Sunday in Buenos Aires

Written by AlyseInWonderland, USA, February 2011

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Good Place to Shop, Popular with Locals, Tip - When to Go, Market, Plaza / Square

Comment from AlyseInWonderland

In Buenos Aires, as with many Latin American and Spanish cities, Sunday is a day of rest where many shops and businesses are closed and people spend their time relaxing or barbecuing asado with their families and friends. However, San Telmo’s Plaza Dorrego on Sunday is quite the opposite of a quiet day at home. The neighborhood is bustling with thousands of locals and tourists alike who come to peruse more than 270 market stands.

This Sunday market, more commonly known as the Feria de San Pedro Telmo, includes varying antiques, knickknacks, old and rare books, jewelry, and crafts, as well as tango dancing and bandoneón players. This tradition began in 1970 and continues every Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Some of the antiques are incredible and extremely well preserved.

For those looking for unique gifts and decorations, this market is the place to be. To get the full experience, begin walking up the cute and cobbled street Defensa from Plaza de Mayo. Here is where much of the market begins, and the road is closed off to traffic on Sundays. You will also see a few scattered tango performances throughout the market.

The architecture in Plaza Dorrego dates back to the 18th century, making the plaza one of the oldest public areas in Buenos Aires. Wagons used to bring produce and other food items from all over the country. It wasn’t until the 1930s that Plaza Dorrego became known as a place for wine and tango, and in 1978, the plaza became a National Historic Location.

Toward the end of the day as vendors pack up their stands, the plaza opens up to a free tango space where you can find impromptu tango lessons. Partake in the dance or enjoy from afar in the many bars and cafes surrounding the plaza. Regardless, the Feria de San Pedro Telmo is an attraction not to be missed!

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