirit of Quintana Roo.

Not surprisingly, Quintana Roo has embraced Hanal Pixán as a special opportunity to encourage cultural tourism. With support from private initiatives and government efforts at the state and municipal levels, the celebration, once overlooked, has become a major attraction. In fact, many places across the state have been hosting events for nearly two decades, and now even tour companies promote the “cena de ánimas” (spirits’ dinner) as a must-see event.

Top Hanal Pixán Celebrations in Quintana Roo

Hanal Pixán in Quintana Roo offers visitors a unique chance to experience family traditions, local cuisine, and cultural heritage in a festive atmosphere. There are several notable Hanal Pixán celebrations that are drawing attention across the state and beyond. Here’s a quick look at these vibrant events.

Festival of Life and Death Traditions at Xcaret (Oct 30 – Nov 3)

Now in its 18th edition, Xcaret’s Festival de Tradiciones de Vida y Muerte is one of the most well-known celebrations in the country. Each year, around 20,000 visitors per day enjoy the park’s festive atmosphere, featuring traditional cuisine, cultural performances, and gala concerts. This festival sometimes blends and other times juxtaposes the traditions of Dia de los Muertos and Hanal Pixan so you can get a taste of both.

This year’s lineup includes performances by Reik and Silvana Estrada. For 2024, Quintana Roo, celebrating its 50th anniversary as a free and sovereign state, is the festival’s guest of honor, shining a spotlight on the Maya traditions of the northern, central, and southern regions of the state.

The Festival de Vida y Muerte is open to the public but if you want to splurge and stay at one of the finest resort properties on the Riviera Maya, see if you can get into Xcaret Arte.

Immersive Hanal Pixán Experience at Mayakoba

On November 1, Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen inaugurates their first Hanal Pixán celebration with an immersive experience that blends art, tradition, and cuisine. Starting at noon, visitors can participate in cultural and craft workshops, explore beautifully crafted altars while silently boating through Mayakoba’s canals, and enjoy live performances at an immersive altar that reflects the Maya view of death.

As evening falls, a gourmet dinner highlights the authentic flavors of the Yucatán Peninsula, providing a rich culinary journey. The day wraps up with an “After-Dead Party” at El Pueblito, featuring live music and an altar awards ceremony, creating a festive atmosphere to end this memorable celebration.

Most of the Hanal Pixan events at Mayakoba are for guests of the resort only so you will need to check availability at one of their fantastic hotel properties.

Hanal Pixán in El Pueblo del Maíz, Cozumel (Oct 31 – Nov 2)

Now in its eighth year, Cozumel’s Hanal Pixán celebration in the Pueblo del Maíz offers visitors a unique, immersive experience. Attendees can participate in traditional activities like making pib, preparing tamales, and crafting chocolate. The event also features pre-Hispanic rituals, providing a deep connection to the pre-colonial roots of the celebration.

Where to stay on Cozumel? We love the luxury jungle vibe at The Explorean. If you are looking for beachfront, you can´t miss with the InterContinental Presidente Cozumel.

Hanal Pixán in Puerto Juárez, Cancún (Oct 31 – Nov 3)

In just its fourth year, the Hanal Pixán celebration in Puerto Juárez has quickly become one of Cancún’s biggest cultural events, often attracting larger crowds than Xcaret. A highlight of the festival is the arrival of costumed catrinas and catrines on boats at Puerto Juárez, where a parade through the main avenue of Cancún kicks off the festivities. The event features a traditional food showcase, contests for best altars and costumes, and free public transportation, making it a fantastic community celebration.

Where to stay in Cancun? We like the InterContinental Presidente and Live Aqua for an adults-only splurge.

Hanal Pixán Luz y Vida in Isla Mujeres (Oct 29 – Nov 2)

Although Isla Mujeres has always celebrated Día de Muertos, 2024 marks the first edition of the Luz y Vida Festival, a week-long event full of activities honoring the dead. This includes contests for altars, costumes, and pib, along with religious ceremonies and a concert featuring Kika Edgar and Miriam Montemayor.

Where to stay on Isla Mujeres? Our top pick for a luxurious, adult-only stay is Impression by Secrets. Check out Casa de los Suenos if you are traveling with the kids.

Hanal Pixán Mestizaje at Cenotes Zapote

The celebration continues on November 10 at the breathtaking Cenotes Zapote with Hanal Pixán Mestizaje, an event known for its authenticity and sacred setting. Here, artisans from Leona Vicario and Puerto Morelos showcase handmade crafts and traditional Maya dishes.

As part of the festivities, a symbolic pilgrimage to the Maya underworld unfolds, capturing the essence of Hanal Pixán. This immersive and mystical experience offers visitors a unique way to connect with the spiritual significance of this ancient tradition.

Looking for a place to stay in Puerto Morelos? Areia Boutique Hotel is a nice place that won’t break the bank. If you are looking to treat yourself, check out El Dorado Royale.

Hanal Pixán at ExpoFer in Chetumal (Nov 1-2)

As part of Quintana Roo’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, the traditional ExpoFer will host a special exhibition of Day of the Dead altars at Parque Quintana Roo, with a particular focus on Maya altars representing Hanal Pixán. If your travels take you down the Costa Maya to Chetumal, you won’t want to miss this year’s festivities.

Where should you stay in Chetumal? The Explorean Kohunlich is a little remote but offers a truly unique experience. Want to stay right in town? It’s hard to beat Fiesta Inn.

If you’re planning to visit Quintana Roo during this special time, make sure to check out one (or more) of these incredible events. Each offers a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the region, blending history, food, and festivities in a way that only the Yucatán Peninsula can deliver.

Whether it’s the grand celebration at Xcaret or the more intimate gatherings in places like Isla Mujeres, Hanal Pixán in Quintana Roo promises a truly unforgettable experience.