American’s Celebrate Thanksgiving in Ajijic, Mexico

Today in Mexico, Thanksgiving is celebrated by American expatriates living in Mexico and many visitors vacationing here in the village of Ajijic, on the shores of Lake Chapala.

Now here’s a bit of Mexican trivia for you.

Unlike what most American school kids learn in history class, the first Thanksgiving celebration in North America was not in Plymouth, Massachusetts but rather on April 30, 1598, by a group of Spanish explorers in northern Mexico.

At that time Spanish King Felipe II created an incentive for explorers to launch expeditions into Mexico.  The Spanish called Mexico the “New Spain”, and they went to seek wealth and elevate their prestige with the Spanish crown.  For you history buffs, here is a more detailed account of the first Thanksgiving celebration in Mexico.

Anyway, back to Lake Chapala and the Ajijic part of this story.

Perhaps the thought of celebrating Thanksgiving in Mexico has not crossed you mind.  Well, let me tell you, Mexico is a great place to enjoy Thanksgiving.

For starters you will be surrounded by the Mexican culture.

One of the things that continually amazes us about Mexico is that although much of the population has very little in a material sense, it is very rich in gratitude and thankfulness.  The Mexican culture could be an icon for the real meaning of giving thanks.

So, what better place to celebrate this holiday than in the heart of Mexican pueblito (little town), such as Ajijic.

As retired expatriates, we have now enjoyed 7 years of celebrating Thanksgiving in Lake Chapala, Mexico.  Gathering with our friends and bring all of our Thanksgiving traditions to one table with a few Mexican flourishes.

Everyone participates in putting together a menu and preparing yummy dishes that are associated with Thanksgiving comfort foods.  The turkey is supplied by Jose, the owner of ‘Chicken Little’, our favorite poultry store, so we will be assured of the freshest, juiciest turkey for our special day.  He even provides some great recipes adding a little Mexican spice.

Have plenty of help on that day is not a problem. Hiring our housekeepers to help prepare the meal, serve and clean up makes celebrating the holiday less stressful.

The cost of domestic help in Mexico is so affordable that we don’t think twice and our helpers love to earn the extra pesos.  And they always go home with mucho leftovers for their families to enjoy.

Or, on occasion we go out to one of the many restaurants that offer a truly exceptional and traditional Thanksgiving feast.  Either way Thanksgiving in Mexico is always special.

A relatively new phenomenon in Mexico and other areas of Latin America, is the idea of renting a vacation rental by Owner home.  This style of vacationing is rapidly growing in popularity.  More than ever before, holiday-makers are placing extra emphasis on privacy and space.

By renting a Vacation Rental by Owner home you can put together a fabulous Thanksgiving feast while enjoying the eternal spring weather at Lake Chapala, Mexico.
 
Make sure the home you rent has a fully equipped kitchen to take care of all of your holiday cooking needs.

Often times you can make a beautiful centerpiece for the table from the choices of flowers in the garden.  The perfect weather, warmth of the Mexican people, cobblestone streets with bougainvillea gracing the entrances of the casas all contribute to a unique and memorable vacation holiday experience.

Try something different this Thanksgiving holiday season and Visit Ajijic, Mexico for Thanksgiving!!

Warmest Regards,

Joel and Sue

P.S. Another popular time to visit Lake Chapala is for the traditional Christmas holidays in Mexico.