Jalapa

Jalapa is a municipality in northern Nicaragua near the Honduras border, extending across a large territory with both urban and rural settlements. The region sits at an elevation with moderate temperatures that support agricultural activities throughout the year.

The municipality came into focus during the Contra war of the 1980s, when forces attempted to gain control of the city. This period shaped local history and left lasting marks on the community.

The National Maize Fair happens every September, bringing local producers, artisans, and residents together to celebrate farming traditions and regional food. The festival shows how the community takes pride in its agricultural roots and shares them with visitors and younger generations.

Visitors should prepare for changing weather conditions since the location sits in a mountainous region where the climate can be variable. The best time to explore is during the dry season, when roads and paths are more easily accessible.

Artisans in the region create distinctive handcraft from pine needles, with women's cooperatives preserving this traditional craft and generating economic opportunities. These products show how local communities creatively use natural resources.