A quieter grito
For a “Grito” experience without the crowds of downtown Guadalajara or Zapopan on Saturday, September 15, head to either one of two popular spots on the western side of the city. The Glorieta Chapalita hosts a relaxed Grito party with all the right (culinary) trappings, as does the park at Bach and Millet in Colonia La Estancia. The Grito is “shouted” at 11 p.m. If you want more formality but an equally good time, head to a party at one of the five-star hotels. Bars and restaurants will also be doing a roaring trade.
Festival El Diente
El Diente, where monster rocks cover a steep hillside above the placid village of Rio Blanco, is just a 17-minute drive north of Guadalajara. The area is loved by boulder and mountain climbers but the surrounding land has recently been purchased by developers, who plan to carpet the area with 26,000 houses. The first Festival El Diente take place this weekend to create awareness about “saving El Diente,” say organizers. The festival offers workshops, exhibitors, performers, fashion shows, yoga, walking, canine skill displays, overnight camping and demonstrations and competitions – with prizes of up to 1,400 dollars – in boulder climbing, trail running and slacklining. The event is expected to lure at least 2,500 people over the three days (Friday, September 14 to Sunday, September 16). Open on Saturday from 8 a.m. to midnight, and until 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. Entrance fee for adults, 80 pesos, free for children. For more information see www.festivaleldiente.com.
To get to the site turn north off the northern Periferico at Plaza San Isidro (shopping mall) and drive 1.2 kilometers until Avenida Rio Blanco. Turn left and continue four kilometers until you have passed through the pueblo of Rio Blanco.
British evening
The next gathering of British citizens residening in Guadalajara will be on Saturday, September 22, from 8:30 p.m., at the home of Gail and Sandro Songini in Residencial Colomos Patria.
All British and Commonwealth citizens, their spouses, partners and friends are welcome at these informal monthly get-togethers. Just bring a plate of food to share and your favorite grog. For exact directions and more information call (33) 3641-7331.
Mexpat
Guadalajara’s monthly Mexpat meeting takes place Thursday, September 27 at the Demetria Hotel at Avenida La Paz 2219 in Colonia LaFayette.
Mexpat brings together a wide range of expatriates from diverse countries each month to chew the fat and get acquainted with new and old friends.
The Demetria has a fifth-floor sky bar with great views of the city. The action starts at 7 p.m. and goes on until around 11 p.m. For more information call (331) 556-1948.
Albert finds a home
Rescued from an amusement park by city authorities earlier this year, Albert the Bengal tiger was due to be welcomed into the Guadalajara Zoo’s “Selva Tropical” on Friday morning. Albert has his own swimming pool in the enclosure and can now be seen by visitors.
Tren Ligero & dance
It’s an unusual venue but the Plaza Universidad Tren Ligero (city subway) station in the city center has become a popular location for dance presentations. Two more free shows are planned tis month, on Friday, September 21 and 28, all at 7 p.m.
Station location: Avenida Juarez and Pedro Loza.
Upcoming soccer games
Atlas vs. Queretaro (Estadio Jalisco) Saturday, September 15, 9 p.m.
Guadalajara Chivas vs. Pumas UNAM (Estadio Omnilife) Sunday, September 23, 5 p.m.