The board of directors of the San Cristóbal de Las Casas Lions Club and the coordinator of the 156th annual Spring and Peace Fair, 2026, announced that registration is now open for the traditional Judas effigy making and burning contest, held every Holy Saturday in the colonial city of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, in the Highlands region of Chiapas.
In a statement, the organizers reported that the 2026 Judas Effigy Making and Burning Contest will take place on Holy Saturday, April 4, 2026, and is currently scheduled to be held in the city’s Cathedral Plaza. There, the effigies created by local artisans and artists will be displayed and judged by a panel of experts.
They also stated that the theme of the contest is open, as long as it does not offend or harm the morals of others. The originality and finish of the entries will be judged. The pieces must be between 1 meter and 2.5 meters tall, with a maximum width of 1.5 meters, including bases and decorative elements.
“The use of materials that facilitate burning, such as clothing, plastic, metals, wood, and leather, is permitted, but the use of highly explosive or hazardous materials is strictly prohibited,” they stated.
Finally, they announced that the prizes for the winners will be as follows: first place, 19,000 pesos; second place, 13,000 pesos; and third place, 8,000 pesos.
Registration will be open from 10:00 a.m., and more information can be obtained at the Lions Club facilities or from the fair’s organizing committee. The public is also invited to witness the burning of the effigies next Holy Saturday and to enjoy the 2026 Spring and Peace Fair.
The organizers emphasized the importance of following the contest rules to avoid disqualification and ensure the event’s safety.
Source: oem
