The National Museum of Popular Cultures opened in 1982, with the help of anthropologist Guillermo Bonfil Batalla. Currently it has five exhibition halls showing the richness and diversity of intercultural dialogue in Mexico, based on knowledge, appreciation and respect for cultural pluralism.

Its main purpose is to document, disseminate and encourage action by the creators of popular cultures of Mexico in rural and urban areas, through exhibitions and implementing artistic and cultural activities.

Some recurring themes in its exhibitions and collections are corn, crafts, worldview and celebrations.