There’s no shortage of ways for groups to enjoy the authentic heritage of Guadalajara, whether they’re appreciating the complexities of a “rested” tequila as they gaze over a valley of blue agave plants in the nearby town of Tequila or applauding a smiling couple as they perform the Jarabe Tapatio (Mexican Hat Dance).
Procesa (www.procesaeventos.com) is one of several local DMCs that can help planners arrange exceptional agendas for groups gathering in Guadalajara, setting itself apart with activities and events that capture the true spirit of the region.
“We specialize in very unique programs that make the history and culture of the destination come alive,” says Lupita Villaseñor, co-owner of the company. “We try to add unique elements to every program, such as our Mexican theme parties with special entertainment or our group city tours, where we have someone talking about the [Jose Clemente] Orozco murals at Cabañas Cultural Institute and the Government Palace.”
Villaseñor says Procesa’s programs take full advantage of Guadalajara’s distinctive traits, utilizing culturally significant venues and incorporating interactive activities.
“Guadalajara is very unique because of its historical, colonial-era district, Tlaquepaque arts and crafts town, tequila, and mariachis,” Villaseñor says.
In the city, Procesa organizes interesting programs such as special dinners at venues like the Regional Museum of Jalisco and the Casa Lopez Portillo, and a pre-Hispanic dance representing the battle between the Spanish conquistadors and the native civilization, which takes place in Founders Plaza behind the landmark Degollado Theater.
In Tlaquepaque, Procesa brings groups to an artist studio for a hands-on ceramics class, then to a candle studio to learn how to make candles, followed by a tour of a hand-blown glass factory. The program can also include a cocktail reception at the gallery of famous Mexican artist Sergio Bustamante, and while the group is walking through the charming town, they are entertained with live music by a Mexican trio.
Procesa’s other group excursions head to scenic Chapala Lake, the quaint artisan town of Ajijic and Guachimontones archaeological site. One of the company’s most popular programs is a trip to Mundo Cuervo in the town of Tequila.
“Groups see the agave plantations, tour the distillery, design their own tequila bottle and have a special dinner in the historic hacienda with a spiritual show that represents the Huichol culture of Mexico,” Villaseñor says. “Mundo Cuervo is quite a high-class tour.”
Procesa, which organizes programs in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, specializes in incentives ideally ranging in size from 200 people to 300 people, and also provides services for meeting and convention groups.
