Rock in Río approaching

RÍO LAGARTOS, YUCATÁN – Have you been to (or even heard about) Río Lagartos? If not, you might want to start by reading my article here: http://www.theyucatantimes.com/2014/04/a-long-weekend-in-rio-lagartos/

Coming up on August 16th is the 4^th edition of the popular Rock in Río festival – which could be just the reason to plan a first visit if you’ve never been, or a return visit if you have.

After three successful years, this 4^th consecutive event hopes to introduce more people to the touristic pleasures and natural beauty of the Río Lagartos area, while at the same time raising awareness of the need to conserve and protect the natural resources through music and culture. 

The full name of the event is the Festival of Music and Nature – Río Lagartos – shortened to Rock in Río, and each year, the event has had an ecological theme; this year, it will highlight the problem of garbage polluting the ría (estuary) and the dangers caused to the ecosystem. Personnel from the ecological reserve will be cooperating to provide information and resources.

Besides a plethora of regional bands performing, the festival will also feature an exhibition of paintings and photographs, and work by local artisans. There will also be an area for young people to utilize for cultural expression.

The event takes place at the natural spring and swimming hole known as Balneario Chiquilá, on the edge of the town of Río Lagartos, and is 100% free to attend.

The festival is made possible by the sponsors, which include businesses in the town of Río Lagartos and the city of Tizimín, as well as local politicians and the town government.

The musical line up this year includes Kayaroots, Kiabeth, Ruta 42, Calavera, No Canta, Suburbanox, Up the Irons, and Forgotten Son.

A fishing tournament will take place the same day. Registration fee is $750 pesos per boat (hire your own boat and captain) including a supply of beer to keep you cool. Prizes will be given to the top three catches, with a special prize for the largest fish. Free fish frying will also be available after the tournament to cook your catch, accompanied by live music from “Wicho y sus costeños.”

If you’re thinking of going, and looking for a place to stay, the Hotel Tabasco Rio (http://www.hotelriolagartos.com/) is offering special rates for attendees at the festival.

There’s more information about the festival (in Spanish) on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FestivalRockInRio