2025 International Quince Festival: Tradition, Flavor, and Global Connection in Jalisco

From August 1 to 3, the charming town of Ixtlahuacán de los Membrillos, in the Mexican state of Jalisco, joyfully hosted the ninth edition of the International Quince Festival 2025. For three days, the heart of the town came alive with music, flavors, and artistic expression, all in honor of the quince — a fruit that not only lends its name to the town but also represents its cultural identity. The event brought together local families, tourists, and producers to celebrate the traditions that revolve around this beloved Mexican fruit.

The festivities kicked off with a vibrant parade through the town’s main streets. Colorful troupes, dancers, and marching bands enthusiastically announced the official start of the celebration. In the central plaza, two main pavilions were set up: the gastronomic pavilion, where visitors enjoyed everything from quince preserves to gourmet dishes and desserts made with the fruit; and the cultural pavilion, which featured art exhibits, craft workshops, and live music and dance performances. The festival offered something for all ages, highlighting the community’s deep pride in its heritage.

A standout element of this year’s edition was the participation of Delfim Moreira, a municipality in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. This special guest shares with Ixtlahuacán the agricultural tradition of quince cultivation. Their involvement not only enriched the cultural exchange but also led to the announcement of a formal sister-city agreement between the two towns. A delegation from Ixtlahuacán will travel to Brazil to sign a memorandum of understanding that will strengthen cultural and agricultural collaboration.

The festival program also included memorable events such as the presentation of a new book chronicling the town’s history — the third publication of its kind — a 5K and 8K race, a local wine tasting, and the beloved “Biggest Quince” contest, where local growers proudly showcased their most impressive fruit. These events not only drew crowds and encouraged community participation but also boosted tourism and brought attention to the hardworking local producers who keep the quince tradition alive.

The 2025 International Quince Festival was more than just a celebration of flavor — it was a tribute to local identity, heritage, and international friendship. Through the quince, Ixtlahuacán de los Membrillos opened its heart to the world, showcasing its vibrant culture, strong community spirit, and global outlook. For those who experienced it, the festival left behind a sweetness that went far beyond taste — the sweetness of belonging to a living tradition passed down through generations.