Unpack your party suit, practice those moves in the mirror, and get ready to party; the countdown to Cozumel Carnival 2019 has begun! To get you in the party mood we've selected 5 corking carnival close-up photos from last year.

The island's spectacular annual Mardis Gras has some 140 years of history and sees dazzling technicolor processions along Cozumel's downtown seafront. People line the street, dancing with the performers and catching the gifts that are showered on them.

The biggest celebrations will begin with the first Grand Parade along the oceanfront downtown on Saturday, March 2, 2019 and will be continued with the second Grand Parade on Sunday, March 3, 2019. Both parades will be followed by free live music in City Hall Park.

The most spectacular costumes, music and dancing are saved for the final Grand Parade on Fat Tuesday, March 5, 2019, and the downtown area will be packed with multi-colored revellers dancing in the streets and Carnival music booming out across the sea.

Once the parade finishes attention will focus on City Hall Park again, with a concert by 90's Pop Tour and live DJs who are sure to keep the party going into the early hours.

Whether you're visiting or living locally, from babies to great grandparents, Cozumel's Carnival will bring a smile to the face and a sway to the hips, so start planning your costume now!

Find more information and the full program on our Cozumel Carnival 2019 page.

Photos courtesy of Cozumel Municipal Government.