Looking for the coolest and best music festivals in Mexico in 2023? Whether you’re an intrepid traveller, a free-spirited wanderer or a Spring Breaker down for a wild time, there are festivals in Mexico that’ll definitely serve up the goods.
One of the best things about Mexico is that, no matter what time of the year you venture down into this slice of paradise, you’ll have no issues finding an incredible music festival to spend your pesos at.
From the hustle and bustle of Mexico City, to the Tulum festival jungles, and back again to the beaches of Cancun, I’ve covered your bases so you can take in the best Mexican music festivals wherever you find yourself.
I’ve listed Tulum as my #1 spot in my guide Where is Hot in January | 20 Warm Places to Visit in January, so be sure to give that a read for some travel inspiration!
1) Zamna Tulum Festival
When: December-January, 2022/2023
Where: Tulum (Various Venues)
“ZAMNA is a powerful name. It belongs to one of the most important people in the Mayan culture. After founding and establishing Chichen Itza, he became a god and announced himself as the son of Hunab Kú, the only god. With an impressive view, ZAMNA is unique in Tulum. It houses the best of all worlds: the beauty of the jungle and the luxury of the services and amenities available every day, 24 hours a day.”
After attending Zamna Festival for two weeks in January 2020, I can attest to its magnitude. For house and techno enthusiasts, there are few festivals in the world that deserve a higher place on your festival bucket list.
Zamna is the ultimate Tulum music festival experience, and I know that their 2022-2023 season is going to be amazing! They bring in top-notch artists from around the world and will collaborate with top brands like Afterlife, Circoloco, Black Coffe, Keinemusik, and Renaissance.
Expect incredible light and sound productions, amazing atmospheres, wonderful performers, and an overall festival experience you’ll never forget. I’ve attended Zamna in both 2020 & 2021, and both times were perfect! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a solid party that often last past sunrise!
2) Sundream Baja Festival 2023
When: May 4-7, 2023
Where: San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico
https://www.sundreamofficial.com
“A WEEKEND OF MUSIC AND ART IN HIDDEN GARDENS BY THE SEA”
Rufus Du Sol needs no introduction these days, as they’ve quickly become one of the biggest and top-selling electronic music groups in the world! After dropping their incredible new album “Surrender” in 2021 and touring the world and headlining dozens of festivals for the past 18-months, it’s safe to say that Rufus Du Sol is on whole other level.
In March of 2022, Rufus Du Sol announced their first ever specially curated festival in Tulum called Sundream Festival, and it was two weekends of incredible music and top notch vibes with the Rufus fans. I was able to attend Sundream and had the TIME of my life. You can read my Sundream Tulum Festival Review for all the details.
Well, the boys just announced the SECOND EDITION of Sundream Festival, but this time they’re bringing the festival to a new destination in sunny Mexico in May – San Jose Del Cabo.
Sundream Baja Festal Line-Up
While tickets and packages are already sold-out, this is another special event that you CAN’T MISS!
The 2023 Line-up includes two sets by Rufus Du Sol (a Live Set & a DJ Set), Afterlife maestros Tale of Us, tech-house legend Michael Bibi, as well as bringing back Monolink for another round.
Located in San Jose Del Cabo (near Cabo San Lucas), this is a Mexico destination festival that guarantees goods vibes, great music, and so much more!
3) Day Zero Festival Tulum
When: January 9, 2023
Where: Tulum
https://dayzerofestival.com/locations/tulum/
https://www.facebook.com/DayZeroFestival/
“A cosmic collision of ancient tradition and forward-thinking electronic music heralded the birth of Day Zero on the final day of the Mayan Calendar in 2012. The result has been six sessions of sonic wonder and convergence of party-people from every corner of the globe around the scion of Damian Lazarus. Deep within the mystical jungle of Tulum, this community of ritualistic nomads gathers before some of the world’s most exciting selectors and live acts for an eighteen hour journey.
