Chignahuapan: A Christmas Wonderland with a Twist!
Ah, the holiday season! A time for twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and… glass spheres? Welcome to Chignahuapan, Puebla’s very own Magical Town, and a place where the art of glassmaking gets a festive remix! If you’re wondering when the Tree and Sphere Fair kicks off, I’ve got the 411 for you. Grab your scarves and mittens because this small town is about to get very, very festive!
Getting There: On the Fast Track to Festivity
Located in the breathtaking Sierra Norte, Chignahuapan is only a speedy two-hour drive from the vibrant city of Puebla. If you can make it past the holiday traffic, you’ll be rewarded with crafty artisans and more shiny ornaments than you can shake a candy cane at! And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to say they bought their Christmas decor straight from the source?
When to Visit: Mark Your Calendars!
As soon as the Day of the Dead wraps up, Mexicans all across the country turn their thoughts to Christmas. And let’s be honest; who isn’t thinking about over-the-top holiday decorations by now? So get your diary out because, according to past editions, the 2024 fair is scheduled from November 24 to December 3. That’s right, one whole week to marvel at the lighting of the giant Christmas tree in the heart of the Plaza de la Constitución. Talk about a holiday photo op!
A Little Political Drama Never Hurt…
But hold your reindeer! In what seems to be a plot twist straight out of a festive soap opera, the Electoral Tribunal of the Judicial Branch of the Federation (TEPJF) recently threw a spanner in the works by nullifying the election results in Chignahuapan. Yes, you read that right! The victory of Juan Lira Maldonado was ousted, leaving us wondering if the true winners will be the artisans or… well, the political entities involved. Governance is tenuous, and there have been protests. Will the Tree and Sphere fair be marred by politics? Only time (and maybe a few Christmas miracles) will tell!
Shopping and Spheres: It’s a Match!
Despite the political fog hanging over the town, the glass sphere artisans are rolling out the red carpet (or is that red felt?) for eager shoppers all year round. From October onwards, visitors can check out creative studios presenting new trends in ornaments. There are over 200 family workshops waiting to showcase their sparkling designs. Over half a century of experience? Yes, please!
The Plaza del Artesano: A Destination Worth Your Time
Let’s not forget about the talented artisans who make Chignahuapan what it is! The Plaza del Artesano has officially opened its doors on Galeana Street, directly across from the basilica dedicated to the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception—a towering beauty that stands over 13 meters high. This spot is a marketplace of creativity, with glass spheres in every size and hue screaming for your attention. Christmas wreaths, nativity scenes, and even piñata supplies—yes, they bring that festivity in July (you know, just in case!).
What to Expect at the Fair
If the fair happens (fingers crossed!), expect loads of activities, such as parades, concerts, pyrotechnic shows, and folk dance displays. You might even get a chance to sample some local cuisine that’s so good, you might forget it’s the holiday season. Oh, and did I mention workshop tours? You can learn precisely how those perfect glass spheres are made. There’s nothing quite like saying, “I saw this being crafted with my very own eyes!” as you skip through the streets of Chignahuapan with your shiny new acquisitions.
Final Thoughts: A Magical Town to Remember
So, whether you’re an enthusiastic early Christmas shopper or someone who simply can’t resist kitschy decorations, Chignahuapan is the place to be. Just remember to keep an eye on local news—who knows what kind of surprise twists this festive story might take? Get ready to deck the halls, and I’ll see you under the dazzling lights!
One of the Magical Towns that the state of Puebla has is Chignahuapan, a municipality that is the main producer of glass spheres in the country, which is why many walkers, but also marketers, wonder when the Tree and Sphere Fair begins in Chignahuapan.
Chignahuapan is located in the Sierra Norte of the state and to get to that town it has fast access roads, at least two hours away from the city of Puebla.
After Day of the Dead, Mexicans already think about the arrival of Christmas and all the magic that surrounds it, such as the tree, glass spheres, nativity scenes, piñatas, posadas, bonuses and gifts.
For the decoration of houses, offices or work centers, the best recommendation is to buy spheres and Christmas items directly from the producers and to do this you have to visit Chignahuapan, where there are more than 200 family workshops, but also well-established companies where there are spheres all sizes, designs and colors.
