September is known as the mes patrio (patriotic month) in Mexico, bringing lots of activities linked to various historical events and pride in the homeland.
The Lake Chapala area offers a string of special happenings that peak with Independence Day festivities on September 15 and 16.
Here’s a quick look at some local calendar highlights. Check next week’s Reporter for more detailed information.
Friday, September 1: Chapala commemorates the anniversary of its official designation as a city, established by a state government decree in 1970.
Saturday, September 2: Ajijic’s Miss Gay 2017 pageant, held at the west end La Huerta events center, 8:30 p.m. Admission 80 pesos.
Saturday, September 9: The Regata de Globos, Ajijic’s colorful exhibition of tissue paper hot air balloons in myriad shapes and sizes, takes place at the Cruz Azul soccer field, Calle Revolution opposite Salvador’s restaurant, from 3 p.m. Voluntary donations collected at the gate; food and drinks sold on the grounds.
Wednesday, September 13: Civic ceremonies held first thing in the morning honor Los Niños Heroes, the young military cadets who sacrificed their lives in defense of the country’s sovereignty as U.S. troops stormed Chapultepec Castle in 1847 at the height of the Mexican-American War. Later in the day the Lake Chapala Society and Ajijic’s Fiestas co-host a Fiesta Mexicana, from 5 p.m. Admission 200 pesos, includes typical foods, mariachi music and folk dance show.
Thursday, September 14: Día del Charro (Horseman’s Day) is customarily celebrated with equestrian parades and charrería contests. Activities may take place on alternate weekend dates.
Friday, September 15: Festivities held in the vicinity of town halls culminate with El Grito, the traditional reenactment of Padre Miguel Hidalgo’s historic 1810 Cry of Independence. Entertainment and firework displays wrap around the ceremony.
Saturday, September 16: Civic parades along main streets pay tribute to Mexico as a free and independent nation. Traditional fairs and sporting events round out the day.