Dems Abroad signs
Join the Chapala chapter of Democrats Abroad on Saturday, August 9, from 10 a.m. to elaborate signs for an upcoming Ajijic Plaza Rally.
Meet at La Estación Pizza Restaurant, Hidalgo 75, Riberas del Pilar (above Pancho’s East).
The chapter welcomes U.S. and Mexican citizens amd others, to create great signs. Materials will be provided. For details, see shorturl.at/JeFV6
Brunch
Brenda Béjar, editor and influencer of Guadalajara Secreta, enjoyed brunch with her Tapatio gal pals while wrapping up a luxurious weekend stay at Ajijic’s prestigious Casa del Sol Inn. This experience will soon be featured on their Facebook and Instagram accounts. Guadalajara Secreta covers current events, hot spots, and the best of living in the state capital and surrounding areas
FoodBank Lakeside
A generous donor has offered a US$10,000 challenge grant to FoodBank Lakeside at a critical fundraising time. The grant ends on August 11. Every dollar or peso you donate will go toward providing food for children and those who are seriously ill, disabled, or unable to afford meals. The goal is to raise 200,000 pesos in 30 days, especially through monthly commitments, which are vital for continued food support. To donate, visit foodbanklakeside.org and click the Donate button.
Membrillo festivals
The neighboring communities of Ixtlahuacán de los Membrillos and Atotonilquillo are celebrating the local quince harvest season in tandem, with separate festivals running through Sunday, August 10.
Open Circle
Eduardo “Lalo” Cordero, and Phil Rylett present “Come Curious, Leave Connected: the Seasons of Ajijic” at the next meeting of Open Circle, Sunday, August 10, 10 a.m. at the Lake Chapala Society.
Step beyond the fireworks, parades and papel picado and experience a lively journey through the seasons of Ajijic—where every month holds a celebration, and every celebration tells a story. Whether you’re new to town or decades deep into lakeside life, this presentation reveals the meaning beneath the merriment: ancestral customs, heartfelt rituals and the quiet resilience of a village that honors its past while dancing in the present. Expect anecdotes, insider insights and cultural layers that even longtime expats may have missed. Come curious — leave connected.
Cordero, affectionately known as Lalo to all in Ajijic, is the village “cronista” (historian), a title recognized in Mexico as the local keeper of the stories. As a youth, he recognized that the stories of his grandparents were in danger of being lost after their passing, so he chronicled them all.
Rylett has lived in Ajijic for 12 years and has been fortunate to have Lalo as his neighbor. These are Lalo’s stories, told through Phil.
Chapala Birders
Wednesday, August 13, meet team leader Cheshta Buckley at 8 a.m. at El Bajio on the west side of Ajijic (near the entrance to Cerveceria 8 Maltas) and walk down the lane to the lake. Expect to see a good variety of birds in the tall trees and fields. At about 10 a.m., the group will review the bird list. You must reserve by emailing Cheshta Buckley at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. at least two days ahead of time. Chesh’s U.S. cell number is 808-854-1594.
BBQ Fundraiser
Tickets are now available for the 11th annual BBQ fiesta at Rangers in El Salto, which donates 100 percent of ticket sales and all donations to La Ola Girl’s Home and Mama Cleo’s Boys Home. For 700 pesos, renowned Texas pitmasters will serve up a plate of delicious smoked brisket, pork ribs, pulled pork, wings, dessert, and one drink. Live music will keep the party going.
VIP passes are available for 3,000 pesos, offering access to the pit-master area. Tickets available from Rangers BBQ owner Juan Mata at 332-184-6120 (WhatsApp).