Jalisco Honors 200th Anniversary As Mexico's First Free And Sovereign State With Culturally Significant Events Planned Throughout The Year

The central Mexican state of Jalisco will mark a historic milestone on Friday, June 16 as it celebrates the bicentennial of becoming the country's first free and sovereign state. Under the banner of "Somos Jalisco, 200 Años Libres y Soberanos" ("We are Jalisco, 200 Years Free and Sovereign"), the festivities mark the historic day in 1823 when members of the Board of the Provincial Council of Guadalajara convened an unprecedented session to declare Jalisco the first established free state in the newly-formed Mexican Republic. This significant occasion will be commemorated with a series of year-long celebrations, including traditional festivals, artistic exhibitions and family-friendly 5K races, that will take place across the state's 125 municipalities.

Kicking off on June 16, locals and travelers alike can discover Jalisco's quest for independence while immersing themselves in celebrations that showcase the region's vibrant spirit and unique traditions.

In Guadalajara, the capital city, a series of civic activities will take place in honor of the day's historical significance. The morning will begin with a flag-raising ceremony in Plaza Liberación symbolizing the spirit of independence and unity, followed by a solemn session in the Congress of the State of Jalisco. A sculpture honoring Prisciliano Sánchez, Jalisco's first governor, will be unveiled in recognition of his role as the "Founder of Jalisco and Father of Federalism," and will highlight the visionary leaders who paved the way for the state's path to sovereignty. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the compelling journey of the Clío documentary titled "1823, When Jalisco Was Born," which sheds light on the birth of the state and offers a captivating exploration of its origins. The festivities will culminate in a grand celebration at the General Luis Quintanar Park (formerly Solidarity Park) featuring games and a dazzling multimedia show. Event-goers will also be treated to a can't-miss concert featuring the internationally-recognized Mariachi Gama 1000 and the electrifying Los Ángeles Azules, the authentic and original representatives of Mexican cumbia.

The picturesque Magical Towns of Jalisco – including Ajijic, Lagos de Moreno, Mazamitla, Mascota, San Sebastián del Oeste, Talpa de Allende, Tapalpa, Tequila and Tlaquepaque - will also host a spectacular array of events beginning June 16. The state's vibrant history will be brought to life through captivating charrería (rodeo) demonstrations, folkloric ballet performances and exciting mariachi shows. Artistic designs will be projected onto historic building facades via video mappings, creating a visual spectacle that merges tradition with innovation, and a circus featuring performers from around the world will entertain audiences with mesmerizing acrobatic stunts, breathtaking trapeze acts, comedy, and much more.

Home to stunning regions including Puerto Vallarta, Costalegre, Guadalajara, and Tequila, Jalisco is renowned for exporting beloved and iconic Latin American traditions that have been embraced by people around the globe. With its distinction as the birthplace of tequila, mariachi music and the Mexican rodeo sport of charrería, the state takes immense pride in its rich cultural contributions. Visitors also have the opportunity to delve into its cultural tapestry by exploring the nine Magical Towns that dot the region, each offering its own unique charm and allure. From the artisan-centric Tlaquepaque to the picturesque town of Ajijic, these enchanting destinations offer an authentic glimpse into the essence of Jalisco.

For more information on Jalisco, visit https://visitjalisco.com.mx