Tequila Jalisco

Tequila is a municipality in Jalisco, Mexico, located in the north-central region, 60 km from the city of Guadalajara along the Tepic-Nogales-Puerto Vallarta highway. It has an approximate population of 50,000 inhabitants.

What does Tequila mean?

The name Tequila comes from the Náhuatl word Tecuilan or Tequillan, which means «place where it is cut» or «place where work is done.» The Indigenous people who lived in the area were called Tecuilas.

When was Tequila founded?

On April 15, 1530, Fray Juan Calero and Cristóbal de Oñate, along with Indigenous groups, besieged the current municipality and founded the town of Santiago de Tequila. However, it wasn’t until 1824 that Tequila was granted the title of Villa de Tequila. The town of Tequila is the birthplace of the artisanal drink that bears its name, with a history dating back centuries.

Why is Tequila a Magical Town?

Tequila enchants visitors with its fascinating culture, natural beauty, and entertainment. Today, there are over 20 tequila distilleries and natural sites in the area.

Due to its symbolic attributes, legends, history, significant events, and unique customs, Tequila, Jalisco, was named a Magical Town in 2003 as part of the program’s requirements.

Tequila's Traditions and Customs

The Blessing: Every day at nine o’clock in the evening, the priest from the temple offers a blessing. Three bells will ring, and from the first bell, people stand and face the temple. At the third bell, the priest gives the blessing.

The Lord of the Helpless: Before the rainy season begins, it is customary to take the Señor de los Rayos (Lord of the Lightning) out on a procession around the edges of the town, asking for rain without storms so that their crops will be abundant.

Los Cantaritos: In June, on the day of “los cantaritos”, it is customary to go out into the fields to play with cantaritos (small clay pots) shaped like little balls filled with pebbles, like rattles. The cantaritos break as part of the game.