Expo TlaquepArte, Mexico’s largest international fair for handicrafts, jewelry, gifts, and home décor, is making its return to Playas de Rosarito from Friday, September 12 through Tuesday, September 16. Visitors will once again have the chance to explore more than 200 booths at the Baja California Center, taking home a piece of culture from every corner of Mexico and beyond.
This year’s edition brings together artisans from across the country and from 16 Latin American nations, including Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Cuba, Guatemala, Ecuador, and Paraguay. The event also draws exhibitors from around the world, with representation from Russia, Turkey, Greece, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Egypt, and Senegal.
Expo-goers will discover a wide range of products, from Mata Ortiz ceramics from Chihuahua and Olinalá boxes from Guerrero to Taxco silver jewelry, hand-carved Ecuadorian wood, and exotic Cuban woods. International highlights include Turkish lamps, Egyptian crafts, Italian dresses, Indian textiles, and Colombian coffee. Visitors can also sample gourmet salsas and jams from Querétaro, savor regional flavors, and browse clothing, cosmetics, accessories, as well as decorative items.
During a recent press conference, Karim Chalita, president of Tijuana’s Tourism and Conventions Committee (COTUCO), and Carlos Maytorena Martínez, president of the Expo TlaquepArte Organizing Committee, underscored the fair’s unique appeal: the warmth of Baja California’s people, the diversity of products, and the dedication of artisans who travel great distances to share their work.
Stories Behind the Stands
Expo TlaquepArte is not just about shopping, it’s about connecting with the stories behind each craft.
- Elizabeth Martín del Campo, from Querétaro, showcased her “Bendito Gusto!” gourmet salsas and jams, describing them as handmade products crafted “with heart.” She recalled with pride that during the 2024 edition, Restaurante Caesar’s Tijuana, the birthplace of the Caesar salad, purchased her products directly at the expo.
- Estela Cárdenas, an artisan from Colombia with 40 years of experience, presented cotton and linen garments embroidered with watercolor-inspired designs that often depict her country’s landmarks. She emphasized her mission of supporting vulnerable communities, including women heads of household and young people in rehabilitation programs.
- Beatriz José Cajero, from Hidalgo, displayed hand-embroidered garments, noting that each stitch reflects the artisan’s emotions.
The fair runs daily from 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Baja California Center in Playas de Rosarito.
