Taking place in the summer in the village of Ujarras in the central Orosi Valley, this popular event is held in celebration of the chayote - a type of fruit similar to a melon or a squash. Used in a wealth of traditional Costa Rican dishes, this versatile fruit is tasty and wholesome. You can find out all about this important fruit and the fair held in its honor below.
What is a chayote?
Shaped like a pear, rich in fiber and Vitamin C and with a flavor described as somewhere between a potato and a cucumber, chayote is a staple in the local diet and can be eaten raw or cooked.
There are numerous varieties of the fruit, which is largely exported to European countries and known as something of a delicacy abroad.
Why is the chayote so important?
The chayote is not only known for its nutritional benefits but also for the revenue it generates and the jobs it creates in the local market. Thousands of Costa Ricans work in the agriculture industry, cultivating this delicious fruit for both local and overseas consumption.
The Chayote Fair is a national event, attracting thousands of people with all sorts of fun and interesting elements - don’t miss out if you’re visiting during a volunteer vacation in Costa Rica. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Feria Nacional del Chayote.
What to expect at the Chayote Fair
Over three days, crowds flock to the ruins of Ujarras - a centuries-old church thought to be one of the oldest in Costa Rica. Here, every year, chayote growers and exporters organize this bustling community event, which promises fun for all ages.
Music and dance
During the Chayote Fair, performances are given by all sorts of musicians and groups, including symphony orchestras and local music collectives. There are also various dance troupes in attendance, showcasing traditional dancing as well as more modern forms of movement.
Ecological activities
Ecology is a key theme at Feria Nacional del Chayote and a variety of activities are put on each year for people to learn more about the environment, biodiversity, different ecosystems on land and in the sea, nutrition and the importance of caring for our world and keeping it clean.
Cultural events
Every year, a number of cultural groups give presentations and demonstrations at the Chayote Fair, which can be especially interesting to volunteers visiting Costa Rica. Stories of folklore are popular and are given by different folk groups during the course of each day.
Sports
There are sporting elements at the fair, too; there are often displays of sports or martial arts from local groups, and competitions are regularly organized. You’ll be able to witness an adrenalin-pumping mountain bike ride during the event, for example.
Parades
A few parades are held during Feria Nacional del Chayote, including a special evening event in which participants carry torches and candles around the site along a set route. Other parades are colorful and jolly, such as the masquerade and mariachi band procession.
Contests
Among the most popular elements of the Chayote Fair is the contests, held to determine the heaviest chayote and award a monetary prize to the proud winner. Another contest involves the creation of chayote dishes, and the chef with the best-tasting meal is rewarded for their efforts.
Local produce
There are also opportunities to browse all sorts of local produce and goods, including a number of chayote varieties and other locally-grown ingredients, handicrafts, orchids and ornamental plants and all kinds of items pertaining to the agriculture industry.
Feria Nacional del Chayote is an important event, highlighting the importance of this fruit both in terms of diet and culture, and also for Costa Rica’s economy. A celebration of national culture, expert agriculture and community spirit, the Chayote Fair is unmissable for volunteers in Costa Rica.
Extra activities to look out for include traditional ranchero demonstrations and the opportunity to try out all manner of chayote-based dishes, the most popular of which include picadillo de chayote - a spicy ground beef dish served with rice. Pick up some top cookery tips - not to mention a large, tasty chayote - and test your own culinary skills back at your volunteer dorm! You can find out more about volunteering in Costa Rica by downloading our brochure.
