A vibrant culinary celebration is set to take over Ciudad del Carmen this November as the city prepares to host the 10th edition of the Festival del Camarón (Shrimp Festival) and the Las Delicias del Camarón gastronomic competition.

The two-day event will be held on November 7 and 8 at the Casino del Mar. This milestone anniversary aims to showcase the region’s rich maritime heritage through a diverse array of shrimp-based dishes, highlighting the cultural fusion of the Mexican coast.

Gabriela Cruz Damas, president of the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac), indicated that organizers are aiming to surpass the success of the 2025 edition. Last year, the festival generated approximately 700,000 pesos in revenue.

“In the 2025 edition of this festival, we estimated that approximately 300 kilograms of shrimp were used. For 2026, we expect to exceed 350 kilograms,” Cruz Damas stated, highlighting the growing demand and scale of the event.

The festival is designed to offer a sensory journey, featuring various preparations that incorporate traditional flavors from across different Mexican states. By utilizing the shrimp as a versatile centerpiece, the event highlights the country’s culinary diversity.

Exhibitors and Competition The 2026 festival will feature 25 exhibitors, with 11 already confirmed. Additionally, the prestigious Las Delicias del Camarón contest will provide a platform for six participants to showcase their culinary techniques and unique recipes to a competitive audience.

Economic and Tourism Impact The event serves as a significant tourism driver for the region, consistently drawing visitors from several neighboring states, including Tabasco, Veracruz, Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Chiapas, and Oaxaca.

Beyond tourism, the festival serves as a vital incubator for the local economy. Cruz Damas emphasized that the event provides a crucial launchpad for small-scale entrepreneurs. By allowing these businesses to showcase their unique offerings, the festival helps establish brand recognition, encouraging attendees to seek out these local establishments long after the festivities conclude.