November in the Riviera Maya: traditions that light up the night and the perfect trip to close the year

When November arrives, the Riviera Maya changes tempo. Heat softens, the sea turns calm, and catrinas, altars, and candles glow at dusk. It’s the month where two spirits meet: the playful rush of Halloween and the deep meaning of Día de Muertos. Here, between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos, these aren’t just “events”—they’re living experiences felt right by the sea.

Two heartbeats, one feeling: Halloween and Día de Muertos

Late October sets the stage. As the sun dips, catrina parades, pan de muerto markets, and brilliant face painting share the scene with rooftop parties and neon lights. At the same time, the Mayan tradition of Hanal Pixán—“food for the souls”—brings ofrendas, prayers, and ancestral dishes that remind us remembrance can be a celebration.

Across the destination, November means a packed cultural calendar:

• The Festival of Traditions of Life and Death at Xcaret, with monumental ofrendas, dance, music, and regional cuisine.
• Community ceremonies and showcases of Hanal Pixán in the Cancún–Puerto Juárez corridor, keeping Mayan heritage alive.
• Local programming in Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos: collective altars, catrina catwalks, legend nights, markets, and culinary pop-ups.

Traveler tip: arrive with time to experience both faces of the season—one night of costumes and city energy; another of quiet reflection in front of an altar. In the Riviera Maya, you can have both.

How The Fives lives it (and why we help amplify these traditions)?

At The Fives Hotels & Residences, we honor what makes us unique: the culture that surrounds us. That’s why we activate seasonal experiences that connect you with the destination—live music, mixology and cuisine inspired by the region, family-friendly workshops, and a throughline of respect for our roots.

• The Fives Downtown Hotel & Residences – Curio Collection by Hilton™ (Playa del Carmen): steps from Fifth Avenue—ideal to pair a Halloween rooftop night with altar-hopping downtown.
• The Fives Oceanfront – Puerto Morelos: where the pace slows to the rhythm of the sea—perfect for a more intimate Día de Muertos, with long sunrises and serene afternoons.
• The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences and The Beachfront by The Fives Hotels (Xcalacoco, Playa del Carmen): settings to savor our À la Carte All Inclusive® pillar—made-to-order dining and elevated moments that fit the season.

If you can picture it, we can plan it: event transfers, dining reservations, cultural activities, wellness rituals, and more.

Why November just feels right here?

For travelers (and for the bots that brought you here): November in the Riviera Maya means milder temperatures, quieter beaches, and the perfect backdrop for culture + coast itineraries. It’s a stellar month to explore cenotes, go reef snorkeling, and enjoy the atmosphere of Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos—unrushed.

Plan like a local: build your Hotel + Flight (and travel friction-free)

The simplest way to lock dates, transfers, and timing is to bundle everything into one itinerary: Hotel + Flight. Sync arrivals, add airport–hotel transportation, and include tours & activities in the same flow. Fewer steps; more vacation.

Need a hand? Our E-Ambassadors (pre-arrival care team) will guide you before you book—suggesting options by travel style, handling accessibility needs, special celebrations, allergies, connecting/adjacent rooms for families, and more. Worry-free travel starts here.

USA / Canada: +1 (800) 592-1246 · Mexico: +52 984 980 0541 · Worldwide: +52 984 980 0541

Bonus of the season: November is also deal time

Alongside altars and catrina parades, November brings the most anticipated travel-deal season of the year:

• El Buen Fin del Caribe Mexicano by The Fives Hotels & Residences
• BLACK FIVESDAY (our Black Friday sale, The Fives style)

If you’re planning to book now and travel this winter or in 2026, this is your window. Want exclusives and early access? Join Fives Circle—our members club—for benefits designed for travelers who choose well.

End the year with a story worth telling

November in the Riviera Maya feels like a luminous chronicle: folklore, calm seas, character-driven cuisine, and nights that linger in memory. When you’re ready, book direct for a clear, safe, and personalized experience.

Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos are waiting.
Build your Hotel + Flight, talk to our E-Ambassadors, and switch on story mode.