The Return of the Swallows to San Juan Capistrano

byrcharinhp99

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Updated 1 year ago

The Return of the Swallows in San Juan Capistrano

The swallows, according to legend, migrate annually to Goya, Argentina in October, and return to their spring and summer home in San Juan Capistrano each March. The Swallows celebration began centuries ago when Mission padres observed that the birds return coincide with St. Joseph’s Day, March 19th.

San Juan Capistrano is the 7th Mission

Mission San Juan Capistrano became the seventh of 21 missions to be founded in Alta, California. It was established to expand the territorial boundaries of Spain and to spread Christianity to the Native peoples of CA.

Swallows Return to Argentina

Every year around the Day of San Juan (October23), the famous cliff swallows of San Juan Capistrano swirl into the sky and head back to their wintering grounds in Argentina, 6,000 miles south. And they faithfully return every spring in March. https://youtu.be/UctouTHSJ2g

Barn Swallows Return to the Same Nest

Each year 44% of all barn swallows will return to the nest in the same area they nested the previous year. The swallow’s migration and re-appearance coincides with winter’s end. The birds usher in a brighter, more colorful season. Swallows symbolize good luck and positive change.

Return of Swallows is Worldwide Event

The return of the swallows in March is a highly anticipated event around the world. Swallows are migratory birds that spend the winter months in warmer climates and return to their breeding grounds in the Northern Hemisphere. The exact timing of their return can vary, but it typically occurs in March or April.

Cultural Event

The return of the swallows is a cultural phenomenon, with events such as the arrival of the swallows at the Mission San Juan Capistrano in California attracting tourists from around the world.

Swallows Support the Environment

Swallows play an important ecological role as insectivores, helping to control insect populations and maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

Challenges of Swallows

Swallows and other migratory birds face numerous challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, and other factors that threaten their populations. Efforts are underway around the world to protect and conserve migratory birds, including swallows. https://youtu.be/NhoJ0BY-i1U

The Celebration Includes:

• Typical Highlights of the Day

• Ringing of the historic bells

• Live Mariachi music

• Community presentations

• Native American Storytelling

• History of St. Joseph’s Day and Swallows Legend

• St. Joseph’s Table Hosted by Vicky Carabini, MPF Board Member

• Complimentary Tours

• Craft Station for Kids and more

Peace & Love

Rachele