Carnaval de Bahidorá
Carnaval de Bahidorá has received awards for its sustainability practices, and is a shining example of how environmental responsibility can benefit the local community.
Chosen for: Preserving Culture and Driving Diversity.
This boutique Mexican festival, located in the stunning Las Estacas natural ecotourism park, might be the global festival circuit’s best kept secret. Taking place in February each year, Carnaval de Bahidorá is an annual, three-day festival in the state of Morelos, south of Mexico City. The turquoise waters of the Yautepec River and the lush flora of the Sierra de Montenegro natural reserve offer a dreamlike setting to enjoy sets from international electronic artists like John Talabot and Soichi Terada, while also providing a platform for a roster of cutting-edge Latin American acts.
The festival grew out of a series of underground parties in Mexico City, and the eclectic, innovative line-ups reflect this intimate, grassroots ethos. The multi-stage setup means the music flows around the clock, though those who can tear themselves away from the dancefloor will find a host of outdoor activities to enjoy, including swimming, sunbathing, kayaking and yoga. An inviting wellness schedule offers meditation, massages, sound therapy and cacao ceremonies, and contemporary art is showcased in the form of an outdoor exhibition of installations made by multidisciplinary artists. No trip to Mexico would be complete without indulging in the country’s famed cuisine, and Bahidorá’s fresh approach to food culture is underscored by an expansive gastronomical programme.
Respect for its local area is reflected in Bahidorá’s sustainability strategies, which were recognised by the Green Music Initiative in 2018, making this the the first Mexican and Latin American festival to receive this commendation. Last year, Bahidorá’s commitment to environmental responsibility was also acknowledged by the British Council as part of the Circular Cultures sustainability project, promoting meaningful cultural exchange between Mexico and the UK, and paving the way for sustainable festival practices in Mexico.
Carnaval de Bahidorá will take place at Las Estacas in Morelos, Mexico, on 17-19 February 2023.
