Playa del Carmen Hosts First FILYC Book and Culture Fair

Playa del Carmen's municipal president, Estefanía Mercado, has announced the city will host the First International Book and Culture Fair (FILYC) from April 3 to 6. Mercado stated that culture is a human right, not a privilege, and the aim is to transform Playa del Carmen into a cultural reference point in the Caribbean.

The fair is part of a series of literary activities in the municipality, designed to encourage reading, culture, and knowledge. Mercado stressed that reading can enhance personal and community development in Playa del Carmen, while also helping to rebuild the social fabric of the city.

Playa del Carmen is already a well-known brand worldwide, with its 'Let's Playa' campaign and a range of attractions offered to tourists. However, Mercado expressed the need for diversification through important sectors such as culture, sports, and entertainment, to attract tourists for more than just the city's natural beauty.

She highlighted the success of cultural events like Janal Pixan last November, and the recently concluded "Carnival del Pueblo" Playa del Carmen 2025. Both events attracted tens of thousands of participants, promoting community spirit and local identity.

Santiago Ernesto Martínez Cuéllar, the general director of the Municipal Institute of Culture and the Arts of Solidaridad (IMCAS), added that the International Book and Culture Fair will feature representatives from a surprise guest country, as well as Cuba and Colombia. The fair will also promote the Mayan language and provide spaces for the Quintana Roo municipalities.

Publishing houses and labels will set up stands in Plaza 28 de Julio, where writers will give talks and interact with locals and tourists alike.