Held annually since 1991, the Cancún Jazz Festival is a weeklong event held in mid- to late May, drawing top jazz musicians from around the world. This is a huge crowd-drawing event, so be sure to reserve tickets early. Prices and venues vary—ask your hotel concierge or call the city’s tourist information office for details.
Since 2001, the Concurso Municipal de Artesanías, a city-wide handicraft competition, has been held annually the first week in November in Cancún’s Palacio Municipal. In addition to showcasing the city’s best artisans, many participants also sell their work just in front of the building. Look for the large white tents—and the crowds—on Avenida Tulum.