Mexico has not had a presence in Balboa Park’s House of Pacific Relations (HPR) for 80 years, despite being one of the early members of the group. It was a member of HPR from 1935 to 1941 when it discontinued in the organization for unknow reasons. In 2001, a group of San Diegans worked to revive The House of Mexico (HOM) and approached the HPR about rejoining the organization. The House of Mexico was finally voted in as a member of HPR in 2004. Enrique Morones spearheaded the revival effort with the help of many dedicated individuals, including, Mateo Camarillo, who played a major role as he donated his time and effort in developing the articles of incorporation and the bylaws. The mission of HOM is to promote the beauty, history, and culture of Mexico.

In 2016, after more than 20 years, countless volunteers, supporters, board members, and presidents (Enrique Morones, Eunice Munro, Arturo M Castro, Sonia Ruiz, Carlos Cristiani, Blanca Gonzalez, Bertha Hernández), the City Council approved amending the Balboa Park Precise Master plan to allow for the construction of five buildings for nine new cottages which includes a cottage for the House of Mexico. The House of Mexico will be housed in a duplex building. It will join the other nations/cultures currently represented in Balboa Park. This is a major step forward in the recognition of the importance of Mexico and all that it offers to the community and visitors.

While we are closer to achieving our dream, we still need financial support for the final phase of construction. The HOM cottage is slated for completion in Spring of 2021.

The House of Mexico is comprised of dedicated individuals and community partners who seek to develop an appreciation and understanding of our beloved Mexico by utilizing a goodwill ambassadorial approach. Over the years, volunteers have participated in a series of major events held in Balboa Park and throughout the region.

These events have included:

• The Lawn Program, held annually at the International Cottages venue. It is an afternoon of live music, ballet folklórico, and delicious Mexican food.
• The Ethnic Food Fair, a grand event attended by thousands and hosted by HPR on Memorial Day weekend. It features traditional food, drink, and entertainment representing the member houses.
• December Nights, held since 1977 on the first weekend of December and formerly known as Christmas on the Prado. It is a family fun event that provides free admission to park museums, music and dance entertainment, and member houses sell traditional holiday food and beverages from around the world.
• Arte, Color y Fiesta, initially a fundraising festival celebrating art. It featured an exhibition of artwork by renowned artists from the United States and Mexico. There was also food, music and dance. It has now become a major event to commemorate and celebrate Mexico’ s Independence through music and entertainment. A major event for the region.

With the construction of its cottage, the House of Mexico hopes to expand and enrich its educational and cultural programs for future generations, and visitors to the park.

Blog post submitted by Arturo Castro