TlaquepArte, the annual exhibition of high-quality handicrafts, gifts and decorations from Mexico and Latin America, brings more than 150 top artesanos to the Centro Cultural El Refugio in Tlaquepaque this weekend and through Monday, November 21.
Together with the Feria de Maestros de Arte in Chapala (see page 20), this is a magnificent opportunity to do some Christmas shopping and buy directly from the artisans.
What can you find at TlaquepArte? Pretty much anything craft-related that’s for sure.
Jewelry, ceramics, Cuban Panama hats, lacquered boxes, Mexican silver, mirrors, furniture, belts, wallets, guayaberas (the iconic Latin American shirt), women’s clothing, hammocks, deck chairs, bags, masks, photo frames, religious items – just to name a few. Also on sale will be those highly popular and collectible alejibres – brightly-colored sculptures of fantastical animal-like creatures, typically carved from the copal tree. The smaller ones start at around 70 pesos – they’re hard to resist.
Many of the items on sale will have Christmas themes, so you’ll easily be able to decorate your house and tree with creative seasonal goodies.
This giant annual bazaar has been running since 1997 and should have something to please everyone at a range of prices.
The sprawling venue, the Centro Cultural El Refugio, is perfect for housing the many vendors’ stands. And visitors can make a day out of the visit by taking in Tlaquepaque’s many other attractions.
TlaquepArte is open daily Thursday, November 17 through Monday, November 21, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Entry 10 pesos. Centro Cultural El Refugio, Donato Guerra 160, Tlaquepaque (about three blocks from the main plaza).