The Feria de Tunich returns for its 23rd edition in the town of Dzityá, Yucatan, showcasing artisans from Yucatan, Michoacan, Guanajuato, and Puebla! Dzityá is a true state treasure known for its craftsmanship, with a rich generational tradition in woodworking, stone masonry, and traditional candy making. This year’s fair highlights the incredible talent and heritage of these artisans, making it a must-visit event for anyone interested in Mexican culture and artisan crafts.
What You’ll Find at the Event?
The Artisan Fair Tunich is recognized as the most important artisan fair in the Southeast. The event runs from July 26 to August 4, from 10 am to 10 pm daily. The fair has grown significantly since its inception. The first edition featured 18 artisans, while the 2019 edition saw 124 participants. This year, 140 artisans from Mérida, its districts, Michoacán, Guanajuato, and Puebla will showcase their talents. Attendees can expect to find a variety of products, including items made from stone, wood, filigree, fine jewelry, and textiles.
Entertainment and Performances
The grand opening will feature a performance by the typical Yucalpetén, and over the 10-day event, more than 40 shows will entertain visitors. Highlights include performances by Dzereco and Nohoch, two dance marathons with MVS, the trovadoras del mayab, the inclusive ballet of the municipal DIF, Los Méndez, Ruperta Perez Sosa, Pierre David, Banda Israel, and more.
Gastronomic Corredor: Come ready to eat!
This year, the fair will place a special emphasis on gastronomy, recognizing it as a vital part of cultural preservation alongside craftsmanship. Traditional cooks from the district will lead a gastronomic showcase, and there will be a dedicated area featuring gastronomic items like plates, glasses, containers, and salad bowls made from stone and wood. For the first time, workshops will be held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays to teach the preparation of recado rojo, led by a traditional cook and a local chef.
Insider tip: Be sure to try the dulce de melcocha, a traditional candy made artisanally in Dzitya from egg whites and honey and mixed over coals for 4 hours! It tastes like taffy. Super good!
Meet some of the Artisans:
Transportation and Parking
Free transportation to the fair will be available daily, departing from the Olimpo Cultural Center. Service hours are Monday to Friday from 5 pm to 11 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to midnight. Parking in the area will cost $25 pesos with unlimited time, managed by local community members, which is 5 pesos less than last year.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
To enhance the experience for both artisans and visitors, the fair will offer courses and training on customer service, excellent handling, and hygienic food practices. Additionally, Fomento Cultural Citibanamex will conduct a reading course of popular tales and legends for the district’s children.