Tlalpujahua sphere fair 2024: how to get there and what to see?
Feria de la Esfera in Tlalpujahua: everything you need to know
The Sphere Fair in Tlalpujahua is one of the most outstanding events in Mexico during the Christmas season. This small town, located in the state of Michoacán, has earned the reputation of being one of the main producers of Christmas spheres and ornaments nationwide.
During the fair, thousands of visitors come to purchase handmade crafts and enjoy the rich cultural offerings of this magical town. Discover the Sphere Fair in this Hertz Mexico article and get ready to get to know this unique destination.
Magic Town Tlalpujahua
Tlalpujahua is a picturesque mining town located in the state of Michoacán, in the mountainous northeastern region of the state. This place is known for its mining history, its colonial architecture, its natural landscapes and, of course, for its Sphere Fair. It is also part of Mexico's list of Pueblos Mágicos, a distinction that recognizes its cultural and touristic value.
Its exact location is about 140 kilometers northwest of Mexico City and approximately 190 kilometers from Morelia, the capital of Michoacán.
How to get to Tlalpujahua by car?
Getting to Tlalpujahua by car is easy and offers a scenic route through the mountains and forests of Michoacán, so we recommend car rental, so you can enjoy the ride. Here are some of the main routes from different points:
From Mexico City:
The trip from the capital takes about two and a half hours. To get there, you must rent a car in CDMX, take Mexico Highway 57D and then turn off onto State Highway 15D towards Tlalpujahua. The road is well signposted and the roads are safe and easy to access.
From Morelia
Hertz Mexico also has offices for rent a car in Morelia. The route from this city takes about three hours. Take the Morelia-Maravatío highway (México 15D) to Maravatío and then follow the signs to Tlalpujahua. It is a route that goes through beautiful landscapes, with mountains and fields that characterize this region of Michoacán.
From Querétaro:
If you are traveling from Querétaro, the drive is approximately two hours. Take the highway towards San Juan del Río and Atlacomulco and from there follow the signs to Tlalpujahua.
Sphere Fair Tlalpujahua 2024
The Sphere Fair generally begins in late September and runs through mid-December, coinciding with the pre-Christmas season, when the demand for spheres and ornaments is highest. This makes it possible to get the products early enough to decorate homes for the holidays. This 2024 edition will be held between September 27 and December 15.
However, the event not only attracts people looking to decorate their Christmas trees, but also collectors and lovers of blown glass art.
At the fair you can find different types of spheres, but you can also perform various activities. Some of the attractions of the fair are:
Christmas spheres and ornaments.
The Tlalpujahua spheres are the star product and there is something for everyone: spheres in bright colors and metallic, pieces decorated with figures, glitter and unique Christmas motifs. Many of the spheres are handmade by local artisans and the detailed work and handcrafted creation process make each piece unique.
Glassblowing demonstrations
During the fair, some artisans perform live demonstrations of the glass blowing process. This is an excellent opportunity to see how the spheres are created from scratch. You can appreciate the delicate art of glass blowing and, in some cases, even participate in the creation of a sphere.
Workshops and activities
The fair also includes workshops to learn how to make your own Christmas ornaments. This is a fun activity for the whole family, especially children, who can take home their creation.
Food and drink stands
Like any Mexican fair, you can't miss the delicious traditional food. You will find stands where you can enjoy typical Michoacán dishes such as corundas, uchepos, and atoles, as well as desserts such as buñuelo, which is very popular during the Christmas season.
Other activities to do in Tlalpujahua
Although the Fair is the main attraction during this season, Tlalpujahua is not only the town where they make the spheres, but it has much more to offer. Some activities you can do during your visit are:
Tour the historic center:
Tlalpujahua is a colonial town with cobblestone streets and old houses that look like something out of a fairy tale. Strolling through its downtown is like traveling back in time, as you will find several historic buildings, such as the parish of San Pedro and San Pablo, which stands out for its neoclassical architecture.
Visit the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora del Carmen:
This is one of the most emblematic places in Tlalpujahua. The sanctuary is known for its imposing façade and its religious importance in the region. It is a place of devotion and during the Christmas season, it is adorned with spheres and other festive motifs.
Museum of the López Rayón Brothers:
This museum is dedicated to the López Rayón brothers, insurgent heroes of Mexico's War of Independence. Here you can learn about the history of the independence movement and the importance of Tlalpujahua during this period.
Brockman Dam:
A few kilometers from the center of Tlalpujahua is the Brockman Dam, a beautiful place surrounded by forests and mountains, ideal for picnicking, walking or just enjoying nature.
The gold mines:
Tlalpujahua was, in its time, an important mining town. Today, you can visit the old mines and learn about the history of gold mining in the region. You can also explore the subway tunnels and learn about what it was like to work in the mines.
Take advantage of a car rental with Hertz Mexico to visit the Feria de la Esfera in Tlalpujahua and tour the surrounding area for a complete experience.