The Ajijic Plaza and GALA (Galería al Aire Libre Axixic or Axixic Outdoor Gallery)
Imagine a place where every step connects you to history, art, and the daily life of a lakeside community. That place exists — it’s the Ajijic Plaza, the lively heart of this Pueblo Mágico (a Mexican designation for towns recognized for their cultural heritage). This isn’t just another town square; it’s where children play, artists display their work, and visitors find themselves enchanted by the authenticity of Ajijic, nestled on the shores of Lake Chapala.
The plaza is far more than an open space — it’s an open-air gallery adorned with colorful murals and sculptures, a stage where music fills the air each week, and a living showcase of traditions passed down through generations. Sitting on a park bench here means witnessing life unfold in its purest form: lively conversations, laughter echoing under the trees, and the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee drifting from nearby cafés.
Visiting the Ajijic Plaza means discovering the essence of a town that gracefully blends the old with the new, the sacred with the festive, and the local with the international. Let’s take a walk through this emblematic square to uncover its stories, its art, and the timeless charm that makes Ajijic one of Mexico’s most captivating destinations.
What a “Plaza” Means in Mexico
In Mexico, the town plaza is much more than a public square — it’s the social, cultural, and historical core of the community. Usually located at the very center of town, across from the main church, the plaza serves as a meeting point for everyday life, festivals, and shared memories.
Traditional plazas are often shaded by trees and surrounded by gardens, fountains, benches, and a central gazebo (kiosco) where people gather for concerts or community events. Around them, you’ll find historic buildings, cafés, restaurants, markets, and municipal offices. For centuries, these spaces have hosted religious processions, political speeches, and artistic performances — becoming the living heart of Mexican towns.
The Ajijic Plaza, right in the middle of this picturesque lakeside town, is a perfect example. It continues to serve its purpose as a place where people come together, history is preserved, and culture thrives.
The Main Plaza of Ajijic: A Place with Its Own Soul
Ajijic is celebrated for its artistic spirit, cultural richness, and natural beauty — and its plaza captures all of that in one vibrant setting. The square brings together colonial charm and modern creativity, making it a one-of-a-kind meeting point for locals and travelers alike.
Strolling through the plaza, you’ll feel the pulse of the town: children chasing pigeons, elders chatting on benches, visitors snapping photos, and artists selling or creating their work on the spot. Unlike many other Mexican plazas, Ajijic’s stands out for its creative energy and its close ties to the artistic community that began flourishing here in the mid-20th century.
A Walk Among Murals and Sculptures
Ajijic is known as a town of artists, and nowhere is that more evident than in its plaza. Murals and sculptures tell the story of local traditions, the fusion of cultures, and the spirit of the people who call this place home.
Thanks to community efforts like GALA (Galería al Aire Libre Ajijic) — the “Open-Air Gallery of Ajijic” — the plaza has become an ever-evolving exhibition space. Large-scale photographs and art installations change regularly, celebrating the creativity and multicultural identity of the town. For art lovers and photographers, it’s a must-visit spot to capture Ajijic’s unique aesthetic.
Cultural Events and Local Festivities
The Ajijic Plaza isn’t just for quiet walks — it’s a living stage for cultural and community events throughout the year.
Among the highlights are:
- Art exhibits and open-air installations featuring local painters and sculptors.
- Civic and religious celebrations, including Mexico’s Independence Day, the Day of the Virgin of the Rosary, and Holy Week processions.
- Local traditions, such as the Rebozo Parade, the Carnival of Ajijic, and the Patron Saint Festivities, which fill the square with music, color, and joy.
Each event turns the plaza into a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture, where locals and visitors share laughter, food, and the rhythm of mariachi music.
Nearby Historical and Cultural Landmarks
The Chapel of the Virgin of the Rosary
Next to the plaza stands one of Ajijic’s most cherished buildings: the Chapel of the Virgin of the Rosary, dating back to the 16th century. Its stone façade and simple yet elegant interior reflect the colonial history of the region. For locals, it remains a sacred space for devotion; for visitors, it offers a glimpse into Ajijic’s spiritual heritage.
The Ajijic Cultural Center
Just steps from the plaza, the Ajijic Cultural Center showcases the best of contemporary art and local traditions. The venue regularly hosts exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and talks, making it a hub of creativity that explains why Ajijic has become a cultural reference point in western Mexico.
Restaurants and Life Around the Plaza
Part of what makes the plaza so lively is everything that surrounds it. The streets nearby are lined with restaurants, cafés, craft shops, and bars — each with its own character.
You’ll find cozy terraces perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee while people-watching, family-run restaurants serving homemade Mexican dishes, ice cream parlors with hand-crafted flavors, and bars with live music as the sun goes down.
If you visit during the evening, stay a little longer. As twilight falls, the warm lights, laughter, and soft melodies give the plaza a magical atmosphere that’s both relaxing and full of life.
Tips for Visiting the Ajijic Plaza
To make the most of your visit, here are a few simple tips:
- Best time to go: Sunset — the light is perfect for photos, and the air is cool.
- Dress comfortably: Ajijic’s cobblestone streets invite you to explore on foot.
- Check local events: The cultural calendar is always packed with concerts, exhibits, and festivals.
- Bring your camera: Between the murals, sculptures, and gardens, every corner is a photo opportunity.
- Take your time: Sit on a bench, chat with locals, and enjoy a traditional nieve (Mexican-style ice cream).
Conclusion: The Heart and Soul of Ajijic
The Plaza of Ajijic is not just a town square — it’s the living essence of the community. It’s where history meets art, where spirituality blends with daily life, and where visitors get to feel part of something deeply authentic.
If you truly want to understand Ajijic — its charm, its culture, and its welcoming spirit — start at the plaza. From here, everything else falls into place: the people, the art, and the rhythm of life by Lake Chapala.
GALA: The Plaza Transformed into a Gallery
But the magic of the plaza doesn’t end there. Thanks to the vision of Xill Fessenden, the plaza has been transformed into an open-air gallery under the name GALA (Galería al Aire Libre Axixic). Photographs of captivating beauty adorn the walls and fences, creating a visual journey that celebrates local life and culture.
One of the most memorable exhibitions was “Generations: The Families of Ajijic,” a tribute to the rich heritage and diversity of the community. Every so often, GALA presents new exhibitions, ensuring that each visit to the plaza is a unique experience.
A Town with Magic
The Plaza of Ajijic is a testament to the creative and vibrant spirit of this magical town. Whether to admire art, immerse yourself in history, or simply enjoy a moment of peace, the plaza invites you to discover the true essence of Ajijic.
