On May 6, 2024, Nayarit participated in the Semana de México (Mexico Week) in Chicago, an event organized by the General Consulate of Mexico located in the city. The event included three days of showcasing crafts, dances, cultural exhibits, and featured participation from Mexican wine and spirits producers in specialized tastings.

Nayarit, known as the “Jewel of the Pacific,” stood out in the exhibition with its artisanal creations and designs crafted by artisans from the Sierra de Nayarit: Macario Matías, Modesto Rivera, and Gilberto Díaz.

The exhibition took place at Navy Pier from May 3rd to May 5th, alongside other artisans from the states of Chihuahua, Querétaro, and Durango. Beyond beautifully handcrafts, Nayarit brought the essence of its land through its wines and spirits. The wines “Meseta del Cielo” and the artisanal wine “Wixárico” carried the ancestral flavors of the region, evoking the magical essence of Nayarit’s landscapes with every sip.

But Nayarit’s brilliance extended beyond wine. Tequila also made its presence felt, with the brand “Real de Ixtlán” and the distilled spirit “Tuchi”, showcasing Nayarit’s mastery and passion in contributing to Mexico’s rich distilling heritage. These spirits, infused with the essence of blue agave, transported attendees to the agave fields that characterize the region where sun and earth unite to create a unique beverage.

The opening ceremony, led by Ambassador Reyna Torres Mendivil of the General Consulate of Mexico in Chicago, also saw the presence of Marilynn Gardner (President and CEO of Navy Pier), Senator Cristina Castro from the state of Illinois, and other authorities and representatives from participating Mexican states.

About Nayarit: Nayarit is a state in western Mexico, situated between the forested mountains of the Sierra Madre Occidental and the Pacific Ocean. Beyond its beaches, Nayarit boasts mountains, volcanoes, freshwater lagoons, colonial towns, and a rich cultural heritage. The region is home to various indigenous ethnic groups, including the Coras, Huicholes, Tepehuanos, and Mexicaneros, who welcome visitors to explore their crafts and share in their festivities. This area is known as the Valle Nayarit.

Riviera Nayarit, with its 192 miles of coastline, it’s home to the colonial city of San Blas. The 16th-century fortress of San Basilio once protected the area from pirates. To the south, you’ll find surf-friendly beaches in Bahía de Matanchén, while to the north lies Isla de Mexcaltitlán, considered the cradle of Aztec civilization.