Just on the other side of the federal highway in Playa del Carmen there is a beautiful little park known as “La Ceiba”, or “Parque la Ceiba,” its full name in Spanish.  I’ve written about this park before – Top 5 Places to Experience the Day of the Dead, for example.

The park is very natural, preserving the area’s original vegetation and landscaping; at the same time, trails, playgrounds and other community spaces make the park a central part of Playa del Carmen’s community life, as well as the many cultural events which are hosted there.

 
The following are a few of the features and events to be found in Parque la Ceiba.

Cafe –  There is a nice little out-door cafe which sells a variety of drinks and snacks, and offers a very pleasant, relaxing atmosphere.

Theater – There is an outdoor theater where plays and presentations are made.

Weekly Market – Every Saturday there is a “tianguis” where natural food and local arts and crafts are sold.

Day of the Dead – Every year at the beginning of November, Parque La Ceiba hosts a series of events to celebrate Mexico’s Day of the Dead (which coincides with Halloween but lasts longer and has much deeper cultural roots.)

Recycling Drop-Off – For many expats, the lack of recycling collection in Playa del Carmen (as well as other parts of Mexico) can be frustrating.  This park has a drop-off center making it easier for residents to be environmentally responsible.

Plant Nursery – Besides the natural vegetation, which covers about 75% of the park, there is an area where plants native to the area are grown and potted to be sold.  Residents do well buying these plants because they are the most suited to the area’s soil and climate, and grow very well.

Annual Xcaret Market – Xcaret is a nearby theme park focusing on Mexico’s culture and history; every year they have a market in which they sell out the previous year’s left-over stock.  There are some great deals on very nice clothes!

Many Cultural Events – There are many monthly, annual and one-time events offering things to buy and close contact with the area’s rich culture.

I look forward to posting more about specific events and visits in La Ceiba.  It’s certainly one of my favorite places just to walk around or sit down and relax in a very natural setting while the kids enjoy playing!

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