TULUM, México — Tulum is set to host its first-ever Mole Gastronomic Festival in 2024, from October 31 to November 2, celebrating one of Mexico’s most cherished culinary traditions: mole. This multi-day event will feature renowned chefs from across the country, showcasing mole’s rich variety and deep flavors in its many regional forms.
David Corona, executive chef at The OGS restaurant, announced during a press conference that the festival will include tastings, culinary workshops, and talks by acclaimed chefs. Attendees can expect a fusion of food and culture with traditional Mexican dance and live music performances, creating a fully immersive experience.
A celebration of flavor and tradition
Mole, a complex dish with over 30 ingredients, embodies Mexico’s culinary fusion, blending indigenous and European influences. During the festival, twelve chefs from different regions of Mexico will prepare diverse versions of mole, highlighting the wide range of regional recipes—from Oaxaca’s black mole to Puebla’s mole poblano—each with its unique ingredients and preparation techniques.
The festival will take place across three main venues. On October 31, the event will kick off at Hotel Kanan with a performance titled Danzantes con fuego, followed by folkloric dance and a live DJ. The second day, November 1, will take place at The OGS Tulum, featuring a Michoacán Folkloric Dance and traditional Son Jarocho music, a lively genre from Mexico’s southeastern region. The festival will conclude on November 2 at El Agavero restaurant, where there will be folkloric dance performances, a cacao ceremony, and another DJ set.
Boosting the local economy in low season
The festival promises to be a cultural and gastronomic celebration and aims to stimulate the local economy during a period of lower tourist activity. Eduardo López, Director of Planning and Strategy at the Directorate of Economic Development, explained that the festival is designed to draw domestic and international visitors, positioning Tulum as a prime location for hosting major events. “The Mole Festival is an opportunity for local businesses to generate additional revenue, directly benefiting their employees and the community,” López noted.
Known primarily for its beaches and archaeological sites, Tulum seeks to expand its cultural offerings and attract a broader audience. The festival, which coincides with Mexico’s Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, offers a unique blend of food, culture, and entertainment.
A star-studded lineup of chefs and sponsors
The lineup of chefs includes prominent figures in Mexican cuisine who will share their expertise and passion for mole through workshops and talks. In addition to the mole-based dishes, festival-goers will have the chance to sample traditional Mexican beverages such as mezcal, tequila, and craft beer. The event has garnered support from local and international sponsors, highlighting the growing importance of such festivals for the region’s economic and cultural development.
An immersive experience for all senses
Beyond food and drink, the festival’s organizers have curated a cultural program to complement the culinary experiences. Music, traditional dances, and pre-Hispanic ceremonies are integral to this celebration, designed to honor Mexico’s flavors and its deep-rooted cultural heritage.
One of the standout events will be the Cacao Ceremony on November 2, which will offer attendees a chance to engage with ancient Mesoamerican traditions. This ceremony honors cacao as a sacred element in pre-Hispanic culture and adds a spiritual layer to the festival’s cultural richness.
The Mole Gastronomic Festival in Tulum 2024 is set to be a landmark event, offering both locals and visitors the chance to experience one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes in a vibrant, festive atmosphere. With its combination of flavors, sounds, and traditions, this festival is poised to become an annual highlight on Tulum’s cultural and tourism calendar.
