September 16th - Mexico´s Independence Day
This commemorates the beginning of Mexico's war of independence with Spain. In Tulum, as in every town and city in Mexico the celebration takes place at the town hall ( alcaldía ) on Tulum avenue, where locals wait to her the bell rung and to hear 'El Grito' reenacted by the local government official. Festivities usually include 
mariachi music and dancing. 

September 21 - Fall Equinox
Taking place in September, the fall equinox is one of the best times to visit Chichen Itza as this is the time that the shadow effect takes place where the serpent Kukulcan can be seen descending the steps of El Castillo to join the snake's head at the base of the temple. The best time to arrive is before 5 pm, there will be dancers and music. This time of year can be chilly in the evenings, so be sure to dress accordingly and don't forget your insect repellent. Chichen Itza is surrounded by jungle. Do plan your trip in advance! This is a huge event that draws many visitors from all over the area. 
If you plan to 
spend the night in Piste, 
the nearby town, book well in advance. 
Otherwise you can make 
it a daytrip from Tulum. 

November 1 and 2 - Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead
This celebration dates back to indigenous cultures where the dead are allowed to inhabit the earth once again to enjoy the things they did during their lives. Day of the Dead ceremonies in the Yucatan Peninsula have two major elements: cemetery decoration and the commemorative alter in the home. The food often consists of meat dishes in spicy salsas, a special egg-batter bread ( pan de muerto ), cookies, chocolate, and candied sugar skulls. Many restaurants and hotels will have special events, altars, or dinners for the Day of the Dead.

The Mayan event is known as Hanal Pixan, which means "a feast for all souls". The Mayan version of the Day of the Dead is a blend of Christian and Mayan elements. On October 31st, souls arrive to visit their family and enjoy the festivities. An offering of food is prepared according the the preferences of the honored dead. In the early morning on November 1st, souls of dead children appear and will be received with corn on the cob. While the souls are dining, the family pray the rosary. After the souls leave, the family will eat breakfast together. At midday, an offering of food is made. On November 2nd, the adult souls arrive, guided by candles which have been placed around the house - one for each departed soul, plus extras in case the family has forgotten someone. There is once again an offering of food on this day. Once the adult souls have finished eating, the living family and friends join in the banquet. In the Yucatan, the dead stay for eight days and on the last day, a similar party with fresh food and offerings is given as a going away party for the souls.

May 5 - Cinco de Mayo
This is not the 
Mexican independence day, 
as many people mistakenly believe, 
but rather the celebration of the victory of the Mexican army over the French army at the Battle Of Puebla in 1862. It is primarily a regional holiday celebrated in the state of Puebla, but is also observed in other parts of the country. Small celebrations can be found in Tulum.