Pride Month in Puerto Morelos: Events, LGBTQ+ Community, and the Tradition of Oaxaca’s Muxe Culture
June is Pride Month around the world, and here in Puerto Morelos, it’s an opportunity to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the vibrant community that makes our town such a welcoming place to live and visit.
Whether you’re a local resident, a visitor exploring the Riviera Maya, or a member of the LGBTQ+ community looking for a welcoming destination, Puerto Morelos offers a growing number of events and businesses that embrace the values of respect, visibility, and belonging.
Pride Comes to Puerto Morelos
On June 13, Puerto Morelos hosted its annual Pride celebration organized by the Municipal Department of Inclusion (Movimiento de Inclusión). The event featured the “Contra la Marea” Pride March, a colorful parade that brought together residents, families, allies, and visitors in a public celebration of diversity and equal rights. Participants marched through town before gathering at Parque Fundadores for an evening of community activities. The event also included a crowd-favorite High Heel Race, drag performances, music, and live entertainment. The celebration highlighted Puerto Morelos’ commitment to creating a community where everyone can live openly and authentically.
Pride Month Specials Around Town
Celebrating Pride isn’t limited to a single day.
Throughout June, local restaurant Yum Yum Wok is serving its colorful Rainbow Noodles, adding a festive and delicious way for locals and visitors to show their Pride spirit.
For those looking to continue the celebration, The Red Room at Como Quieras Quiero will host a Pride-themed night on Saturday, June 20, featuring drag entertainment, DJs, dancing, and an energetic late-night atmosphere.
These events demonstrate how local businesses are helping create welcoming spaces where everyone can come together to celebrate community and self-expression.
Puerto Morelos and Inclusive Tourism
Puerto Morelos has long been known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, vibrant local culture, and welcoming residents. Unlike larger resort destinations, visitors often find a stronger sense of community here, where local businesses, cultural organizations, and residents work together to create an environment that feels inclusive and authentic. Lola y Moya is the only certified inclusive restaurant in all of Puerto Morelos, so be sure to give them some love this month!
As travelers increasingly seek destinations that embrace diversity and inclusion, Puerto Morelos continues to grow as an LGBTQ+-friendly destination within the Riviera Maya.
A Mexican Tradition of Gender Diversity: The Muxe of Oaxaca
When discussing Pride Month in Mexico, it’s also worth recognizing that gender diversity has deep cultural roots within the country.
Among the Zapotec people of Oaxaca exists the longstanding tradition of the Muxe (pronounced “moo-shay”), a recognized third-gender identity that has existed for generations. Muxes are individuals assigned male at birth who may adopt aspects of traditionally feminine social roles while maintaining a distinct cultural identity within Zapotec communities. In many communities, particularly in Juchitán de Zaragoza, Muxes have historically been recognized as an integral part of society and are often respected for their contributions to family and community life.
The Muxe tradition predates modern discussions about gender identity and reflects the diversity of cultural perspectives that have existed throughout Mexico’s history. While experiences vary by individual and community, the tradition serves as an important reminder that gender diversity is not new—it has been part of the social fabric of Indigenous cultures in Mexico for centuries. The touching 2024 Netflix series “El Secreto del Río” – translated to English as “The Secret of the River” – gives a glimpse into the culture and we think it’s well worth a watch!
Celebrate Pride in Puerto Morelos
Pride Month is about more than parades and parties. It is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, support local businesses, learn about different cultures and identities, and build a community where everyone feels welcome.
Whether you’re enjoying Rainbow Noodles, attending a drag show, cheering on participants in the High Heel Race, or simply spending time with friends and family, Pride Month reminds us that Puerto Morelos is strongest when everyone has a place to belong.
