Jalisco is thousands of miles away from Los Angeles, but you don’t have to hop on a flight to get a taste of this beautiful Mexican state. LB Living, along with the AJUA Jalisco, which represents Jalisco natives living in the United States and Jalisco’s government, is bringing a small piece of Jalisco to the City of Angels. On November 4 and 5, Fiestas de Octubre, an event celebrated annually in Jalisco, will be held in the city of Sante Fe Springs.
Why in Los Angeles? “The city has the largest number of Jalisciences (individuals from Jalisco) outside of Jalisco,” states Sal Flores, founder of LB Living. Flores is a proud Jalisciense himself and a member of AJUA Jalisco. He says the organization is dedicated to “educating the general public about Mexican culture, about Mexican traditions, and our talent, music, and food.”
That said, the 2023 Fiestas de Octubre will mark the third year AJUA Jalisco is putting on this event and the first time LB Living is joining in on the fun. AJUA Jalisco and LB Living have previously collaborated, notably on the successful Taco & Tequila Festival that transpired in July 2023.
Flores described Jalisco’s Fiestas de Octubre (translation: “October Festivities”) as a jam-packed state fair that honors Jalisco’s rich history. LA’s Fiestas De Octubra is no different. Flores explained, “It’s important to acknowledge and highlight the importance of the Mexican culture within the LA Area….It’s also educational; it’s showcasing what Mexico is all about, especially the state of Jalisco, and what’s possible when the two sides work together.”
While the LA-based event will be much smaller and shorter in comparison, it will not leave attendees disappointed. Admission is free, and there will be something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Guests can expect a kid zone, bars, and countless vendors, many of which are coming directly from Jalisco to sell locally-made goods and treats.
And, of course, there will be food, provided by vendors such as Birreria Los Cacharritos, Los Reyes de Tacos Sabroso, and Miche Fresca King, who specialize in Mexican cuisine favorites. Likewise, both days will be filled with entertainment that Jalisco’s government is sponsoring.
Notable names set to perform include the Grammy-nominated El Tri, a legendary Mexican rock band that Flores referred to as “the Latino Rolling Stones,” and the Sinaloa-based Mi Banda el Mexicano, which are known for their songs “Bailando De Caballito” and “Ramito de Violetas.” Regional music will be provided by Mariachi Internacional CHG and cumbia from Banda Vallarta Show, to name a few.
In addition, there will be a special appearance from Enrique Alfaro Ramírez, Jalisco’s governor, and other government officials. Flores estimates that 15 to 20,000 people will be at Fiestas de Octubre daily. Speaking about the significance of this event for Latinos, he said, “I think it’s important to acknowledge and to bring these traditions to give people the opportunity to enjoy things that are for them and by them.”
However, everyone, whether they are Latino or not, is welcome. Flores said, “They’ll get to learn about Mexican culture and our different businesses and different things that we do… I think it’s a great way of getting everybody together and having a great time.”
Fiestas de Octubre will be held at 12215 Telegraph Road in Santa Fe Springs from 2 to 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 4, and from 2 to 10 p.m. on Sunday, November 5. Free parking and shuttles will be available. Admission is free.
Tequila-tasting experiences are available for $35 per day or $75 for two days. You can also enhance your visit with VIP access for $75 per day or $120 for two days. VIP packages include a designated VIP area, tequila tastings, a complimentary drink, a complimentary taco plate, and front-of-stage access to musical performances.
All tickets must be reserved and can be found on Eventbrite. For more information, head to Fiesta’s de Octubre’s website.
What's Your Reaction?
