Tlaquepaque (pronounced T-la-keh-pah-keh) is Sedona’s premier outdoor shopping center. Under the shade of old sycamores enjoy strolling cobbled paths next to Oak Creek while you explore galleries and unique shops. The name Tlaquepaque derives from Nahuatl, an ancient Aztec language, and means “the best of everything.” That is certainly what you will find in this quaint little village that sits among tall, stunningly beautiful Arizona Sycamore trees.
Founded as an Artist Community
It was founded by Abe Miller, a lover of the arts, and named after a city in Mexico that exemplified, to its creator, the ideal artist community. Miller envisioned a cultural center where artists would create on location under Sedona’s beautiful red sandstone. Sedona was the “clay land” on which this cultural center was imagined in the 1970s. Even though it has changed and evolved from Miller’s original vision, it is still a unique experience.
Variety and Quality at Tlaquepaque
Tlaquepaque was designed to look like a traditional Mexican village, and each beautiful archway seems to invite you further into the magnificent grounds. Local artists are often at work and you can stop in to admire their progress. At Tlaquepaque you will find breathtaking artwork in every medium from stone to blown glass, painting to traditional ceramics, traditional native art to large format photography. Often local musicians are playing around different courtyards, magnifying the celebration of art and beauty that is Tlaquepaque. With over 50 stores and galleries, you can find custom silk and leather pieces, as well as whimsical gift collections. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, you can’t miss walking the gorgeous grounds at this famous Sedona landmark.
Tlaquepaque is a Lovely Setting
Each year there is a fun chili cook-off event. The proceeds are donated to the local food bank. Chefs and lay cooks all compete for the best chili prize. But the eventgoers are the true winners as they get to sample so many amazing types of chili.
The Festival of Lights at Tlaquepaque is stunning every year. A 49-year-old tradition, Tlaquepaque’s Festival of Lights is its signature winter event. There is holiday music, entertainment, and the lighting of over 6,000 luminaries. Hot chocolate and cookies abound. The shops look like they are straight out of a holiday movie, decorated to the hilt. This is a wonderful place to find unique holiday gifts for anyone on your list. Yes, even children, as Tlaquapaque includes a toy store.
There is a sweet little chapel at Tlaquapaque that looks like a small Spanish church. It is not always open to the public but when it is, it is a must-see. The energy there is so peaceful and uplifting. A beautiful mural at the altar enhances any little wedding there. The chapel is non-denominational and accommodates 40 people at a time.
Overall, Tlaquapaque provides a lovely setting with a variety of things to see and experience. The variety of restaurants, bakeries, and ice cream shops just adds to the enjoyment. Make sure you include this local and international favorite on your itinerary here.