Musical voyages stand at the center of the Day Zero experience with its artists acting as the beating heart that carries partygoers from sunset to sunrise. Damian’s careful sonic curation guides this transformational pull, with each performer fitting perfectly into their own destined chapter of this marathon epic.”
I had the pleasure of attending Day Zero Festival Tulum in 2020, and it was truly spectacular! Read my full review here: 7 Reason Why Day Zero Tulum Will Blow Your Mind.
““Despite the wild, lawless feeling that remains in the tree-lined jungle backdrop, no detail is considered too small to help create the event’s atmosphere” – Mixmag
Day Zero is returning to Tulum in 2023 for another round of jungle madness, and it’s a party that will certainly be a highlight of the year! While I wish I could attend this year, I’ll unfortunately be over in Asia – but if I were in North America – there is NO WAY I would miss Day Zero!
Day Zero 2023 Lineup Highlights: Amémé, Bedouin, Carlita, Chloé Caillet, Damian Lazarus, Danny Tenaglia, Dennis Cruz, Jamie Jones, Jan Blomqvist (live), Joseph Capriati, Layla Benitez, Major Lazer Sound System, Major League DJz, Yulia Niko, Zombies in Miami + Special Guest TBA
4) EDC Mexico
Credit: Ivan Meneses
When: February 24-26, 2023
Where: Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, Mexico City
https://mexico.electricdaisycarnival.com/en/
Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas is hands down one of the largest and most badass raves in the world, so it should be no surprise that they’ve taken their stellar production abroad! Insomniac Events is known for throwing some truly spectacular festivals, and their EDC edition in Mexico City is not be missed! What truly makes Insomic Events special though is their amazing company values!
“Our values represent the cornerstones of our culture. Rooted in a rich history and future-focused, we are led by principles that define our decisions and inspire us day after day. We create unforgettable experiences driven by imagination and positivity, where music and art can inspire transformative moments around every corner.
Everything we do comes from a place of love, striving to create safe spaces where people can connect on and off the dancefloor. Our community stands for unity, celebrating and welcoming everyone. No matter your shape, size or color— All Are Welcome Here.
From the stages to the art, we ignite the senses with relentless creativity. We see no boundaries in what we can create, and neither should you. We don’t chase trends, we create culture. We push the envelope to make things that you’ve never experienced before.”
Join the EDC México 2023 Facebook Event for more tickets, announcements, and more!
5) Locus Festival Tulum
Locus Festival Tulum Mexico 2023 Line up
When: March 2-5, 2023
Where: Tulum, Mexico
https://www.facebook.com/locus
https://www.instagram.com/locustulum
LOCUS Festival set to return to bring the biggest D&B lineup to Tulum !
“After a still much-talked-about and truly historic debut last year, LOCUS Tulum is back bigger and better than ever in 2023. This vibe-filled and unique celebration of drum ‘n’ bass culture takes place in the paradise of Tulum, Mexico, from 2-5 March, with the most comprehensive and cultured drum ‘n’ bass lineup North or South America has ever seen.
Established in 2000, LOCUS has long been setting the benchmark for drum ‘n’ bass events and this now annual trip to Mexico is another reason why they lead from the front with a line-up that represents the past, present, and future of drum ‘n’ bass. It is an unrivalled four-day musical culture and travel experience in a sun soaked tropical haven paradise, surrounded by sun beds, towering palm trees and gorgeous jungle greenery.”
Get your one, two or four day passes now at https://www.ticketfairy.com/
6) Holy Ship! Wrecked
When: December 2023
Where: Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya
For EDM fans in North America, Holy Ship needs no introduction, as it became one of the most popular EDM Festival Cruises! The “ShipFam” is a loud and proud group of people who made the annual trip to Florida to set sail on the 3/4 day nautical adventure, and regularly host meetups at various festivals around the world.
In recent years though, Holy Ship has stopped their sailing for now – and the ShipFam all reunite at an all-inclusive party, and in 2023 it’s happening in Mexico (last year it was hosted in the Dominican Republic).
