Villa Juarez, San Luis Potosi 5.08

Villa Juárez is a city located in the central part of the Mexican state of San Luis Potosí. It was founded in 1643 as Santa Gertrudis de Carbonera. In 1928 the name was changed to Villa Juárez to honor Benito Juárez, one of México's most admired presidents.LocationIts geographic location is and its altitude is 1100 meters above sea level. The municipality extends throughout 18 small villages including El Granjenal, Palo Seco, and Puerta del Río. Villa Juarez is surrounded by Cerritos to the north, Rio Verde to the east and south, and with San Nicolás Tolentino to the west.HistoryIt was founded in 1643 as Santa Gertrudis de Carbonera and in 1928, the name was changed to Villa Juárez due to the expansion of population.EconomyAgriculture made up most of Villa Juárez's economy. Hot peppers (mainly serrano) and corn were the major elements of this economy. Lack of capital to invest in farming has recently declined production.CultureVilla Juárez, like many other Mexican towns and cities, hosts a traveling carnival in honor of its patron saint, Santa Gertrudis. It begins about two weeks before the main day which is November 16. This carnival is made up of dozens of booths that sell artifacts, ceramics and artifacts, regional delicacies, food, drinks, games, literature, and small widgets among other things. Rides are also a main attraction of the carnival. A stage is also assembled for shows, regional and national folklore dances, musicians, speeches, and plays. Aside from this festival, Villa Juarez and its surrounding municipalities, often hold events known as "Jaripeos" which involve the riding of bulls without much, if any, protection gear. Many tourists come from all parts of the state of San Luis Potosí and from the United States (such as Texas, Illinois, Georgia,California, Wyoming and Nebraska) for this traditional event. These tourists also Vacation in Villa Juarez mainly in the Summer and Winter time. Many of the natives like to go back to Villa Juarez to get married, baptize children etc. around this time as well.