Some places captivate visitors with their breathtaking landscapes, others with their cuisine, and some through stories passed down from generation to generation. In the southern region of the state of Nayarit, at the foot of the Ceboruco Volcano, lies a destination where nature created something truly extraordinary.
The mineral-rich volcanic soils gave rise to a corn variety unlike any other in the world. Here, corn plants can grow over 13 feet (4 meters) tall, producing remarkably large ears of corn that have become a source of pride for the families who have cultivated them for generations.
Photo Credito: Fundación Tortilla
That place is Jala, one of Nayarit's most charming Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns). Its name comes from the Nahuatl language and means "place where sand abounds." With its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and landscapes shaped by the Ceboruco Volcano, Jala invites visitors to slow down and explore every corner. More than just a destination, it is a place to connect with history, local traditions, and the natural beauty that has shaped its identity.
If there is one time of year when all of that comes together, it is during the Corn Fair. From August 815, 2026, Jala welcomes visitors from across the country for a celebration filled with music, local cuisine, culture, and traditions that pay tribute to one of the region's greatest treasures: its giant corn.
Eight Days to Experience Jala's Traditions
During the Corn Fair, everyday life gives way to a vibrant celebration where culture, gastronomy, and local traditions can be experienced around every corner.
The festivities begin with the Coronation of the Fair Queen, officially opening eight days of celebrations. One of the most meaningful traditions is La Leñadera Procession, a religious and community parade that commemorates the long-standing custom of local residents gathering firewood from the surrounding hills to fuel the fires and kitchens used during the town's patron saint festivities.
Photo Credito: Jala Pueblo Mágico
Throughout the week, the festival features live music and concerts, traditional dances accompanied by regional bands, horseback parades, jaripeos (Mexican-style rodeo events), cultural performances, and a colorful artisan market where visitors can admire handcrafted pieces made from corn husks, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship that have been preserved for generations.
The celebration culminates with one of its most anticipated events: the Giant Corn Competition. In this unique contest, local farmers proudly present the finest examples of the native Jala corn variety, grown in the fertile volcanic soils surrounding the Ceboruco Volcano. More than a competition, it is a tribute to the agricultural heritage that has earned this Magic Town international recognition and an opportunity to see some of the largest ears of corn in the world up close.
Photo Credito: Fundación Tortilla
A Taste of Jala
No visit is complete without experiencing the local cuisine. Just steps from the main square and basilica, the Municipal Market offers some of the region's most beloved traditional flavors. Here, visitors can enjoy everything from the famous giant tostadas, made with locally grown corn, to gorditas de horno (traditional baked corn pastries), refreshing tejuino, handcrafted nieves de garrafa (traditional ice cream), and artisanal cheeses produced by families in the nearby community of Coapan, who have preserved this craft for generations.
Photo Credito: Secretaría del Turismo de México
If you're looking for an authentic getaway away from the usual tourist routes, August is the perfect time to discover this corner of Nayarit. Surrounded by volcanic landscapes, colonial architecture, traditional flavors, and one of the state's most iconic celebrations, you'll experience a journey that will stay with you long after you return home.