Festival · Ocosingo, Chiapas
Feria del Queso de Bola, Ocosingo
The Feria del Queso de Bola fills Ocosingo's Parque Central each August. In 2026 it was held on 16 August, with free entry. Producers sell their cheese direct, and there are tastings, guided catas, cooking workshops and contests. The 2027 date has not been announced.
- When
- August
- 2026
- 16 August
- Entry
- Free
- Where
- Parque Central, Ocosingo
Dates
The next dates have not been announced yet. It last ran 16 Aug 2026.
The Cheese
Queso de bola de Ocosingo is made by hand from cow's milk by farming and Indigenous families in the municipality. It is a ball of soft double-cream cheese inside a firm outer layer, and at the fair you will also find fresh and aged cheeses flavoured with chillies, spices and herbs.
What Happens
The Parque Central becomes a food show, with producers selling straight to visitors. You can taste, learn how the cheese is made, watch contests that judge quality, presentation and flavour, and join catas led by local experts and cooking workshops built around queso de bola. The cultural programme has marimbas, regional dance, wind bands, community theatre and a crafts show of Tseltal textiles, embroidery and pottery.
Entry is free. The town council runs the fair and says it has signage, disability access and safe spaces for children and older people.
Ruta del Queso
Ocosingo's municipal tourism office also runs a community tourism Ruta del Queso, visiting farms and ranches where queso de bola and Queso Chiapas are made. In 2025 it ran on 9 and 10 August. Ask the office for current dates on 919 161 0187 (also WhatsApp) or at [email protected].
Where to Stay near Ocosingo
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Questions People Ask
When is the Ocosingo cheese fair?
In August. In 2026 it was held on 16 August in the Parque Central. The 2027 date has not been announced.
What is queso de bola?
A cow's milk cheese from Ocosingo, Chiapas: a ball of soft double-cream cheese inside a firm outer shell, made by hand by local families.
Can you visit queso de bola makers?
Yes, on the Ruta del Queso run by Ocosingo's municipal tourism office, which visits farms and ranches. Call 919 161 0187 for dates.
Official site: visitmexico.com/actividad/450/feria-del-queso-de-bola. Dates, hours and prices checked 22 October 2026; confirm on the official site before you travel. See all cheese festivals.