La Chácara Children’s Cultural Center
Instituto de Cultura de Campeche

Created in 1998, La Chácara Children’s Cultural Center strengthens communities and neighborhoods throughout Campeche, Mexico, by engaging young people with diverse cultural activities. The Wings and Roots for the Boys and Girls of Campeche program comprises workshops and classes in the visual and performing arts. These courses offer opportunities for youth to learn about their rich cultural heritage, while fostering an appreciation for the creative arts.

Organized training spans the disciplines of art, including oil painting and craft-making; regional dance; music instruction in piano, violin, bass guitar, voice, and jazz; and theater. The program offers special activities to accommodate disadvantaged youth and those with disabilities so that all young people can benefit from the Center’s resources. La Chácara also provides daily education courses and workshops for the instructors and development staff to ensure that the program maintains the highest standards of cultural enrichment.

In addition to offering training workshops, La Chácara sponsors folkloric dance companies for children and teens, a children’s choral group, and a children’s
theater company. The Cultural Center also organizes two statewide children’s congresses each year. These gatherings provide opportunities for young people to develop their artistic abilities by working on a variety of creative projects. The Center also produces the popular Encuentros Estatales de Danza Folklórica, folkloric dance performances at various locations throughout the region. More than a dozen gatherings for children and youth have already been staged. With support from various public and private institutions, a series of free events for children, youth, and families in Campeche complement the local activities.

La Chácara’s reputation extends both nationally and internationally.
The children’s artistic group, Estrellas con Angel (Stars with Angel), and the children’s theater company, Del Tingo al Tango, have garnered numerous awards. In addition, Campeche received designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tourist itineraries to the walled city of Campeche include guided art-making tours of La Chácara, together with other cultural attractions.