Palm Sunday Artisan Market (Uruapan)

The largest artisan market in Latin America (just 45 min away)

If you're in Pátzcuaro at the start of Holy Week, you have a must-see destination less than an hour away. Each Domingo de Ramos, the neighboring city of Uruapan becomes the world capital of folk art. What began as a simple square for selling palm fronds has evolved into the Palm Sunday Artisan Market, considered the largest of its kind in Latin America.

The Figures of Astonishment To understand the scale of this event, just look at the numbers:

• +1,500 Artisans: Coming from the four indigenous ethnic groups of the state (Purépecha, Mazahua, Otomí and Nahua).

• +1 Million Pieces: From miniatures to giant furniture.

• Duration: Although it starts on Palm Sunday, the sale extends over the two weeks of vacation (Holy Week and Easter).

What will you find? (Shopping Guide) The open-air market is set up in the immense Martyrs of Uruapan Square and its surroundings. It's a multi-sensory journey where you'll find the best of each region:

• Maque and Lacquer: The specialty of Uruapan. Trays and gourds decorated with inlays and natural oils (pre-Hispanic technique).

• Pottery: The famous glazed pineapples of San José de Gracia or the green pots of Patamban.

• Carved Wood: Furniture, masks and sculptures that radiate the warmth of the mountains.

• Textiles: Patakua shawls, embroidered huanengos and fine tablecloths.

• Fibers: Hats and basketry from the lake region.

The Artisans' Parade (The Visual Spectacle) The festival officially begins with the Artisans' Parade (usually the Saturday before or Sunday morning). It's one of Michoacán's most colorful spectacles: artisans parade through the town center in their traditional finery, dancing to the rhythm of the bands and carrying displays of their work. It's an explosion of pride and identity that you can't miss.

🌮 Uruapan Flavor The experience isn't complete without the food. In the food court, you must try the Churipo con Corundas (beef broth with red chili), the comforting Atole de Grano (anise with corn) and, of course, the world-famous Carnitas from Michoacán.

Logistics from Pátzcuaro Uruapan is only 45 minutes by car or bus from Pátzcuaro. It's the perfect day trip: leave early, shop for authentic handicrafts, enjoy delicious food, and return to sleep in the tranquility of Pátzcuaro.

Location: Historic Center of Uruapan, Michoacán.