Events & Festivals

Cultural calendar and seasonal happenings

Chacahua follows the rhythms of nature and Mexican tradition. From sea turtle nesting to Day of the Dead, here's what happens throughout the year.

11 events

🐢

Sea Turtle Nesting Season

Nature
Jul - Dec

Olive ridley and leatherback sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs on Chacahua beaches. Local conservation groups protect nests and organize release events for hatchlings.

Peak nesting: August-October. Hatchling releases typically 45-60 days after nesting.

Peak Bioluminescence Season

Nature
Jul - Sep

While bioluminescence is visible year-round, July to September typically shows the brightest displays due to warmer water temperatures and plankton blooms.

🐋

Whale Watching Season

Nature
Dec - Mar

Humpback whales migrate along the Oaxacan coast. While Puerto Escondido has dedicated tours, whales are sometimes spotted from Chacahua beaches.

🦅

Migratory Bird Season

Nature
Nov - Mar

The lagoon and mangroves become home to numerous migratory bird species. Great time for birdwatching, especially early morning kayak trips.

💀

Day of the Dead

Cultural
November 1

Traditional Mexican celebration honoring deceased loved ones. Communities create altars (ofrendas), visit cemeteries, and share traditional foods. Small community celebrations in Chacahua.

November 1-2. Main celebrations in nearby towns, smaller observances in Chacahua.

Holy Week (Semana Santa)

Religious
~April

Major Mexican holiday week. Chacahua gets busier with domestic tourists. Book accommodations in advance. Good atmosphere but less peaceful.

Dates vary each year based on Easter. Usually late March or April.

🇲🇽

Mexican Independence Day

Cultural
September 16

National holiday celebrating Mexican independence. Small celebrations in the village with music and food. "El Grito" ceremony at midnight on September 15.

Main celebration starts night of Sept 15 with "El Grito"

🙏

Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe

Religious
December 12

Important religious celebration across Mexico. Early morning "mañanitas" (songs) and church services. Community gatherings and traditional food.

🎄

Posadas & Christmas

Religious
December

Traditional "posadas" celebrations leading up to Christmas. Community processions reenacting Mary and Joseph seeking shelter. Christmas Eve and Day are family celebrations.

Posadas: Dec 16-24. Christmas Eve Dec 24 is the main celebration.

🎆

New Year's Eve

Festival
December 31

Celebrations on the beach and in the village. Fireworks, music, and the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight for good luck.

🏄

Best Surf Season

Nature
Apr - Oct

Consistent swells and offshore winds make April to October the best time for surfing in Chacahua. Point break works best with south swells.

💡 Most events are informal — ask locals for exact times and locations when you arrive.