The 42nd annual Santa Fe Fair is drawing crowds this weekend in the mountainous Province of Veraguas. Local agricultural producers are the central focus, highlighting the deep-rooted farming traditions that define the district’s identity and economy.
Farmers from areas like El Pantano are displaying traditional crops including cinnamon, toasted rice, bananas, and cocoa. Many utilize low-chemical, natural growing practices. The event acts as a vital platform for promoting local tourism and sustainable economic development in the region.
Historic Cocoa Production Remains a Community Cornerstone
Among the traditional products, cocoa stands out for its historical, nutritional, and commercial significance. Local producer Leopoldo González explained that cultivating the cocoa bean is a legacy activity for many families. He detailed its journey from farm to market.
“The production of cocoa is a historic activity here, valued for food, medicine, and commerce,” González said. [Translated from Spanish] “We sell it to small local processors who make derivatives like butter and artisanal chocolate.”
The traditional method of making cocoa butter involves extracting seeds, sun-drying them, roasting, and finally cooking them to obtain the natural oil. This meticulous artisanal process continues in many Santa Fe households, preserving a tangible link to the past.
This commitment to tradition finds a ready market. Exhibitor Mari Germinia Pinzón noted strong demand, particularly from international visitors seeking authentic, naturally made regional goods. These buyers actively look for the traditional artisanal chocolate and other derivatives.
Farmers agree that agriculture remains the primary economic sustenance for numerous area families. They also acknowledge a shared concern. Some traditional practices have diminished over time, making events like the fair crucial for their preservation.
Fair Serves as Economic Engine and Cultural Showcase
Beyond agriculture, the Santa Fe Fair brings together artisans and entrepreneurs from across the district. It has consolidated itself as a premier showcase for local economic development. The event directly leverages the area’s recognized natural, cultural, and gastronomic wealth to attract visitors and stimulate commerce.
For the community, the fair is more than just a weekend event. It represents a sustained effort to keep generational knowledge alive while adapting to modern economic realities. The participation of younger generations in these family trades will likely determine the future of these traditions.
Organizers and producers view the fair as a successful model. It demonstrates how cultural heritage can drive tourism and create sustainable livelihoods. The ongoing interest from both domestic and international attendees offers a promising sign for the continuity of Santa Fe’s distinctive agricultural legacy.