Tianguis del Chopo

The Tianguis Cultural del Chopo is a street market specialised in all the paraphernalia of mexican rock culture. Located every saturday near the Buenavista subway station, it is a place where mexican youth has gathered for 27 years. It started as the first Record Fair in a Museum, which was intended to last just a week, but it was so successful that it established as a weekly event. It has moved four times, but since 14 years ago, it has remained in the north edge of Mexico City's downtown.

There are several ways in which the market is attractive for nationals and tourists alike. This is a place in Mexico which portrays mexican subculture at its most. It has been the stonghold of punks, goths, metal fans, skaters, rastas, hippies and rockers. The crowds are attracted as it represents a place where young people can escape from social margination. Throughout the years, the Chopo has brought to its scene much more than music: it has created a stage for live music, has a space for art exhibitions and has encouraged literary events.

This market provides an immense variety of goods related to rock culture: records of almost any type or year, books, crafts, tapes, posters, clothes and accessories, music instruments, tattoos and piercings.
Most people visit the market to exchange CD's or buy them at second-hand price, something which has allowed mexicans to have access to culture at a price they can afford. It is good to get there before midday and leave before 2.30pm. That's when it becomes too crowded. Avoid getting there before six, as by the time many are drunk and there can be occassional fights.