TlaquepArte, the annual crafts fair hosting more than 200 exhibitors from all over Latin America, opens at the Centro Cultural El Refugio in Tlaquepaque on Thursday, October 13 and runs until Monday, October 17, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Visitors to this crafts extravaganza will be again thrilled to find the same high-quality handicrafts, gifts and decorations at below retail prices. 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.
What can you find at TlaquepArte? Pretty much anything craft-related.
You’ll find 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, blown glass, paintings, wrought iron and candles – 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.
This giant biannual bazaar has been running since 1997 and should have something to please everyone at a range of prices. A major plus of TlaquepArte is that shoppers are able to browse, ask questions and buy directly at cost from any of the artisans at the event. Held twice a year, the fair is popular among retailers and visitors alike. Wholesalers are especially attracted to the four-day event, while even the most frugal of spenders can pick up delightful gifts for less than 50 pesos. The sprawling venue, the Centro Cultural El Refugio, is perfect for housing the many vendors’ stands. Buyers can make a day out of their visit by also taking in Tlaquepaque’s other attractions.
Centro Cultural El Refugio is at Donato Guerra 160, Tlaquepaque (about three blocks from the main plaza). For transportation from Lake Chapala call Charter Club Tours, (376) 766-1777.