Jalpa, Zacatecas

Jalpa is a small town located in the Mexican state of Zacatecas, close to the border with Jalisco and about a three hour drive south of the capital city, Zacatecas. Jalpa is a colonial-style city, with cobble stone streets, narrow walkways, impressive cathedrals and a plaza.

Population: There are between 25,000 and 35,000 people living within the town and the surrounding ranches. The population continues to grow as Jalpa is becoming a significant transportation hub between the cities of Guadalajara, Aguascalientes, and Zacatecas. A large percentage of the population is older than 55; and there are significantly more females than males; the female to male ratio is about 61% to 39%. Generally speaking, the population of Jalpa is more white than other parts of Mexico. Although there are indigenous residents and mestizos, they do not dominate the population as in many other Mexican towns.

Economy: Much of the growth in Jalpa is fed by remittances in US dollars from former residents who have emigrated to the United States. Almost every family has at least one member, usually male, residing in the US (California, Texas, Illinois, North and South Carolina.) Most family members receive US dollars from those living in the United States ("El Norte.") There are no known factories in this town that export goods. Farming activity is also decreasing due to a water table shortage in the region's aquifer. Many plantations that used to grow guayaba and sugar cane in the 70's, 80's, and early 90's, have been replaced with agave fields. Other crops are: maize (corn), bean, sugar cane, alfalfa, calabaza (pumpkin), and the cactus tuna.

Life in Jalpa: Jalpa is a very clean and quiet town (pueblo.) Most retailers still close daily during the "siesta" hour, which is from 2:00pm to 4:00 pm. The main plaza (Arechiga) is frequently visited by the older generation throughout the day. The "town" gives its residents limited amounts of potable water for usage. Residents get water about two times a week; so most residents rely on a tank on their roof ("tinaco") for water storage.

December: In December the fair visits Jalpa and everyone is united. "La Feria Que Nos Une" The Fair that unites us" That is Jalpa's Motto. In December everyone celebrates, there's parties and many more things. For Example, every year theres a Group or a Singer that performs at a dance. There's also a competition between girls who are competing for the Queen of Jalpa. People vote for their favorite and at the end the winner is crowned. Each year a new winner is chosen. Throughout December there are posadas. People go from house to house asking for shelter just as Jesus and Maria did. In Jalpa everyone is Family and everyone is Wonderful. Jalpa is a very nice, pretty, happy place to be at and even live at.