Feria de Mataderos in Buenos Aires 2024-2025

Witness the rural life of gauchos, porteños, and migrants who honour the traditions of their ancestors

Best time: March–December (Sundays) | January–February (Saturday nights)

Every Sunday from March to December during the day, and every Saturday night in January–February, Feria de Mataderos (Mataderos Market Street Fair) takes place in Buenos Aires. Mataderos literally means "slaughterhouses." It's a great opportunity to learn about the traditions and customs of rural Argentina, their artisanal crafts, and artwork. Argentinian cowboys and gauchos come from the countryside with shows of horsemanship and handicrafts. Folk bands play music on accordions, traditional bombo legüero drums and folk guitars, and dancers showcase folk performances like zambas danced in pairs.

The event is accompanied with some incredible street food stalls as well. The Feria de Mataderos offers a great market for handcrafted good: hand stitched scarves and ponchos, handmade shoes, nice warm gloves and hats, mate gourds, cheese, fried meat, plenty of sweet treats, wine, stone and silver jewellery, native souvenirs such as a duendito, and other awesome stuff.

Barbeque also fills the air with enticing smells for when you are hungry. In addition, horse races and “carrera de sortija” events take place at Feria de Mataderos. All the participants wear traditional Argentine costumes from the countryside, often in bright colours.

Practical info

What makes Feria de Mataderos a great place for shopping?

Feria de Mataderos is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, offering a wide range of unique, handcrafted goods. Visitors can purchase hand-stitched scarves and ponchos, stone and silver jewellery, mate gourds, and handmade shoes. Additionally, gourmet food products like cheese and wine are popular souvenirs. The marketplace is also home to sweet specialties such as crepes and alfajores, making Feria de Mataderos a one-stop-shop for all your shopping needs.

Why was Feria de Mataderos established, and what purpose does it serve?

Feria de Mataderos derives its name from the old slaughterhouses located in western Buenos Aires, where the fair was originally held. The market serves to preserve the customs and rural traditions of the region, paying tribute to the old country market that used to trade meats in the area. Today, Feria de Mataderos is an essential destination for visitors to immerse themselves in local traditions like pantries from San Antonio de Areco while enjoying delicious food.

What is the schedule for Horsemanship and handicraft shows, and what other activities can visitors participate in?

Horsemanship and handicraft shows are held on Sundays from March to December, during the daytime. Traditionally dressed horse riders from the countryside, horse racing and Carrera de Sortija are some of the highlights of the event. The Feria de Mataderos also features a range of other activities including traditional dancing, music performances, and zambas, a popular folk dance performed in pairs. The fair is an immersive experience into Argentina's rich cultural heritage.

Where can I find the most delicious street food options in Feria de Mataderos?

Feria de Mataderos offers a wealth of fantastic street stalls showcasing a range of street food options. One must-try dish is the thick stew called Locro, made with meat, beans, pumpkin, corn, and spices. Some of the best food can be found on Lisandro de la Torre Avenue, where visitors can indulge in traditional Argentine dishes like choripán and other sweet treats. Feria de Mataderos is a food lover's paradise!

Other than the Horsemanship and handicraft shows, what are some of the other activities that visitors can witness at Feria de Mataderos?

Feria de Mataderos offers visitors an array of activities featuring traditional dancing, music, and other performances. Zambas, a popular folk dance performed in pairs, is commonly seen at the fair. Another highlight is the Carrera de Sortija where riders gallop horseback and attempt to capture a small ring with a stick. Beyond these, the Feria de Mataderos is an unparalleled opportunity to witness Argentine culture and is perfect for visitors interested in its diversity.

External resources