Dzityá Celebrates 25 Years of Tradition and Art in Mérida

Amid stone, wood, flavor, and tradition, the Mérida community of Dzityá is preparing to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Tunich Artisan Fair. This iconic event has become one of Yucatán’s most important summer cultural and tourism experiences, bringing together the talent, creativity, and identity of local communities in a single venue. Mérida Mayor Cecilia Patrón Laviada extends a formal invitation to residents and visitors alike to discover this special anniversary edition, taking place from July 24 to August 2, 2026.

The Yucatecan capital is renowned both nationally and internationally for its safety, the warmth of its people, and the living traditions found throughout its neighborhoods and rural communities. It is in these communities that a strong identity rooted in Maya heritage, ancestral culture, and generations of artisanal knowledge continues to thrive—nowhere more so than in Dzityá, a town celebrated for the craftsmanship that has brought it international recognition.

The meaning of Tunich and the legacy of Dzityá

For ten consecutive days, from noon to 10 pm Monday through Friday and from 11 am to 11 pm on weekends, this sub-municipality north of Mérida will become a hub of regional cuisine, music, and traditional arts. The official opening ceremony is scheduled for Friday, July 24, at 8 pm, marking the beginning of a celebration that pays tribute to some of the region’s oldest and most treasured crafts.

The word Tunich, which means “stone” in the Maya language, directly honors the meticulous stone carving and wood sculpting traditions that have defined Dzityá for generations. These crafts have long been a source of pride and prestige for the community.

For this landmark edition, the fair will feature up to 150 artisan exhibitors. Visitors will be able to admire and purchase one-of-a-kind works carved from stone and guayacán wood, as well as traditional textiles, fine jewelry, handwoven hammocks, pottery, regional sweets, and artisanal liqueurs.

Another major attraction will be the Artisan Pavilion, a must-see space featuring 24 guest artisans from across México, bringing new artistic techniques, crafts, and culinary traditions from other regions of the country.

Yucatecan cuisine and summer entertainment

The charm of the Tunich Fair extends well beyond its handcrafts. A vibrant food corridor will showcase the flavors of Yucatán, allowing visitors to sample a wide variety of beloved local treats while exploring the exhibition grounds. Expect classic favorites such as marquesitas, shaved ice desserts, elotes, traditional fried snacks, and authentic regional dishes representing the rich culinary heritage of Yucatán.

The cultural and entertainment program has been designed for the whole family, featuring children’s shows, regional comedy performances by local talent, live music, and folkloric dance presentations led by the acclaimed Mérida City Hall Folkloric Ballet. These are but a few reasons why the Tunich fair continues to strengthen Dzityá’s reputation as one of the most vibrant cultural destinations of the summer season.

Free transportation to Dzityá from Mérida

To make the event more accessible to residents and visitors without their own transportation, municipal authorities will provide a completely free shuttle service. Buses will depart daily from Plaza Grande in Mérida’s historic center and travel directly to the fairgrounds in Dzityá, with departures scheduled every hour. For those arriving by car, the organizing committee will coordinate eight public parking areas near the event venue, ensuring a convenient, orderly, and safe arrival experience.

Attending the 25th anniversary of the Tunich Artisan Fair is the perfect opportunity to discover the creative heart of Yucatán, support local artisans through fair trade, and take home a unique piece of art infused with history, culture, and tradition.

By Ayuntamiento de Mérida (the Mérida City Council)

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A Tour Through the Stalls of the Tunich Fair

In 2026, the Feria Tunich is proudly celebrating its 25th anniversary, and cementing its reputation as one of the largest and most vibrant showcases for master craftsmanship in all of southeastern México. Held annually in the community of Dzityá (located just on the northern outskirts of Mérida), this fair is an absolute must-visit.

While there is nothing quite like wandering the lively stalls in person, here is a preview of the unique treasures, flavors, and artisanal wonders that regularly define the Tunich experience.

Stone and wood crafts. Dzityá, home of the Tunich Fair, is best known for its carved stonework and handcrafted wooden pieces, both carved and turned on a lathe. You’ll find everything from tortilla holders to furniture, fountains, and intricate sculptures, all at artisan prices.

Embroidery and knitting. Handkerchiefs, towels, dresses for girls and dolls, guayaberas, dresses, hipiles and ternos, handbags, hair accessories, and much more—if it can be embroidered or woven, chances are you’ll find it here.

Traditional toys. Handmade dolls and classic toys like spinning tops, kimbombas, baleros, and other wooden favorites, along with artisanal versions of games like Chinese checkers, checkers, and chess. In past years, vendors have even brought collectible figures and action figures!

Glass, clay, and ceramics. Since the Tunich Fair welcomes guest artisans from across México and abroad every year, you’ll often come across stalls selling pottery, decorative pieces, cookware, and accessories made from these materials.

Henequén and palm crafts. Bags, tablecloths, hats, figurines, hand fans, and even footwear made from traditional local fibers.

Products from the Yucatán farmlands. From personal care products made with honey and aloe vera to a huge variety of habanero and xcatic hot sauces in different flavors and spice levels, plus cacao products, horchata mixes, honey, and more.

Hammocks. If the Yucatán summer heat has you dreaming of a new hammock, you’ll find options here for every taste and budget.

Plants. A wide selection of ornamental plants as well as fruit trees and saplings.

Jewelry and accessories. Traditional filigree alongside more modern styles, made using a variety of materials and techniques.

Sweets and local snacks. Like any good fair, Tunich offers plenty of food options to choose— from artisanal sweets brought in from other Mexican states to marquesitas, machacados, bolis, popsicles, churros, and more, plus plenty of food stands and seating areas for families to gather and enjoy together.