The orange fair in Oxkutzcab
The Orange Fair in Oxkutzcab takes place annually in December. It is a vibrant celebration that radiates the essence of this enchanting Yucatecan town. This fair celebrates the region’s love for citrus. During the event, the streets come alive with a burst of vibrant colors. Also, the tangy aroma of freshly harvested oranges. At the heart of the fair, you’ll discover not only concerts that set the town’s rhythm. But also, the captivating exhibition of larger-than-life figures. All of them wear an abundance of locally grown oranges. It’s a unique and zestful experience that encapsulates the essence of Oxkutzcab’s cultural and agricultural richness.
The orange fair in Oxkutzcab: A little history
Held annually in the main park, Palacio Municipal corridors, and Teatro del Pueblo since its inception in 1985, the fair promotes regional agriculture. In recent years, it has drawn visitors nationwide with over 90 stands showcasing agricultural products, restaurants, crafts, and livestock shows, including a variety of tropical and citrus fruits for purchase.
The sweetest one
A highlight of the fair is the eagerly awaited competition for the sweetest orange. This prestigious award recognizes the local producer who presents the orange with the highest Brix degrees, a crucial measure of the fruit’s sugar content, ensuring its exceptional flavor and freshness. Remarkably, in 2015, the winning orange boasted an impressive 16 degrees Brix, a testament to the region’s dedication to cultivating the most exquisite citrus specimens.
The orange fair in Oxkutzcab: The main course
The fair’s crowning glory lies in the mesmerizing displays crafted from oranges and citrus fruits. These remarkable creations include grand arches, replicas of iconic buildings, and even intricate depictions of archaeological wonders, all born from the vivid imagination, creativity, and craftsmanship of Oxkutzcab’s dedicated agricultural producers. This spectacle becomes a reality through the generous contribution of approximately 10,000 fruits donated by local farmers, each proudly showcasing the fruits of their labor.