The festive atmosphere of the state is born out in its celebrations, which are held as an indication of the religious and cultural roots that prevail among inhabitants.

The Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería is one of the most important events in the state, raising the status as it does of two of Mexico and the region’s leading traditions: music and the art of the charro, a form of Mexican rodeo. This is held every year at the end of August and in early September.

Other celebrations which fill Tapatíos – as Jalisco natives are called – with pride include those to commemorate the founding of the city of Guadalajara, on February 14, 1542; the National Tequila Fair, celebrated between November and December; the Feasts of San Pedro Tlaquepaue, in June, the May Fairs in Puerto Vallarta and the Chapala Carnival.

Religious festivals include the Feast of the Virgin of the Candelaria, in the towns of San Juan de los Lagos and Encarnación de Díaz; the Virgin of Dolores in Teocaltiche; the Feast of Santo Santiago in Tonalá, in July and the Romería (pilgrimage) of the Virgin of Zapopan on October 12.

Every one is a chance to sample the flavors of the cuisine, represented in particular by the lamb al pastor of Tapalpa; the traditional goat birria (stew) from Ciudad Guzmán and Cocula; the charales (tiny, crunchy fish) on the banks of Lake Chapala and the tortas ahogadas of Guadalajara, along with – of course – tequila, as well as sweets made from burnt milk and crunchy buñuelos.