The Mezcal Fair returns to Oaxaca as part of Guelaguetza 2026, giving visitors the opportunity to taste a wide variety of one of Mexico’s most iconic spirits. Here’s when and where you can attend.
When Will the Mezcal Fair Take Place?
The Guelaguetza—which means “to cooperate” in the Zapotec language—is celebrated on the two Mondays following July 16, the feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
As part of the festivities surrounding Oaxaca’s most important cultural celebration and one of Mexico’s largest festivals, several events are held, including the Tlayuda Fair, the Mole Festival, the Alebrije Fair, and, of course, the Mezcal Fair.
The Mezcal Fair will take place from July 17 to July 28.
What to Expect at the Mezcal Fair
Mezcal is known for its labor-intensive, handcrafted distillation process and for being a relatively young spirit, meaning that every bottle produced by different mezcal makers has its own distinctive flavor and characteristics.
Festival attendees will have the opportunity to sample hundreds of mezcal varieties crafted by 110 master mezcal producers.
The event offers much more than mezcal tastings. Visitors can also enjoy:
- 20 gastronomic exhibitions
- Live concerts
- Artistic performances
- Cultural activities
- An artisan exhibition featuring the work of more than 200 regional craftspeople
Where Is the Mezcal Fair Held?
The event takes place at the Oaxaca Cultural and Convention Center (CCCO), located in the municipality of Santa Lucía del Camino, within the metropolitan area of Oaxaca de Juárez.
The venue is approximately:
- 15 minutes by car
- 20 minutes by public transportation
- 45 minutes on foot from Oaxaca City’s Zócalo
The venue will be open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. throughout the event.
How Much Does Admission Cost?
Admission to the Mezcal Fair costs 80 Mexican pesos.
The ticket provides full access to the event from the time of entry until closing each day.
Source: cronica
