Ajijic native and practicing shaman Jesus “Katusa” Higuera (right) set up a display of his personal collection of pre-Columbian artifacts collected from the lakebed on display during Spring equinox rituals held at the waterfront March 19 through 21. A small group of nationals and foreigners camped out on the beach to join in fasting, sweat lodge cleansings, dancing to the beat of hand-made drums and presentation of offerings to the ancient spirits.

Ajijic will host the second annual Festival Cultural Sangre Viva, a three-day program of activities set for next weekend showcasing a wide range of modern artistic manifestations that have evolved from Mexico’s indigenous roots.

The Lake Chapala Society pulled out all the stops for the unveiling and dedication of a new mural depicting the history of the Ajijic children’s art program.

The Guadalajara International Film Festival (FICG) branches out to Ajijic’s Cinemas del Lago this weekend with three recent Mexican documentaries selected from its Documentarte bill. All screenings start at 5 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

There are no punches pulled in the Lakeside Little Theatre (LLT) musical production “A Taste of Broadway,” compiled and exquisitely directed by Barbara Clippinger, to be presented until March 6.

The mural

Don’t miss the public dedication of the Lake Chapala Society Children’s Art Program mural on Saturday, March 3, noon, on the back patio of LCS. Dignitaries have been invited and mariachi music will make it a real celebration.