September Can't-Miss Events
September has arrived, bringing with it Mexico’s patriotic festivities. While we’re dedicating a special feature to the celebrations themselves, this particular article focuses on everything else happening around San Miguel—events we hope you’ll enjoy, brought to you in collaboration with our friends at San Miguel Live.
As part of the Festival México Negro, a celebration honoring the Afro-descendant communities of Mexico, a series of events will take place from September 1–5. Among them is a screening of La Negrada, a film that follows the lives of Juanita and Magdalena and their community along the coast of Oaxaca. The film will be screened today at 5 PM at Teatro Santa Ana, with free admission.
On September 2, audiences can enjoy Jazz Fro-Funk Collective, a quartet bringing together the rhythms of Africa, Latin influences, and the unmistakable groove of funk.
On September 3 at 1 PM, “Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America” will take place at Teatro Santa Ana, where BROSMA (Brothers of San Miguel) will present this powerful film, followed by a free discussion and analysis.
Later that same day, at 4 PM, the Abayomi Black Dolls Workshop will invite participants to discover the art behind these charming handmade dolls. Afro-Mexican activist Tanya Duarte will lead the workshop, exploring their origins during times of slavery and their significance as symbols of resilience and strength inherited from African ancestors.
On the fourth day of the festival, children can enjoy the Puppet Show: Mulato Teatro presents Tilicos Flacos, where we follow the story of Tomoani, a dark-skinned, curly-haired boy who embarks on a journey into Mictlán, the realm of the dead in Mexica mythology.
At noon on September 4, the conference “Visibilizando la existencia de la comunidad Afromexicana en México” will once again feature Tanya Duarte at Teatro Santa Ana. The talk invites audiences to reflect on the often-overlooked Afro-Mexican community and the countless contributions it has made to Mexico.
To close this remarkable festival, September 5 at 3:30 PM will bring the ¡Gran Baile de Afrocumbia! to the Library Courtyard. With a band whose aesthetic draws inspiration from Mexican offices of the 1970s, this promises to be an unforgettable celebration—and one where staying off the dance floor may prove impossible.
But there’s much more happening around San Miguel.
Country Line Dancing classes are a must for anyone looking to learn the basics of country dancing. Classes take place every Tuesday for one hour at Zacateros #41, offering the perfect opportunity to discover your inner country star.
In honor of the ultimate country diva, Dolly Parton, Disco & Dolly with Frad and Javier will bring a special tribute celebrating some of the singer’s greatest hits. Join them this Thursday, September 3, at Johnny’s Piano Bar for an evening dedicated to one of country music’s most iconic women.
For those looking to explore their creative side, FASMA’s Playwriting Workshop offers a safe space for creation and experimentation. Through practical exercises, participants will learn how to develop monologues, dialogues, and trialogues, as well as how to build dramatic tension. The workshop takes place September 8 at El Sindicato Centro Cultural Comunitario.
And because September also calls for one of Mexico’s most iconic culinary traditions, the season for chiles en nogada has arrived. At the Chiles en Nogada Cooking Class, Jazz and her mother will guide participants through everything that goes into preparing this exquisite tricolor dish.Aprons at the ready! Reservations: 551-518-9861.
