Celebrating Community, Culture, and Cats in San Antonio, Mexico
Since moving to San Antonio Tlayacapan in the Lake Chapala region of Jalisco, Joe and I have been soaking in every aspect of life here—from volunteering with animals to dancing at fiestas, trying incredible food, and joining in on traditional celebrations.
One of the most rewarding parts of our routine has been volunteering at a nearby cat shelter. The space is home to dozens of cats—15 or so playful kittens in a shared area and several adult cats housed in small groups. Our “job” is simple: give them attention, pets, and affection. The shelter is just a 30-minute walk from our house, making it an easy part of our weekly rhythm.
Celebrations In San Antonio Tlayaycapan
San Antonio’s plaza has been alive with celebrations lately. Earlier this month, the community gathered in the plaza to honor the artists who have transformed San Antonio with murals and public art. The event was full of life: mariachi performances, schoolchildren singing and dancing, puppetry and theater, and heartfelt recognition of the talent that beautifies the town.
The celebration reinforced what I love most here: art is for everyone, and the whole community takes pride in it.
Fiestas Patrias: Independence Day in San Antonio
One of the highlights of September in Mexico is Fiestas Patrias, celebrating the country’s independence from Spain. Saturday Night, the plaza transformed into a lively party with food stalls, rides for kids, music, dancing, the traditional Cry of Independence, and a powerful mariachi band (not surprising, since mariachi originated in Jalisco in the 18th century). On Sunday, the parade was a vibrant showcase of the region’s youth and traditions. Children marched with their schools, brass bands filled the streets with music, and riders on horseback wore elaborate traditional costumes.
Following the parade was the infamous pole-climbing contest. Teams of men formed human pyramids to reach bags of prizes tied at the top, while the crowd cheered wildly. At one point, locals tried to rope Joe into joining—it was hilarious to watch him politely decline (and then hide)!
All of these agains were again a reminder of how central family and community are in Mexican culture.
Dancing, Birthdays, and Sparkles
In between cultural events, we also attended a few parties—and like everything here, they were full of music, DJs, and dancing. People here truly know how to celebrate. One party even had a “dress fabulous” theme. I hadn’t expected to need my sequined dresses so soon after moving, but they are on my list of things to bring down here in our next luggage haul.
Food is always central to our adventures, and recently we discovered a few new favorites:
El Chef de la Nena- Venezuelan Arepas in San Antonio – Tucked in a backyard garden, this little gem is run by a lovely Venezuelan couple. We tried arepas stuffed with mushrooms, plantains, spinach and cheese, and tender meats. Arepas are paired with Papelón con Limón, a refreshing drink made from raw sugarcane and lime. https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZSAPZUbFPtGQbcCP9
Rosemary Restaurant in Ajijic – A beautiful open-air space filled with trees and local artwork. The atmosphere was serene, the food fresh and delicious, and I was reminded once again how much I love Mexico’s tradition of dining al fresco. Rain showers can be a challenge, but most restaurants handle it gracefully. https://maps.app.goo.gl/F2oT62C48dBCdHQB6
Life here is vibrant—rooted in history, alive with music and dance, and always centered around family and community. Every day makes me more grateful that Joe and I took the leap to build our life in Mexico. Viva Mexico!!
