3 reasons to spend Thanksgiving in Mexico’s Riviera Maya

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, the warm sensation of Christmas incites everyone around—the delicious turkey smell coming out of the oven, pumpkin pie and cranberry sauce on the table, and the holiday tunes playing on the radio—things onwards just start feeling more jolly by the minute. Although it isn’t Christmas just yet, Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness with family, coupled with a delicious feast, making it one of the most sought after holidays of the year. It is also a great time to begin planning for your late fall/early winter getaway and what better place to escape the freezing weather than Mexico’s Riviera Maya. We’ve put together 3 reasons why you should spend Thanksgiving in the Mexican Riviera Maya. 

Riviera Maya Jazz Festival

Playa del Carmen brings the best of Jazz from November 29th to December 1st. Enjoy a show full of great music amidst the fresh breeze of the Mexican Caribbean. The Riviera Maya Jazz Festival is a festival that has brought joy, freedom and memorable moments to guests who come together from all parts of the world to enjoy this sweet genre. It creates unforgettable experiences every year.

In this year’s edition, you’ll have the pleasure of enjoying music from artists such as Chucho Valdés, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Natalia Marrokin, the New York Voices, and more. Admission is free, and the show starts at 7:00 p.m. at Mamita’s Beach Club. You can learn more about this event on their website. 

Thanksgiving outdoor market

Begin your day of gratitude at the Thanksgiving Mini-Market. This year, Playa del Carmen will host this special event open to the public that will offer activities for the entire family to enjoy. Test your pie-eating skills at their pie-eating contest, enjoy a face painting session (great for kids), live music, local craft vendors, and more! Don’t forget to bring your furry pal as it will be 100% pet-friendly. The event is set to kick off on November 28th, starting at 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Plaza Paseo Coba. You can learn more about this event on their Facebook page.

The “Magic Begins Here” Festival

From November 27th to 29th, guests of Grand Velas Riviera Maya Resort will be treated to daily performances by the highly awarded team of the “Magic Begins Here” Festival. This inspiring festival will feature a picnic in the garden where children will be able to interact with the distinguished team of magicians from the US, Japan, and Mexico. In addition to a rich traditional Thanksgiving dinner, there will be a dinner show alternating on no fewer than three stages. This special event will conclude with “up close and personal” with the stars at the resort’s three restaurants. The festival is named after Mexican artist Sergio Bustamante’s famed “Mago” (magician). His whimsical sculpture with the signature name ”The Magic Begins Here” can be found in Grand Velas resorts in Los Cabos and Riviera Nayarit, showcasing a collection of the finest Mexican art.

So if you’re looking to spice things up on this Thanksgiving holiday, the Mexican Caribbean is the go-to destination to give thanks this year.