San Cristóbal de las Casas is preparing to welcome hundreds of visitors to the sixth edition of the National Cacao Festival, an event that celebrates Mexico’s rich chocolate tradition. From August 31 to September 2, the center of this beautiful colonial city will transform into a showcase of cacao culture, offering a unique experience for chocolate lovers and Mexican tradition enthusiasts.
This festival, which has become one of the most anticipated events in Chiapas, will feature 50 exhibitors, mostly producers from Soconusco, Palenque, and Pichucalco, regions recognized for the quality of their cacao. Attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, from tasting different cacao products to interactive workshops and cultural exhibitions.
The History and Culture of Cacao in Mexico
Originating from Mesoamerica, cacao has a deep legacy that has influenced the history and culture of Mexico. Over 3,000 years ago, the Olmecs were the first to discover and cultivate cacao, preparing a beverage that would later be adopted by other civilizations such as the Mayans and Aztecs. For these cultures, cacao was not only a food but also a symbol of abundance and a sacred element in religious rituals.
The Mayans used the cacao pod to make a special drink, and the Aztecs perfected the recipe, creating “techocolat,” a beverage reserved for the elite. With the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century, cacao was brought to Europe, where it quickly gained popularity, transforming into the chocolate we know today.
San Cristóbal de las Casas: Epicenter of Mexican Cacao
Known for its colonial charm and vibrant cultural scene, San Cristóbal de las Casas becomes the perfect setting for this festival. Rogelio Pedraza Jiménez, director of the Mexican Cacao Academy, highlighted the importance of this event in promoting cacao culture in Mexico. “This festival is a meeting point for producers and consumers, where the history, effort, and passion behind each cacao bean are celebrated,” he noted.
The central park of San Cristóbal, in front of the San Cristóbal Museum (MUSAC), will be the heart of the festival. For three days, attendees can explore a variety of cacao-derived products, from artisanal chocolates to natural cosmetics. Additionally, the festival will offer a series of workshops and educational forums where experts will share knowledge about cacao cultivation, production, and cultural significance.
A Meeting of Flavors and Traditions
Visitors will be able to purchase unique products directly from the producers, who will be present to share their techniques and traditions. Participating municipalities from Chiapas include Huehuetán, Tuxtla Chico, Tapachula, Mazatán, and the Selva Region, as well as guests from other states such as Tabasco and the State of Mexico.
Each day of the festival will be filled with activities ranging from culinary demonstrations to exhibitions of cacao-related crafts. This event is ideal for families seeking a rich and delicious cultural experience, where they can learn about the fine cacao transformation process and participate in the celebration of one of Mexico’s oldest traditions.
Don’t Miss the Festival: Important Details
Mark your calendars for August 31, September 1, and 2. The festival will begin at 9:00 a.m. and extend until 7:00 p.m., offering a full day of activities for all ages. Admission is free, and a large turnout of both local and tourist visitors is expected.
Source: La Revista del Sureste
