Mérida’s Historic Center Draws Bigger Crowds, but Sales Remain Low

Mérida, Yucatán — More visitors than usual passed through Mérida’s historic center over the weekend, but many merchants said sales remained low as families tighten spending ahead of the new school year.

A tour of the downtown district showed noticeably more foot traffic than on previous days, including some weekdays. With classes about to resume, however, many families are directing their money toward school supplies, leaving less for other purchases.

Market vendors have said this time of year is typically slow, as households arrive with expenses already accumulated from graduations, vacations, and the start of the school cycle. Sellers of fresh produce, including fruit, vegetables, and meat, reported steady demand but said overall sales have declined.

Even those who might normally benefit from hot weather are affected. Gregorio Ramírez Tep, a street ice cream vendor, said demand has been weaker than expected: “It’s a bit slow. I haven’t sold much in the morning. At this time of year, everyone is already tapped out, and people prefer soft drinks.”

The biggest crowds were concentrated at special events. The Olimpo Cultural Center hosted the fifth Festival of the Serpientes over the weekend, and the second Festival of the Book of the Southeast was held outside the venue, attracting people interested in reading and wildlife.