The National Peach Fair in Mexico is an annual event that celebrates the rich production of peaches in the country and highlights the importance of this fruit in the Mexican culture and economy. During this fair, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of peach products, participate in recreational and cultural activities, and learn about the history and cultivation techniques of this delicious fruit.
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History of the National Peach Fair
The National Peach Fair has its roots in the Calvillo region, located in the state of Aguascalientes , Mexico. Calvillo is known as the " Peach Capital of the World ", due to its long tradition in the cultivation and production of this fruit. The fair originated with the objective of promoting the quality of the region's peaches and highlighting its economic and cultural importance.
The National Peach Fair usually takes place during the month of August, coinciding with the peach harvest season in the Calvillo region. The duration of the fair varies, but it usually lasts for about a week. During this period, the city is filled with life and energy, receiving thousands of visitors from all over Mexico and abroad.
One of the highlights of the National Peach Fair is the exhibition and sale of a wide variety of peach products. Visitors can find everything from fresh and juicy peaches to jams, liqueurs, ice cream, cakes, sweets and other products made with this delicious fruit. Local producers display their products in stands and offer free samples, allowing visitors to taste and purchase the products of their choice.
Peach Queen Contest
One of the highlights of the fair is the Peach Queen Contest. This contest seeks to choose a representative who embodies the beauty, tradition and culture of Calvillo and the peach-producing region. The participants parade in typical costumes and at night, and are evaluated on aspects such as elegance, ease and knowledge about the fruit. The crowning of the Peach Queen is an exciting time and she becomes a prominent figure during fair events and activities.
Cultural and Recreational Events
The National Peach Fair offers a wide range of cultural and recreational events to entertain visitors of all ages, these are the most popular:
- Concerts and Musical Presentations: The fair offers a varied program of concerts and musical presentations that cover different genres and styles. Local, regional and national artists are featured, providing entertainment for all tastes. Visitors can enjoy live music, from traditional Mexican music to contemporary genres such as pop, rock, rancheras , and folk music.
- Folkloric Dances and Ballets: Folkloric dances and traditional ballets are an integral part of the National Peach Fair. Local groups and groups from other regions of Mexico perform on stages specially prepared to exhibit the typical dances and costumes of each region. These presentations highlight the richness and cultural diversity of Mexico, and provide a fascinating visual and auditory experience.
- Handicraft Exhibits: The fair is a perfect opportunity to admire and purchase Mexican handicrafts . Exhibitions are organized where local artisans display their skills and unique creations. Visitors can find a wide variety of handicrafts, such as ceramics, weaving, wood carvings, jewelry, and much more. This is a great opportunity to support local artists and take home an authentic souvenir from the fair.
- Gastronomic Samples: The National Peach Fair is a delight for gastronomy lovers. Food stalls are set up offering a wide variety of dishes and drinks prepared with fresh peaches. Visitors can sample everything from desserts and peach ice cream to savory dishes such as sauces, dressings and stews . In addition, you can also find other gastronomic specialties from the region and the country, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Children's Activities and Mechanical Games : The fair has areas specially designed for the entertainment of the little ones. Mechanical games, carousels and interactive activities are installed for children to enjoy to the fullest. In addition, children's shows, such as puppets, theater or educational presentations, can be organized to ensure that the whole family has options for fun.
- Sports Competitions: For sports lovers, the fair can offer competitions and tournaments in different disciplines. Races, soccer tournaments, basketball, volleyball, among other sports can be held. These competitions provide an opportunity to actively participate and promote a healthy lifestyle.
- Cultural Exhibitions: Cultural exhibitions can be organized that show the history, tradition and cultural heritage of the region. These exhibitions can include photographs, historical objects, traditional costumes, art shows and much more. They allow visitors to immerse themselves in cultural richness and learn about local identity.
As part of the fair experience, visits to the region's peach orchards are organized, where visitors can get up close to the process of growing this fruit. Local farmers share their knowledge and growing techniques, and provide the opportunity to harvest peaches directly from the trees. This activity allows visitors to connect with nature, appreciate the work of farmers, and understand the importance of peach production in the region.
In short, the National Peach Fair is not only a celebration and tradition event, but also a platform to promote tourism in the Calvillo region and its surroundings. The fair attracts visitors from different parts of the country and abroad, which boosts the local economy and encourages the development of tourism infrastructure. In addition, it allows to publicize the natural beauty, hospitality and traditions of the region, inviting tourists to explore other nearby attractions, such as waterfalls, nature reserves and picturesque towns.