With a star-studded line-up, luxury hotel accommodation, and guaranteed amazing atmosphere – this is the best way to kick-off December!
While it is already SOLD-OUT, if you look HARD enough I’m sure you’ll be able to find a spot in someone’s room.
7) Vive Latino
When: March 18-19, 2023
Where: Mexico City, Mexico
One of the biggest and absolutely wild festivals in Mexico City, and one that locals absolutely adore! The line-up is absolutely stacked, and I could only imagine how amazing the production and atmosphere would be.
“Upwards of 80,000 high-energy music lovers each day swarm Vive Latino, endlessly moving, clapping, singing, and rocking to the beats a huge bill of acts playing a variety of genres, some well outside of the mainstream. Legendary international bands rock on the main stage and up and coming Latin American artists are also prevalent.”
Join the Vive Latino 2023 Official Event for more info!
8) Tecate Pa’l Norte Festival
When: March 31 – April 2, 2023
Where: Parque Fundidora, Monterrey
“The Pa’l Norte Festival in northern Mexico may change its design and style every year, but the slogan “Siempre Ascendente” (Always Rising) remains the motto and spirit of this rock event. A festival that represents the culture, pride, and traditions of Northern Mexico, while promoting the best of Mexican, Latin American and international music.
With this festival, we will make reference to the customs and roots of our city, its entrepreneurial and progressive personality, its industry, its people, its mountains and the modernity that characterizes it.”
In Tecate Pa’l Norte, we care that you enjoy the experience to it’s fullest and we want whatever your musical taste, you find what you’re looking for. And so we have 8 areas that offer all genres to meet the expectations for everyone!”
For the full-line up, view below, but the 2023 headliners include Billie Eilish, Blink 182, The Killers, 5 Seconds of Sumer, Fred Again, Girl Talk, Loco Dice, and SO many more!
Tecate Pa’l Norte Festival Mexico 2023 Line Up
9) Vaiven Festival
Vaiven Festival Mexico 2023 Line Up
When: April 29, 2023
Where: Jardines De Mexico (2.5 Hours south from Mexico City)
A new-comer on my guide to the best festivals in Mexico, Vaiven is bringing an absolutely amazing line-up to their 2023 edition!
With one of my personal favorite acts, Rufus Du Sol, headlining, as well as Tove Lo, Polo and Pan, Bedouin, Flight Facilities, and so many more! This is an incredible day of good tunes in a beautiful venue.
10) Corona Capital Guadalajara
Credit: Corona Capital Guadalajara
When: May 2023 (Dates TBA)
Where: Guadalajara
http://www.coronacapitalgdl.com/
“Corona Capital has grown with its public; created a unique space to gather the talent of emerging bands, acts at the peak of success and legends with consecrated careers, which has resulted in the necessary maturity to expand their horizons and carry out their first day outside of Mexico City. Now, after eight editions in Mexico City, Corona Capital expands to Guadalajara.”
2022 is brining an absolutely massive line-up for two days of music including acts like The Strokes, Blondie, Death Cab For Cutie, Kings of Leon, and many more! Definitely worth heading down to Mexico in May!
While no line-up or dates have been announced yet, Corona Capital Festival should not be missed!
Corona Capital Guadalajara 2022 Line Up
11) Departure Playa Del Carmen
When: January 2023 (Dates TBC)
Where: Playa Del Carmen
https://pollen.co/x/departure-2022-1
“Beneath the stars, along the shoreline of the Mayan jungle emerges a brand new musical experience in 2022”
While it may be a newcomer on the list, Departure Festival is bringing one of the most ridiculously stacked line-ups to Mexico in January 2022. Spread out over 5 days in one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya, guests are going to be blessed with an unbelievable inaugural event!
“Discover 70+ leading international artists, immersive production, wellness and meditation, gourmet food and luxury accommodation in a journey to rediscover the timeless human desire for connection to others and the secrets of the world around us.
Spend your days basking in the Mexican sun, and your nights moving to hypnotic beats beneath the stars.”
