Ever since the first Pan American Games were held in Buenos Aires, Argentina in February 1951, they have more than lived up to their moniker of “America, Espirito, Sport, Fraternité”  or “The American Spirit of Friendship Through Sports.”

A successful Pan American Games requires a community effort and there has been no shortage of team spirit in Guadalajara, with 30,000 local citizens registering to volunteer during the games.

Billions of pesos were spent building impressive new sports stadiums and complexes. Many existing metro area sports arenas were rebuilt or extensively refurbished to be considered Pan American-quality venues.

Venues at sites away from the metro area give the games a regional profile.

These symbols have been important public relations tools to gain public support for the Panamerican Games during a long period of construction and roadway upheavals.

Find out the dates and venues of all the Pan American sports during the 16 days of the games.

For centuries, travelers to Guadalajara have fallen in love with the city’s rich colonial heritage, the woeful music of its mariachi bands, its stirring folk dances, bustling markets, classic local cuisine, cultural diversity and, not least, the twinkling eyes of its young women, generally considered the most beautiful in all Mexico.

A rich cultural program has been planned in conjunction with the Pan American Games, with events covering genres to suit all tastes and ages.

Renowned for its idyllic climate and hospitable people, the Ribera de Chapala rates as a convenient and delightful get-away destination for athletes and visitors attending the 2011 Pan American Games.

The Pan American Games are not only happening in Guadalajara and Lake Chapala, but in 4 other areas of Jalisco as well:

Jalisco is arguably the most emblematic of all of Mexico’s 32 states. After all, it is the birthplace of mariachi and tequila – two of the country’ best-known contributions to world culture!

The Parapan American Games will take place several weeks after the main event, from November 12-20, with 1,500 athletes from 26 countries competing in 13 sports.

The U.S. Consulate General congratulates the city of Guadalajara for having been chosen to host the 2011 Pan American Games and Parapan American Games.

The Consulate of Canada in Guadalajara is very pleased to welcome all Canadian athletes, their friends and family, and Canadian visitors to the 2011 Pan American and Parapan American Games.