SIGNATURE EVENTS MARCH 19 St. Joseph’s Day & the Return


of the Swallows Celebration St. Joseph’s Day marks the return of the famous swallows to Capistrano, as well as the approaching spring. The annual celebration begins with a ringing of the historic Mission bells and follows with live music and perfor- mances and informative presentations.


MAY 10


Battle of the Mariachis The annual Battle of the Mariachis Festival celebrates the region’s Mexican roots with a full day of music, culture, dancing and food. Mariachi bands from throughout California compete before a panel of judges for cash prizes.


JUNE 28, JULY 19, AUGUST 2, AUGUST 30


Music Under the Stars The Mission opens its picturesque courtyard for five summer evening concerts featuring various tribute bands, covering notable acts


MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO


Known as the "Jewel of the Missions," Mission San Juan Capistrano is the city’s most venerated landmark and a treasure among Southern California’s historic places.


Mission San Juan Capistrano is the seventh of the state’s 21 missions, established by the


Spanish to convert California’s native peoples—in this area the Acjachemen—to Catholicism and expand Spain’s territorial boundaries. First established in 1775 by Franciscan padres, construction of the Mission came to an


abrupt halt just a few days into the project when a conflict between Spanish soldiers and Native Americans began in San Diego. Fr. Fermin Lasuen, buried the Mission bells and along with the Spanish soldiers, went to help. Once things quieted down in San Diego, Fr. Junipero Serra returned to San Juan Capistrano, recovered the bells, resumed construction and re-established the Mission on All Saint’s Day, Nov. 1, 1776, now known as Founders Day. In 1779, the state’s first wine producing grapes were cultivated on the Mission grounds, mak-


ing it the birthplace of the California wine industry. Construction of the Great Stone Church, which was to be the most majestic of all mis-


sion churches with its 120-foot-tall bell tower and cross-shaped structure, began in 1796 and took nine years to complete. In 1812 an earthquake struck, killing 40 people and reducing the church to ruins which have been preserved and still stand on the Mission grounds today. Serra Chapel, built in 1782 and the oldest California structure still in use, still hosts mass,


making the Mission not only a place of historical and cultural significance, but a place for wor- ship and inspiration as well. Along with tours, the Mission hosts fun and educational experiences each week as well as a


series of special signature events throughout the year. From the summer concert series and a family camp out to celebrating the annual return of the swallows and a benefit gala, the Mis- sion offers plenty of reason to visit year-round. —Andrea Swayne


30 | San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce Business Directory & Visitor Guide | visitsjc.com San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce | Business Directory & Visitor Guide


from The Beatles to the Rolling Stones. Guests bring their own food and drinks and can dine picnic-style, either on the lawn or at special tables.


JULY 11 Night at the Mission


Families are invited to bring their sleeping bags and camp overnight in the Mission. The evening includes dinner, a flashlight tour, games, crafts and a pancake breakfast.


SEPTEMBER 12


Romance of the Mission Benefit Gala


The Mission’s most lavish event is also one of its biggest fundraisers. This formal affair begins with a cocktail reception in the Mission’s gar- dens and follows with a four-course dinner and concert in the courtyard. Proceeds benefit the Mission Preservation Foundation’s efforts.


DECEMBER 6


Christmas at the Mission The Mission joins in on the city’s annual


Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony with its own holiday celebration. While the historic Mission is lit up with festive lights and decorations, visi- tors can enjoy local musical and dance perfor- mances, food vendors and a Santa’s workshop especially for kids.


For exact times and dates of events or for more information, visit www.missionsjc.com and click “Signature Events” under the “Activities” tab. The Mission is located in the heart of downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Ortega Highway and Camino Capistrano.


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