FESTIVAL SAN MIGUEL ARCANGEL

From September 21-29 2015 Cozumel celebrates one of its most important religious festivals honouring Saint Michael or San Miguel Arcángel who is the patron saint of Cozumel hence the name of the capital of the island San Miguel de Cozumel. In 1526, Francisco de Montejo, conquered Cozumel, representing the King of Spain, and gave the island the Christian name of San Miguel de Cozumel. Cozumel has since honored San Miguel Arcángel as its patron saint since 1848.

The local people take part in daily colourful processions during this week dressed in their traditional huipiles and there are many stalls set up selling local crafts and delicious foods from the region. On the last day of the festival the local fisherman have a procession from the centre to the pier carrying an image of San Miguel where they then board a boat. The locals accompany the fishermen in other boats and throw flowers into the ocean as they sail. Its a very old and beautiful tradition well worth taking part if you get the chance.