La Campechada 2024 in Puerto Rico

La Campechada is an annual celebration of Puerto Rican art and culture, bringing together a diverse array of artists, performers, musicians, actors, and puppeteers. Designed to educate and inspire, this vibrant art fair transforms the streets into stages for poetry, dance, music, and live art demonstrations. Typically held in May or November, La Campechada is the largest art fair in Puerto Rico.

Location

While it is most frequently hosted in San Juan, the event also travels to other towns, spreading its cultural impact across the island. In 2024, it took place in Santurce, an area within the township of San Juan.

Schedule of Events

La Campechada features highlights such as art, book, and crafts fairs, along with live music, theater performances, and interactive workshops. Guided walks and drawing sessions led by artists enhance the experience, making art accessible to all. A key feature is the selection of one artist by judges to represent the year’s honoree through a creative interpretation.

History of the Festival

Named after José Campeche, the island's first renowned visual artist, the event celebrates Puerto Rican art and honors an iconic or historical figure each year. Since its inception in 2011, La Campechada has spotlighted significant artists like José Campeche y Jordán, Francisco Oller, Rafael Tufiño, Myrna Báez, and Elizam Escobar. It has also honored figures from other disciplines, such as musician Juan Morel Campos and writer Abelardo Díaz Alfaro, inspiring future generations of Puerto Rican creators through their legacy.