But many do not know that Carnival Week on Cozumel is one of the most colorful and biggest celebrations in Mexico. It is a week of parades, dance, costumes, music and street carnivals. Almost all work stops and everyone joins in the dancing and celebration. Schools, clubs, and community organizations spend weeks making floats, costumes, and practicing their dances and music. The competition increases every year and the result is evident in the elaborate costumes and floats.
Children are a big part of the celebration.
From the darling four year old in the horse drawn wagon to the hip teenagers, all join in the excitement, until they fall asleep about 2 a.m., watching their parents still dancing. Tourists are encouraged to participate and dance. Some join in the parades, especially those who can really dance or play an instrument. The warmth of the people is never more evident than during Carnival. One of the reasons I decided to build a home on Cozumel is because my family and I always feel safe and welcome, even walking home at 3 a.m.