*Unfortunately the 2022 edition of Departure had to be cancelled, but I’ve got a feeling Pollen will be back in Playa Del Carmen next year!
12) Genius Loci
When: June 2023 (TBA)
Where: Punta Cabras, Baja California (Mexico)
http://www.geniuslocifest.com/
Surf. Music. Yoga. LOVE.
“The definition of Genius Loci is the prevailing atmosphere, spirit or character of a place. Genius Loci is nestled at a private beach on the sandy plateaus alongside the pacific ocean in Northern Baja. The location is pure magic!
JOIN US THIS SUMMER IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO WAKE UP WITH THE WAVES, SURF WITH THE DOLPHINS, DANCE IN THE SAND AND PARTY UNDER THE STARS WITH YOUR FRIENDS.”
13) Dance With Me Festival
Credit: Art With Me
When: April 2023 (TBC)
Where: Ahau Hotel, Tulum, Mexico
“We are thrilled to announce a very special Art With Me presents Dance With Me Tulum experience!
Our most fundamental human experiences have been linked with music for centuries. Art With Me presents Dance With Me harnesses this power, celebrates the splendor of different cultures, and embraces our beautiful planet while creating unforgettable experiences worldwide.
Set against the familiar backdrop of the beautiful Ahau Hotel and the crystal blue Caribbean sea each night will feature world-class musical programming with special opportunities for guests to connect across the afternoons and evenings through our Breath With Me and Eat With Me experiences.”
14) Ultra Music Festival Mexico
When: October (Future Dates TBA)
Where: Mexico City
“Starting in 1999 in Miami, Ultra Music Festival has expanded to add many other festivals across the globe. Ultra Mexico is a 2-day event boasting the world’s top EDM DJ’s with unparalleled stage designs and top tier production.”
While no official announcements have been made by Ultra for a 2023 edition, I would absolutely expect them to come back to Mexico City!
15) Carnaval de Mazatlán
When: February 2024
Where: Mazatlán
https://mazatlantoday.net/mazatlan-carnival-carnaval-2022.html
“Carnaval is a 5-day celebration leading up to Ash Wednesday (March 1st), celebrated with feasts, dancing, music, and above all, flamboyant and bombastic parades! Mazatlán is home to Mexico’s oldest and largest celebration. The city spends the entire year preparing for the week-long festival and the massive climactic parade that caps it. Here’s just a taste of what’s in store.”
15) Comunité Festival
When: January (Future Dates TBA)
Where: Tulum
https://www.facebook.com/comunitemex/
“The festival returns to the Mayan Riviera to a new, very special location in Tulum – the most special yet. Comunité will migrate its community and a very carefully curated assembly of 25+ Mexican, Latin American and International artists to an amazing paradise to gather in a pristine environment.”
16) Son Jarocho Music Festival
When: February
Where: Tlacotalpan
“In early February thousands of people race to the colonial riverside town of Tlacotalpan to celebrate Candelaria (Candlemas), a religious celebration featuring a magnificent image of the Virgin being floated down the river. For many people, however, the best part is the concurrent Son Jarocho festival, a three-day dance around showcasing traditional Veracruz-style music.”
Mexico Music Festivals Possibly Returning in 2023
With everything going on in the world, a couple festivals have not made any announcements or posted anything lately about heading back to Mexico (but I still wanted to give them some recognition. Be sure to research these festivals and follow their social channels for any updates.
BAHIDORÁ FESTIVAL
When: February
Where: Morelos
A colorful and magical celebration complete with amazing activities, top-notch music, and a truly stunning jungle location. This 3-day event will certainly leave you coming back year after year, and I can’t wait to get there myself someday!
While dates haven’t been officially announced for future carnival celebrations – this is a must if you’re looking for a fun winter escape!
Lights All Night: Puerto Vallarta
When: November 2023
Where: Puerto Vallarta
Lights All Night originated in Texas, and is one of the longest running electronic music festivals in the state – and now they’re heading down to Mexico for some winter sun.
