Riviera Nayarit, Mexico - Turtle nesting and release season has begun on the beaches of the Riviera Nayarit and with it comes the 7th Sea Turtle Festival, a family-friendly event set to be held in Playa Platanitos, a small coastal town in the municipality of Compostela, from July 20-21, 2019.

The event is focused on promoting the care of the environment and the conservation of the sea turtle, as well as driving tourism to a community of less than 100 inhabitants, most of whom are dedicated to commerce, fishing and sustainable tourism.

Since its inception in 2012, the festival has grown in scope year after year, with a variety of sports, cultural and artistic experiences continually being added to the array of fun and educational environmental activities.

This year the Playa Platanitos Ecológico association, along with the local population, has worked very hard to put together a festival that's well worth the visit.

In addition to the usual activities, like the turtle camp exhibition and Environmental Tourism Fair, there will also be various sporting events, including a bicycle race, a touristic run, an open water swimming competition, and a surf fishing contest. And, following tradition, a turtle sculpture contest, with entries made from 100% recycled materials; a cultural forum, and the crowning of the 2019 Sea Turtle Festival Queen.

The Environmental Tourism Fair offers workshops and locally made products, along with sea turtle conservation and environmental issues exhibitions. There will also be free entertainment - live music, dance performances, comedians and clown shows - not to mention tons of family fun!

The Convention and Visitors Bureau is extending an open invitation to the general public to visit Playa Platanitos and enjoy the festival. The opening ceremonies take place on Saturday, July 20 at 5:00 pm and the festival ends at 6:00 pm on Sunday. All of the events are free of charge.

Nature, dance, music, traditions, cuisine, warmth, beach and sun are just some of the many things that you'll enjoy in this picturesque village on the Riviera Nayarit. Make plans now to spend the weekend of July 20-21 in Playa Platanitos, and come see for yourself.

For more information about the VII Sea Turtle Festival visit the Facebook event page.