Zipolite looks to the arts to shape its future
MANCHA Festival expands as Mexico’s iconic nude beach embraces culture
Zipolite is preparing a new chapter. Long known for its free-spirited beach culture, the town is now positioning itself as an emerging arts destination with the 2026 MANCHA Arts Festival, set for February 6–8.
The festival, driven by local art gallery 175 Uno Siete Cinco, aims to complement the region’s growing naturist tourism. Zipolite’s annual Nudist Festival — scheduled for January 29 to February 1, 2026, and typically held the last weekend of January or the first weekend of February — generated an economic impact of 26.7 million pesos in 2025. Organizers hope a stronger cultural offering will encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more of the coast.
This year’s expansion is significant: MANCHA will feature work from 30 national and international artists, along with performances, concerts, workshops, and culinary events spread across Zipolite’s hotels, restaurants, and public spaces. Much of the activity will reportedly center on the newly revitalized Paseo del Arte—translated “Art Walkway”—a once-neglected corridor now lined with murals and nightlife.
One of the festival’s standout features is its open and entirely free call for artists, available through December 5. Selected participants will be announced December 19th. “Normally, artists pay to exhibit,” said festival director Cheram Morales. “We want the opposite.”1
For creators interested in taking part, the organizers are currently accepting submissions directly through their Instagram page at @mancha.artezipolite, where the full call for submissions and contact information are posted. Painters, photographers, sculptors, and contemporary artists are encouraged to apply.
Support from local businesses and authorities is growing, with partners ranging from Naked and CAMP to the municipality of San Pedro Pochutla. Together, they’re helping Zipolite broaden its identity without abandoning the spirit that made the beach famous. 🪐
More to explore:
Translated from Spanish using Google Translate. Source: Playa Zipolite. “Zipolite seeks to consolidate itself as an artistic destination with the MANCHA Arts Festival 2026,” November 2025. https://playazipolite.blogspot.com/2025/11/zipolite-seeks-to-consolidate-itself-as.html
Thanks. I’ll be there for both events.