According to past editions, the 2024 fair is scheduled from November 24 to December 3, with the lighting of the monumental Christmas tree and the sphere that the municipal authorities place in the central garden or the Plaza de la Constitución.
However, due to post-election conflicts, the Electoral Tribunal of the Judicial Branch of the Federation (TEPJF) He annulled the results and determined that the elections must be repeated, therefore annulling the victory of Juan Lira Maldonado.
In this sense, in coordination with the State Secretary of the Interior and in order to maintain governance in the town, a Municipal Council was installed.
Due to this uncertainty, recognized events such as the Festival of Light and Life, which is celebrated within the framework of the Day of the Dead festivities, were marred by protesters who are against the (TEPJF) resolution and it is feared that The same thing happens with the Tree and Star Fair since the monumental figures have not yet been installed for the lighting.
Even when there is no official event by the municipal authorities, visitors and buyers can come at any time of the year to purchase their Christmas spheres.
There are those who visit this Magic Town starting in October, when the artisans’ workshops already have the trends and new models of spheres for sale that they will decorate to decorate the Christmas holidays.
For this 2024, the Plaza del Artesano has already opened its doors, which is located on Galeana Street, in front of the tower of the Basilica of Chignahuapan, which is dedicated to the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, recognized nationally for being a piece carved in wood. more than 13 meters high.
In this square there are glass spheres of various sizes, series of lights, Christmas wreaths or accessories to design them to each person’s taste. There are also Christmas nativity scenes, nativity scenes, resin or plaster images, tree bases and much more.
The artisans of Chignahuapan exhibit their creations and show their creativity with unique and striking designs that change year after year, mainly in colors and decoration.
With the Tree and Sphere Fair, if it takes place, activities for the whole family are expected, such as parades, concerts, pyrotechnic shows, folk dance displays and enjoying local cuisine.
As well as tours of the workshops of local artisans, giving tourists the opportunity to learn up close about the process of making the spheres.
**Interview with Maria Lopez, Chignahuapan Local and Artisan**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Maria! Chignahuapan is preparing for its annual Tree and Sphere Fair, which is shaping up to be quite an event. Can you tell us a little about what visitors can expect this year?
**Maria Lopez:** Absolutely, thank you for having me! This year, from November 24 to December 3, Chignahuapan will be bustling with the holiday spirit. We’re excited to showcase our stunning glass ornaments, but there will also be parades, concerts, and folk dance performances. And of course, food! Local cuisine is a must-try for visitors.
**Editor:** That sounds delightful! However, there’s been some political unrest recently with the annulment of the election results. How do you think this will affect the festivities?
**Maria Lopez:** It’s true that the political situation is uncertain right now. There are concerns that protests might overshadow the fair. However, the artisans are determined to keep the holiday spirit alive. We hope that visitors will come to enjoy the fair and support local craftsmanship regardless of the political drama.
**Editor:** Speaking of craftsmanship, Chignahuapan is famous for its glass spheres. What makes them so special?
**Maria Lopez:** Our glass spheres are crafted by over 200 family workshops, each with their own unique designs and techniques. Having been in this business for decades, we put a lot of love and artistry into every piece. Buying directly from artisans means you’re taking home something truly special that reflects the spirit of our townspeople.
**Editor:** For those unfamiliar with Chignahuapan, what’s the best way to get there, and what steps should visitors take to make the most of their trip?
**Maria Lopez:** If you’re coming from Puebla, it’s a quick two-hour drive—just keep an eye out for traffic! Once you arrive, I recommend visiting the Plaza del Artesano to explore various workshops. Also, getting there as soon as the fair opens is key; you’ll want to be among the first to see the magical lighting of the giant Christmas tree!
**Editor:** Great tips, Maria! Any final message for those considering a visit this holiday season?
**Maria Lopez:** Yes! I invite everyone to experience not just the beauty of our glass ornaments and the festive atmosphere, but also the warmth of our community. Chignahuapan is a magical town, and despite our challenges, we are more than ready to welcome you with open arms and festive cheer!
**Editor:** Thank you, Maria! We hope to see many visitors making their way to Chignahuapan this holiday season.
