Driving Trail #9

Ajijic

Ajijic:                “Where the water spills over”

Population:    18,000

Founded:        1531

Jalisco
The Huicholes, living in the northern mountains of Jalisco, have retained their native language, culture and religion. They express their religion and strong ties to nature through their distinctive art, using seed beads, yarn, gourds, and embroidery.

Famous Citizens
Neill James Campbell
Ayenara Zara Alexeyegua (The Russian)

Sites to Visit

• Templo de San Andres

• Capilla del Rosario

• Casa de la Cultural

• The pier and park by the lake

• Jalisco Handicrafts Institute

• Downtown Ajijic
  Walk to numerous art galleries, jewelry stores, clothing stores, and shops with a wide selection of regional crafts for sale

• Tepalo Natural Waterfall – during the rainy season

• Tobolandia Water Park

• Hiking trails to Chupinaya and Chapel of the Cross

Arts and Crafts

• Loom weaving

• Ceramics and earthenware

• Paintings, silver jewelry by local artists, Mexican and foreign

• Crafts from other areas of Mexico

Festivals

• Holy Week The Passion of Christ Representation
  A realistic re-enactment not to be missed.

• Virgen del Rosario - August

• Virgen de Guadalupe - 12 December

• Patronales de San Andres - November 22 – 30

• Chili Cook-Off – 3 day in February
  (Winner goes to US Championship)

• Carnaval (mardi gras)

• Festival of the Fish (May)

Street Market Day:    Wednesday

Regional Foods

• Carne asada en hojas de mango - roasted meat in mango leaves.

• Pico de Gallo – seasonal fruits chopped and served with lime juice and chile

• Shrimp cocktail – cooked shrimp in a spicy liquid, served cold in a tall glass

• Wide variety of international food - available in local restaurants

• Ajijic is famous for its “cenadurias.” Local families prepare simple Mexican dishes such as tacos and sopes at small stands near the plaza or in front of their homes. The food is for sale.