And it is a real treat in La Paz
As a child, the holidays meant coming together of families, friends and communities. An experience that I lost touch with while living in Canada.
However, while visiting the “tianguis navideño” or the Christmas Market of La Paz this week, I was reminded of childhood memories and feelings that malls and big box stores can’t replicate, no matter how well they are decorated or how loud the Christmas songs are being played.
There is a fine line between experiencing the holidays as a joyful coming together of communities, families and friends, or a stressful and expensive one. These traditional markets around Mexico, such as the one in La Paz, help preserve that authentic feel for the holidays, offering free concerts, affordable treats while allowing families to come together and celebrate.
This year also marked the 35th anniversary of the Christmas market in La Paz. A tradition that continues to embody this communal togetherness while keeping the holiday spirit alive. What I particularly enjoyed at the tianguis, was being able to stroll outdoors leisurely, without the annoyance of the excessive artificial lights and long lines that can be experienced at the big box stores during this time of the year.
In addition, the opportunity to buy unique crafts from local artisans was also very appealing to me, with many vendors offering products that are not typically available year-round in La Paz.
Then, there are the food stalls… the churros being fried on the spot, elotescarts, a hot cup of delicious champurrado, or my favorite - banderillas covered in hot Cheetos pieces and drizzled with salsas…
This year, the market is featuring 118 stalls between Independencia and Francisco I. Madero streets in front of the main cathedral; and when you visit, don’t forget to enjoy a cup of champurrado!
