The Christmas season in Yucatán is characterized by traditional dinners that bring together family and friends. However, in 2024, Yucatecans face a significant increase in the costs of these banquets, influenced by inflation and the escalation in prices of basic ingredients.
The central dishes of Christmas dinner have experienced notable variations in their prices:
Turkey: A kilogram of frozen turkey is priced between 120 and 150 pesos, which implies that a 7 kg turkey could cost between 840 and 1,050 pesos.
Roasted pork leg: A kilo of baked leg is offered at 280 pesos, enough for approximately five people.
Stuffed chicken breast: A package of 10 pieces is 460 pesos.
The garnishes have also registered increases:
Red or green spaghetti: The kilogram is 260 pesos.
Potato cake with bacon: This dish is offered at 450 pesos per kilo, serving five people.
Apple salad: A traditional dessert with an approximate cost of 160 pesos.
Purchasing options and catering services. Due to lack of time or convenience, some families choose to purchase prepared dinners:
Turkey prepared to bake: A 10 kg turkey ready to bake can cost between 1,300 and 1,600 pesos.
Turkey baked and ready to serve: Prices range between 2,300 and 3,000 pesos, depending on the establishment and preparation.
Local restaurants: Some offer Christmas dinners with prices depending on the menu and services included. For example, the Hotel Los Aluxes in Mérida promotes a pre-sale Christmas dinner at 1,289 pesos per adult and 645 pesos per child.
According to estimates, a Christmas dinner for 10 people could cost between 5,300 and 10,000 pesos, representing an increase of 20% to 30% compared to previous years.
This increase poses challenges for Yucatecan families, who seek to keep Christmas traditions alive despite economic difficulties. It is advisable to plan ahead, compare prices, and consider cheaper options to celebrate these dates without compromising the financial stability of the household.
By Roberto García Hidalgo for The Yucatan Times
TYT Newsroom
