Start Making Plans for Corn Festival 2016 in Jala

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For the first two weeks of August, Jala in Nayarit will present the annual La Feria del Elote (Corn Festival), a tribute to the pre-Hispanic heritage.

Located a short distance from the coast communities, Jala and Xalisco prepare a wide variety of events all with the purpose of celebrating the Corn Festival.

Said to be the home of the Guinness World Book of Records’ largest corncob, the yearly Corn Festival in Jala is a traditional and very popular local festival that honors the first harvest of corn each year.

Corn is the most important crop in the area, and some ears measure as long as 20 inches; of course the longest and largest win prizes.

The corn variety that is grown in this region is called "Jala Breed"; it is original of Nayarit and the maize plant can reach a height of 6 meters. It is an endemic species, adapted to the soil and climatic conditions of the region, where an infinity of microclimates coexist.

The food stands, mainly with corn prepared in different ways and processed products based on this grain, are set on the streets and offer a real experience to the palate.

The local cuisine, traditions, culture and the town’s colonial architecture play honorary roles and are also great reasons to attend.

Historically, pagans began celebrating earlier, but since the event is also a religious occasion that celebrates the Virgin of the Assumption on August 15, nowadays the event lasts two weeks and features regional expos, sports competitions, jaripeos (bull riding), dancing and performances in public places, fireworks, and many other family-friendly activities.

The Festival activities begin on the first of the month and conclude on August 15 with the celebration of the Virgin of the Assumption (Virgen de la Asunción).

This festival is the ideal excuse to visit Riviera Nayarit, to enjoy its traditions, culture and most typical gastronomy.

Visit Jala and Xalisco during August for a great experience in learning more about our country and one of our traditions.