Looking for an authentic cultural experience in the heart of town?
Mark your calendars for April 10th and 11th, as the Cacao & Chocolate Festival returns for its 4th edition at the iconic Isla del Río Cuale.
This isn’t just a food market; it’s a deep dive into Mexico’s ancient roots and the living traditions that surround one of the world’s most beloved ingredients.
What’s Happening?
The two-day event is designed as a social and cultural exchange. You’ll find:
- Artisan Market: Shop directly from local and regional chocolate makers and traditional crafters. Perfect for finding unique gifts or high-quality Mexican cacao.
- Workshops & Talks: Learn about the origins, history, and traditional uses of cacao in Mexico.
- Special Guests: Meet “Tradicional elders” (Wisdom Keepers), including Abuelo Efrén Hernández (a Mayan guardian of the Yokot’an lineage) and Abuela Chonita (a traditional midwife and herbalist).
- Friday Evening: Catch a documentary screening about cacao, followed by an intimate Q&A session with the experts.
Hands-on chocolate-making workshops and sensory tastings will bring the festival to a rich and memorable close, inviting attendees to fully experience the flavors, aromas, and craftsmanship of cacao in an immersive setting, followed by a live music concert and the awards ceremony for the children’s drawing contest, “Guardianes del Cacao.”
New for 2026: Kids’ Education Space
Bringing the family? This year features a dedicated educational area where children can explore the world of cacao and the biodiversity of the tropical forests where it grows.
Plan Your Visit:
- Dates: Friday, April 10 & Saturday, April 11
- Location: Explanada del Instituto Vallartense de Cultura (IVC), Isla del Río Cuale.
- Tip: If you want to participate in the workshops, pre-registration is required as spots fill up quickly!
Whether you’re a chocolate lover or a history buff, this festival is a beautiful way to connect with the local community and Mexico’s rich heritage.
For more info or to register for workshops:
www.festivaldelcacaovallarta.com
@fiestadelcacaovallarta
+52 984 804 5266
