September brings together gastronomy, culture, adventure, and Mexican traditions in the Riviera Maya. Along with its beaches and cenotes, the destination offers food festivals, Independence Day celebrations, cultural experiences, and sporting events throughout the month.
If you’re planning a trip to the region this September, here are some of the events and experiences to add to your itinerary.
Apapaxoa Festival GastroCultural
September 18th–23rd | Hotel Xcaret México
Gastronomy takes center stage at the Apapaxoa Festival GastroCultural 2026, bringing together chefs, mixologists, artists, and other creative talents from Mexico and around the world.
The program features multi-course dinners, cooking workshops, tastings, mixology experiences, and gatherings centered around food and culture. One of the highlights is a private concert by Mexican singer Emmanuel.
It’s a great way to experience another side of the Riviera Maya through its culinary scene and discover new interpretations of Mexican gastronomy.
Mexican Independence Day celebrations
September 15th–16th | Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and beyond
September is the month of Fiestas Patrias, and the Riviera Maya joins the celebrations with music, traditional food, and events honoring Mexico’s Independence.
On the night of September 15th, public squares and gathering spaces in Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and other destinations come alive for the traditional Grito de Independencia, featuring live music, performances, and fireworks.
Restaurants and resorts throughout the region also host Mexican-themed dinners and celebrations, often accompanied by traditional dishes, mariachi, and Mexican spirits.
Xplor Bravest Race 2026
September 20th | Xplor, Riviera Maya
For travelers looking for an adrenaline rush, the Xplor Bravest Race 2026 takes participants through an approximately six-kilometer obstacle course surrounded by the Riviera Maya jungle.
The race combines challenges that test strength, endurance, and agility with the destination’s natural landscape. Depending on the format, participants can take on the course individually or as part of a team.
It’s a different way to experience the Riviera Maya while putting your skills to the test.
SFER IK Museion
Throughout September | Tulum
Art also has a place on the September calendar. SFER IK Museion, located in Tulum’s Hotel Zone, brings together contemporary art, architecture, and nature in an immersive setting surrounded by the jungle.
Open throughout the month, it’s an interesting addition to a Tulum itinerary, especially if you’d like to complement your beach days with a cultural experience.
Nature is part of the calendar, too
September isn’t only about scheduled events. It’s also a great time to experience some of the natural wonders that are part of the season.
The first days of the month mark the end of whale shark season in the waters of Quintana Roo. Tours typically depart from Cancún, Isla Mujeres, and Holbox and should always be booked with authorized operators that follow established conservation protocols.
It’s also still sea turtle nesting and hatching season along several beaches in the Riviera Maya. In places such as Akumal and Xcacel-Xcacelito, conservation programs allow visitors to observe these natural processes under the supervision of specialists.
A different side of the Riviera Maya in September
From food festivals and Mexican Independence celebrations to jungle races, contemporary art, and encounters with nature, September offers plenty of ways to experience the Riviera Maya.
Come for the food, celebrate Mexico’s most important national holiday, explore the jungle, or simply use the season as an opportunity to discover a different side of the destination.
Which of these September events would you add to your itinerary?