Nonstop cultural events and festivals, against a romantic backdrop of narrow cobblestone streets and fine architectural details, typify the San Miguel de Allende experience. The best time to visit the town depends on your desired activities and interests. If you prefer parties, visit San Miguel around September 16, Mexico's Independence Day. For a once-in-a-lifetime religious experience, visit this predominantly Christian town during Christmas or Easter. The warm summer months make for a quiet and tranquility getaway from crowds that descend on San Miguel during the winter months.

High and Dry

Due to its high elevation -- 6,200 feet -- and desert terrain, San Miguel de Allende typically has a warm, mild climate year round. The rainy season runs from June through August. Though infrequent, these rains can be torrential, but they clear the dusty skies and refresh the dessert blooms to vibrant colors. February and March typically are the driest months. April and May generally are the hottest months, with temperatures in the high 80s. Some restaurants and other tourist-based businesses close for a few weeks in May.

Dancing in the Streets

"Travel and Leisure" magazine recommends San Miguel as one of the best places to spend Christmas. There are dances in the main town square, live bands around town and parades in the streets. The Fiestas Patrias, patriotic festivities, in September attract national and international tourists. Semana Santa, the week of Easter, is an important week filled with impressive religious processions.

Get a Deal, Book Ahead

The high tourist season typically runs from mid-December through March. The best hotel deals are found during low season, which runs during the summer months. Many restaurants also offer extended happy hour prices during low season. During the week of Easter and the week of Independence Day, September 16th, the streets are flooded with national and international families on vacation. Making hotel reservations in advance is highly recommended during these high-traffic times.

Cultural Delights

The International Festival of Jazz and Blues takes place for a week in November, bringing musicians and singers such as Lila Downs and Janusz Bakum to San Miguel. Spring in San Miguel unofficially begins in February with Candelaria, a massive annual plant sale. The Chamber Music Festival, held in August, has been running for more than three decades. The International San Miguel Writers' Conference is held every year in February, but holds events and readings all year round. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of other events organized in San Miguel both by locals and expatriates throughout the year.

About the Author

Sefira Fialkoff has worked as a writer and editor since 2004, specializing in travel, culinary and financial development articles. She has been published in the "Hartford Courant", "Santa Cruz Sentinel", "Santa Cruz Good Times" and "Grupo Idea" in Mexico. Fialkoff graduated with honors from the University of California at Santa Cruz with a Bachelor of Arts in global economics.

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