Quick answer
Puerto Escondido Carnival 2026 took place from February 13 to 15 (Sedetur / Oaxaca.travel): it is a movable event held in February or March, with no fixed annual date, and free admission. KORU RENT operates in Puerto Escondido, so you can book or request a quote for your car by WhatsApp and move freely between the Carnival venues in 2026.
When is the Puerto Escondido Carnival in 2026?
The Carnival does not always fall on the same weekend: it is a movable event held between February and March. In 2026 it ran from February 13 to 15 according to the Oaxaca Ministry of Tourism (Sedetur / Oaxaca.travel), while in 2025 it took place from February 28 to March 2. That 2025 edition marked the Carnival's 50th anniversary, according to El Heraldo de México. So, before planning your trip, it is worth confirming the exact dates for each year.
What activities are there and how much does admission cost?
Where are the venues and what time does it start?
In 2026 the main venue was Foro Costera, in the Bacocho area, with activities starting around 5:00 pm and the theme 'Fiesta de Fantasía' (Fantasy Party) (El Universal). Added to that are the Carnival's traditional venues: Zicatela beach, where the float cars usually set off and where there are concerts; the Rinconada Tourist Corridor, which hosts the Beer Festival; and the Adoquín, the pedestrian walkway downtown. Note: during Carnival, Rinconada is not the quiet zone, because part of the party is concentrated there.
How do you get around and park during Carnival?
What weather to expect and what to bring in February?
February falls in the dry season (November to May). According to Weather Spark, in February Puerto Escondido has highs around 30 C, lows around 21 C, clear skies, virtually no rainfall (near 0 mm) and a sea temperature of about 26 C: rain is very unlikely, but the heat means you must stay hydrated. Bring water and electrolytes, biodegradable sunscreen (reef-friendly), a cap, comfortable sandals or sneakers, an external battery for your phone, cash in small bills and an official ID. Agree on a meeting point in case the signal drops.
“The best Carnival night is not the wildest one: it is the one that ends well, with everyone safe and the car parked where it should be. That is why we operate here, in Puerto Escondido, so you arrive and get back without improvising.”
— KORU RENT
Rent your vehicle for Carnival
Explore KORU's fleet in Puerto Escondido and get a quote by WhatsApp.
Puerto Escondido, your base on the coast
Discover the destination where KORU operates today.
Mazunte and Punta Cometa in a day
Escape to the coast's most famous sunset from Puerto Escondido.
Frequently asked questions
It is a movable event in February or March, with no fixed annual date. In 2026 it ran from February 13 to 15 (Sedetur / Oaxaca.travel) and in 2025 from February 28 to March 2. Always confirm the exact dates of each edition before booking your trip.
A parade of comparsas and float cars, the traditional quema del mal humor (burning of bad mood), the crowning of the Carnival Queen (candidates aged 18 to 25) and the King of Joy, plus free concerts and contests. The program is concentrated in a weekend, not spread over many days.
Admission is free: in 2026 all activities, concerts and contests were free (El Universal / Sedetur). You only need to budget for food, drink and transport. Some private parties or restaurant bills cost extra, but the official program on public streets charges no entry fee.
In 2026 the main venue was Foro Costera, in Bacocho, starting around 5:00 pm. The traditional venues are Zicatela beach (departure of float cars and concerts), the Rinconada Tourist Corridor (Beer Festival) and the Adoquín, the pedestrian walkway downtown.
A vehicle gives you freedom between venues, beaches and your lodging, especially since PXM airport is only 3 km from downtown. For short stretches within Zicatela, walking is best, since there are road closures. Taxis and colectivos are scarce on peak dates, so do not rely on them.
It is a family event; watch your belongings in crowds and never drive after drinking. February is hot (highs around 30 C, per Weather Spark), so bring water, biodegradable sunscreen, a cap and cash in small bills. Agree on a meeting point in case the signal drops.
At KORU RENT we operate in Puerto Escondido today: book or request a quote for your car, van or motorbike by WhatsApp and we deliver the vehicle where you are staying or at PXM airport, with a contract and invoice. We provide support during your rental so you can enjoy Carnival without improvising. We are already expanding along the coast (Mazunte, Zipolite and Huatulco). Confirm insurance, deposit and fees with KORU before booking.. The KORU Team.