This is another all inclusive experience offering 4 days of resort takeover, DJ sets on the sand, pool parties, club nights, snorkeling, tequila tours, and all food and drink included!
While I’m not sure where exactly I’ll be in November, this sounds like an awesome place to be!
Arena Festival
When: January
Where: Playa del Carmen
“Spectacular venues from Cozumel to Tulum. Sizzling hot DJs. A wild crowd that came to party. Arena Festival is one of the most exciting Playa del Carmen events of the year, and the biggest gay dance party in Mexico. Now in its 7th year, this high-energy festival attracts dance music fans from around the world.
Arena Festival promises an unforgettable week, with a stellar artist lineup and lots of surprises in store for this world-class house music event. Arena Festival will feature some of the planet’s best DJs and producers playing day and night for 6 sun-drenched days in the beautiful Mexican Caribbean. White sand beaches, turquoise waters, and top all star Djs will make Arena Festival a perfect winter getaway in one of the most spectacular beach locations on the planet.
“The festival provides the perfect escape from the cold. With its high-quality nightclubs and beautiful pristine beaches, The Riviera Maya (From Cancun to Chetumal) is the newest ‘IT’ destination for gay and lesbian party-goers,” says event organizer Luis Barba. “We are planning amazing video projections and unique opportunities to extend our beach parties into the night.”
Art With Me
When: November
Where: Tulum
Combining music, arts and culture, Art With Me is an epic music festival held annually in Tulum, Mexico. What to expect? Leading artists and musicians from across the globe, inspiring speakers, relaxing yoga classes, incredible art installations and even seminars teaching the art of mindfulness. Art With Me is a completely life-changing experience from beginning to end. Here you’ll make like-minded friends and have an absolute blast at the same time.
“Art With Me is an international arts, music and cultural festival curated to inspire us to be more connected to ourselves and build awareness about the environmental issues that affect us locally and globally.”
Inception Music Festival
When: Dates TBA)
Where: Cancun
“Cancun is the world’s #1 Spring Break destination; home to beautiful beaches, amazing resorts, and unparalleled daytime and nighttime events. In 2013, StudentCity launched Inception Music Festival: 30 days & 30 nights of headlining talent at Cancun’s hottest resorts and clubs.
Year after year, the minds of spring breakers are hijacked in ways that were never imagined possible. Come with us; let us take you into an exclusive dreamland. From the moment you step off that plane in Cancun, you will become a part of our world…”
Am I missing any epic music festivals in Mexico 2023?
With music festivals popping up all over the world, it’s easy for me to miss a couple of events! Feel free to shoot me an email if you think I need to add any to this list. I do try my best to update my festival articles when I discover new events!
Looking for more music festivals around the world?
I’ve written heaps about the best events, parties, and international festivals all over the world. Take a read through some of the articles below, and start planning your next adventure:
- The 50 Best Music Festivals in the U.S.A | US Festival Bucket List
- Top 20 Music Festivals in Canada To Experience Before You Die
- The 7 Best Music Festivals in Central America To Experience Before You Die
- 37 Music Festivals in California To Keep You Dancing All Year Long
- The 10 Best Music Festivals in the Caribbean To Experience Before You Die
- Top 13 Music Festivals in New York To Experience Before You Die
- The Ultimate Music Festival Camping Packing List
There are no mountains in Tulum. “From the hustle and bustle of Mexico City, up into the mountains of Tulum, and back again to the beaches of Cancun”
You forgot about Deja Voom 2020 in Cancun!
Mexico is not an slice of Central America. Actually Mexico, with USA, Canada and Alaska, belongs to North America. This is not an subjetive opinion, it is a geographical and political fact.
Awesome read. All the music festivals of Mexico in one place. Thanks for sharing this Jones. Looking forward to reading more of these awesome travel blogs.
The San Pancho Music Festival is returning the last weekend in February 2023. A great venue on the plaza for over 100 artists.