The International Book Fair of Anthropology and History 2024 took place at the renowned National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, located on the iconic Paseo de la Reforma. This museum, known for its 22 permanent exhibit halls, two temporary exhibition rooms, and three auditoriums, also houses the National Library of Anthropology and History. It is a treasure trove of cultural and historical knowledge, inviting visitors to explore the past and make meaningful connections with their heritage.
Each year, the museum hosts this vibrant book fair in its courtyard, where past and present come together. For 2024, the theme was “Cultural Heritage and Sustainability,” with Belize and the Mexican state of Quintana Roo as the guests of honor. The event was packed with activities, including book presentations, panel discussions, lectures, tributes, film screenings, outdoor concerts, and workshops. With more than 90 exhibitors, an outdoor forum, and five tents for exhibits and workshops, the 35th edition of the fair was held from August 8 to 18, solidifying its place as a major cultural event in Mexico and Latin America.
Highlights from the 2024 Fair
One of the main attractions was the presentation of the Antonio García Cubas Award, which honors outstanding editorial work in anthropology and history across nine categories. The fair offered a variety of booths, some featuring traditional Mexican music from Ediciones Pentagrama, known for their wide range of CDs that spotlight Mexico’s alternative music scene.
The folk art and tradition of Mexico were on display at the stand of Cartonería Martha Salvador, which showcased beautifully handcrafted pieces that reflect Mexican creativity and cultural themes. Similarly, Keto Textil and Kuxul Pok’brought embroidered clothing and handcrafted jewelry, emphasizing the rich history and craftsmanship that continues to thrive in modern Mexico.
Although rich in academic content, the fair also catered to younger audiences. For example, Editorial Resistencia featured books like Nievecita and 7 cruces rosas, which sensitively address difficult subjects, such as violence in Mexico, in ways that children can understand. El Colegio de México offered classic titles like Historia mínima de México and the thought-provoking Historia mínima del comunismo y anticomunismo en el debate mexicano. Meanwhile, El Colegio de la Frontera Norte contributed in-depth research titles like Trama de una injusticia and Campamento migrante, which explore critical issues shaping the modern world.
Book Presentations and Performances
Among the most anticipated book presentations was El códice de la cruz-Badiano: Reflexiones desde la ciencia, la historia y la antropología, considered a key work for understanding botany and the influence of indigenous cultures. Another standout was the introduction of Comedia a la gloriosa Magdalena: Estudio introductorio y edición crítica by Alejandro Arteaga Martínez, which brought fresh perspectives on Mexican theater.
Outdoor concerts at the Artistic Forum were a crowd favorite, filling the fair with music and drawing people from all over. Located next to the museum’s café, it was the perfect place to enjoy a break, sip on coffee, and engage in conversation with other visitors.
This lively book fair is more than just an opportunity to discover new literature—it’s a cultural experience that invites attendees to explore the museum’s temporary and permanent exhibitions, creating a deeper appreciation of Mexico’s history and heritage.
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