This article was published on March 12th, 2022

Same-sex couples are now free to tie the knot in the beautiful state of Yucatan. The state’s congress approved marriage between two people of the same sex in August of 2021, with the law finally going into effect as of March 2022.

This latest legalization comes as a huge step forward for Mexico and LGBTQ+ rights which has long seen both setbacks and victories on the road toward greater equality. Mexico has long been an accepting destination for travelers from the LGBTQ+ community, but Yucatan is now taking it to another level. Same-sex couples can now legally marry in this beautiful Mexican city.

For many years, Mexico has been seen as a country with strong Catholic traditions and conservative values, but it seems that Yucatan is pushing against those norms and embracing progressiveness instead. With this new piece of legislation, Yucatan joins just a handful of places in Latin America where same-sex marriage is legal—a trend that is likely to continue as more states and countries begin to recognize the importance of protecting LGBTQ+ rights.

Mexico has long been a popular destination for gay and lesbian tourists, with its large cities of Mexico City and Puerto Vallarta topping many lists for LGBTQ travelers. Now, advocates hope that same-sex couples will consider visiting or tying the knot in Yucatan.

Gay-friendly destination

Located in southeastern Mexico, Yucatan has long been a gay-friendly destination for travelers. The state capital of Merida is home to many gay-friendly bars and hotels, and many couples have traveled there to have commitment ceremonies at their establishments. The state also hosts one of Mexico’s biggest gay pride parades every year. However, these ceremonies were not legally binding until now, leaving same-sex couples without all the legal rights that heterosexual couples enjoy.

Yucatan boasts one of the country’s strongest wedding tourism industries, making it a prime destination for couples looking to tie the knot. The state is already known as a romantic destination by nature. With its steamy tropical climate and the warm quality of its people, the state is the ideal spot to celebrate love. It’s filled with mystical environments like its crystal-clear cenotes (water-filled sinkholes), which are said to relate to the Mayan underworld of legend. In addition, it has a rich history of stunning pre-Columbian structures, romantic colonial-era buildings, and sleek modern architecture.

But there’s one more way that Yucatan is perfect for weddings: Yucatecan gastronomy is one of the best ways to get wedding guests in a romantic mood.

From delicious salsas to savory meats and seafood, Yucatecan cuisine will tantalize and satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. And now that same-sex marriage is legal in this beautiful part of Mexico, it’s even easier for those in the LGBTQ+ community to enjoy a full slate of services for their big day including fabulous food.

Step in the right direction

With so much to offer, from pristine beaches to posh resorts and hotels, from long-standing traditions to cutting edge culture, this state is sure to become even more popular with couples looking for an unforgettable place to marry.

Nonetheless, this latest development is a welcome step in the right direction for Mexico, which has long been plagued by conservative lawmakers who have tried to block LGBTQ rights.

There is still a long way to go, but progress is progress. And the legalization of same-sex marriage in Yucatan is certainly a good thing for its citizens and their right to marry whomever they want.