Ecilda Paullier, Uruguay, came alive with tradition, local production and vibrant entertainment as the 20th annual Fiesta Quesera concluded on Sunday, March 22, 2026. The three-day festival, held at Cabaña Paullier, drew thousands of attendees who enjoyed a diverse program of musical performances, cultural displays, and a bustling cheese fair. This year’s event underscored the importance of Uruguay’s dairy industry and its cultural heritage, while likewise supporting local institutions through fundraising efforts.
The Fiesta Quesera, a cornerstone event for the region, offered a blend of established artists and local talent. From Friday through Sunday, the stage at Cabaña Paullier hosted a lineup of nationally recognized performers, alongside traditional dance groups and local musicians. The festival wasn’t just about entertainment; it also provided a platform for showcasing the region’s artisanal cheeses and crafts, attracting both locals and tourists eager to sample the best of what Ecilda Paullier has to offer. The event’s enduring popularity highlights the strong connection between the community and its agricultural roots.
A Weekend of Festivities and Fundraising
The festivities kicked off on Friday, March 20th, with free admission and a packed schedule of performances. Attendees enjoyed shows by Espacio Dieciocho, Grupo de danzas El Timbó, Compañía Baharú, the Colonia Municipal Band, La Previa, and Leni Moreira. San José Ahora reported on the lively atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds. Saturday’s activities included horseback riding trials, children’s races, and a 4 and 8-kilometer run, with registration costing 500 pesos. The evening brought a musical lineup featuring Jerry, Legüeros, Sin Estribos, Martín Segovia, and a closing performance by Lucas Sugo. Admission on Saturday was 250 pesos, with free entry for children under 12.
Sunday concluded the festival with a civic and equestrian parade along Avenida Artigas, followed by a traditional Uruguayan almuerzo criollo at Cabaña Paullier. The afternoon featured criollas, a traditional equestrian competition, with the participation of ten tropillas (groups of horses). Sunday admission to the Cabaña Paullier grounds cost 350 pesos. La Semana detailed the Sunday events, emphasizing the cultural significance of the parade and equestrian displays.
Supporting Local Communities
Beyond the entertainment and culinary delights, the Fiesta Quesera served a philanthropic purpose. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit several local organizations, including the Boca del Cufré Nautical and Fishing Club’s cycling school, the Peñarol de Paso de las Piedras cycling school, Club Sacachispas, the El Timbó dance group, and Escuela Nº 48. Radio 41 highlighted the festival’s commitment to giving back to the community, noting that this support is a long-standing tradition of the Fiesta Quesera.
Despite some rainfall on Saturday, the 20th Fiesta Quesera continued as planned, according to reports from RO.com.uy, demonstrating the organizers’ dedication to ensuring the event’s success. The festival was organized by Fuerza, Unión y Trabajo por Ecilda Paullier (Futep), in collaboration with Sociedad Nativista La Cabaña, and with the support of the San José Intendencia, the Ecilda Paullier Municipality, and the Ministry of Tourism. The Bus Turístico also provided services to the festival from Libertad and San José de Mayo on Saturday, March 21st.
As the 20th Fiesta Quesera draws to a close, the event reaffirms its position as a vital cultural and economic driver for Ecilda Paullier and the surrounding region. Organizers are already looking ahead to next year, with plans to build on this year’s success and continue celebrating the rich traditions of Uruguayan dairy farming and community spirit. Share your favorite moments from the Fiesta Quesera in the comments below!
