Patron Saint Festival: Tradition that Endures
Tara A. Spears
La Peñita de Jaltemba, a charming coastal town in the Riviera Nayarit, is famous not only for its beaches and hospitality, but also for its vibrant festivals that celebrate local culture and traditions. What makes these festivities so special is that it is a reflection of the rich heritage of the region, where music, dance, and gastronomy intertwine to offer exciting activities to residents and visitors.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of tradition, culture, and fun. The schedule of activities is not finalized at this time but I will post it as it becomes available. The patron saint festivities of La Peñita de Jaltemba this year are May 12-20. These 9 days are in honor of the Virgin of the Rosary of Talpa, with the participation of families, pilgrims and visitors who keep alive one of the most deeply rooted traditions of the region. While more secular than 50 years ago, the aim of the festival is to recognize and pro
mote the expression of faith and popular culture that strengthen the identity of the towns in our municipality. Highlights of the event are the pilgrimages/parade downtown; live music performances; folkdance, games plus food and cold beer. A spectacular Bull riding event with band requires a ticket but all other activities are free.
Music, dance, and fireworks are essential in the festivities of La Peñita de Jaltemba. During the celebrations, concerts are organized in which local and national artists participate. The musical genres range from traditional Mexican music to contemporary rhythms. In addition, folk dances are a fundamental part of the festivities, with groups dressing up in traditional costumes and performing choreographies that tell stories of the local culture. Among the delicacies you can find, the following stand out: Ceviche: Prepared with fresh fish and accompanied by lemon, onion and chiles. Birria, a goat meat stew, seasoned with spices and served with tortillas can be topped off by traditional desserts like guava empanadas and the very popular fritters.
The tradition of venerating through a festival has been present since pre-Hispanic times, since some elements of nature such as the Sun, the Moon, the rain or the air were turned into gods and a certain devotion was expressed around their figure. Dr. Galicia Gordillo explains in her article, Patron Saint Festivities. Spaces of expression and religious syncretism, that this occurred because “form, meaning and function were imprinted on nature to maintain communication links with it and to be able to understand it”. The patron saint festivities since the arrival of the Spaniards typically have an interweaving of cultural beliefs.
The popularity of the patron festivals can be explained as more than faith. When the people in a small towns come together to hold a patron saint festival, they are shaping a territorial space, an identity, a belonging and even an economic and social function. Hence one component of the festival is that the Virgin is paraded through the town to spark devotion and for the faithful to highlight their belonging. Participating in the parade symbolically confirms that these people belong to the church. It’s like an identification of kinship.
The only con to the festival is the daily inclusion of fireworks. Dust off your earplugs and tranquilize your pets to minimize the aggravation. It is this element that distinguishes the festival from the NOTB county fairs.
Whether you attend to savor the tradition or wish to affirm your faith, the Patron Saint Festival of Penita de Jaltemba in honor of the Virgin of the Rosary of Talpa has something enjoyable for all ages.
One of the best ways to enjoy the festivities is by immersing yourself in the local culture. Participate in the dances, taste the food, and don’t hesitate to interact with the residents. They will be happy to share their traditions and customs with you. Attending the fairs and cultural events will allow you to appreciate the richness of the heritage of the Peñita de Jaltemba and experience the real Mexico.
