This weekend Ley Seca (Dry Law) will be in place in Isla Mujeres and across Mexico due to elections. If you’re in Isla Mujeres May 31st through until June 3rd, find out how the elections May affect your vacation.
So what is Ley Seca?
Ley Seca, or in English - Dry Law, is often enforced in México on election day, some states throughout the country extend this prohibition across the weekend also.
You may be wondering why, and how does this affect tourism in Isla Mujeres, and if it affects you as visitors?
On June 2nd 2024, millions of Mexicans will decide the future of the country, where 500 congressman, 128 senators, 9 governors and the new president will be chosen.
According to National Geographic, this law has its origins in the United States of America, in order to moderate alcohol consumption.
Until 2018, in México, this law would start just 24 hours before and during election day, however, its not a general measure and its enforcement depends on local authorities. With this being said, some states don't use this law, and trust its citizens to go and vote freely.
The first motivation of this law is to get the most people into the voting booths, and with a clear state of mind on such an important day for democracy.
So what can you expect on this day in Isla Mujeres?
The law starts from May 31st at 11:59PM, and will continue through until June 3rd at 10:00AM. During this period of time alcohol sales are prohibited at liquor stores, convenience stores and at supermarkets. However, alcohol sales are allowed at restaurants, hotels, and at local bars that have food services, as well as at beach clubs. We suggest to ask your waiter or host before you sit down in regards to alcohol consumption in the establishment.
You can expect some local businesses will be closed or not open on regular operation hours due to this event. This is may be due to the fact that some of your waiters and hosts will be attending to vote during their usual working hours. Voting is a practice business owners encourage.
Be advised you may be seeing a lot of military and police presence in order to keep an atmosphere of peace and safety for the families attending the voting booths.
Stay tuned to see the results of Isla Mujeres elections!