Catamarca’s National and International Poncho Festival draws crowds

The 55th Fiesta Nacional e Internacional del Poncho is taking place in Catamarca until Sunday, 26 July, showcasing the province’s diverse handicrafts. Artisans from the Calchaquí Valleys, the Puna, Andalgalá, Ancasti and other regions exhibit woven goods, ponchos, jewelry in rodocrosite, leatherware and wooden kitchen tools, highlighting traditional techniques and natural fibers.

The programme’s final weekend features music and dance on the Escenario Mayor, including performances by Jorge Rojas, Carafea and La Konga, as well as a commercial sector with more than 40 stands offering design clothing, accessories, décor, ceramics and regional food products. Visitors can also enjoy gastronomy, tourism presentations and audiovisual shows.

A weather bulletin from the local Environment Secretariat forecasts mild, dry conditions for the closing days: minimum 10 °C, maximum 21 °C on Saturday and 11‑22 °C on Sunday, clear skies and light northeast winds, with no rain expected. The favorable forecast supports attendance at the crafts fair, concerts and the market.

The festival aims to promote Catamarca’s cultural identity, generate economic activity for local producers and attract tourists during the winter season.