The titular fairs of the different towns are good opportunities to observe
Mayan culture, customs, 
cuisine, music,
dance, and religious observances. There is a parade opening day, and various
activities and expositions depending upon the town. If you plan to visit
Cobán during Holy Week, the Half Marathon, or the Folklore Festival
/ Fair, it is highly advisable to book hotel reservations in advance.
January 20-25 Rabinal B.V. Fair. See the only precolombian theatre
show left in both Americas: A sad piece about a rebellious King with Maya-Achí
music and vivid dance.
January 22-25 Tamahú A.V. Fair
May 1-4 Santa Cruz A.V. Fair. See the dance of the Guacamayos.
May 4-9 Tucurú A.V. Fair
2nd or 3rd Sunday in May - HALF MARATHON
- this 21 km race from Cobán to Carcha and back attracts world-class
contestants. Entrance fee of Q50 can be paid at any bank.
June 10-13 Purulha B.V. Fair
June 21-24 Chamelco A.V. Fair
June 24-29 Carchá A.V. Fair
July 20-25 Cubulco, B.V. Fair: See the Palo Volador, where two drunk
men spiral down a ritual pole
July 21-26 San Cristóbal A.V. Fair
Last week July Cobán - FOLKLORE FESTIVAL
- the festival includes examples of indigenous 
handiwork; typical cuisine; and Mayan ceremonies, music and dances. The
culmination of the festival on Saturday evening is the election of Reina
Rabin Ahau (Daughter of the King) from contestants representing all the
Mayan towns in Guatemala. Mayan customs, traditions, costumes and music
are presented. Entrance fee Q50 (seats) or Q 40 (stands), and reservations
must be made in advance with Prof. Marco Aurelio Alonzo at 951-1709 or 951-1657.
August 1-6 Cobán A.V. Fair
August 11-16 Tactic A.V. Fair
August 22-28 Lanquin A.V. Fair
First week December - COBÁN ORCHID EXHIBIT
- a vast exhibition of the finest orchids contributed by collectors
from all over Guatemala. Held in the convent (next to the cathedral) Entrance
fee Q2.
Stuff to do of an
afternoon in Cobán
Full day trips out of Cobán
Several days trips out
of Cobán
How to get to … (bus
schedules)
Cobán city map