Firefly Sanctuary
2025-06-15 09:00 - 2025-06-16 18:00 (America/Mexico_City) | Select a State:
Firefly Sanctuary

July 9/10. 2 seats Open
July 15/16 SOLD OUT
July 23/24 *Last trip of the year. 15 seats available
We are going on an adventure. Last year was so much fun, that we asked Miguel to organize a trip again for us this year.
Once in a lifetime~
Did you know there are four Firefly Sanctuaries in the world and one is 3.5 hours from San Miguel de Allende? Join us as we journey into the magical forest and dance with the lightning bugs.
Check this out to learn about the tour
https://youtu.be/ZYdlNyZIem4?si=fhB8zTJ8WWi4hIS3
Firefly Sanctuary
Overnight Glamping trip to the Firefly Sanctuary. The trip will include RT deluxe transportation, Top notch Glamping, 4-amazing meals, entrance into Firefly Sanctuary, a Pulque and kombucha tasting, bonfire w/s’mores, a Temazcal (sweat lodge) and more!
We will stay at Glamping Octli, the premier lodging option for the Firefly Sanctuary plus activities like pulque tasting and temazcal ( not to be missed). Each tent has quality furnishings, excellent bedding, warm blankets, heater, a private full bathroom with flushing toilet and hot showers. Glamping at its finest
COST: $4700 pesos per person ($235 usd) double occupancy inclusive $7000 single occupancy
GLAMPING: Either a double bed (couple) or 2 twins shared tent or double bed (single occupancy)
TRANSPORTATION – Quality Van seats 20 with under and overhead storage, very nice way to travel. Bathroom breaks and stretch your legs.
PAYMENT- Directly to Octli Tours either Credit Card, PayPal or Mexican bank
INCLUSIVE- RT transportation, meals, lodging, tour, temezcal, and more… just pack your overnight bag and enjoy
LINK to reserve your spot
https://fireflysanctuary.mx/activities/tour-san-miguel-de-allende-firefly-sanctuary
ITINERARY
First day and over night
* 9 am Departure from Plaza Luciernaga (Panio)
* 1 pm Arrival to Glamping Octli
* 2 pm Lunch at Glamping Octli
* 4 pm Pulque Tasting
* 6 pm Departure to the Fireflye Sanctuary
* Buffet Dinner at Firefly Sanctuary
* 9:30 pm Return to Glamping Octli
* 10:00 pm Firepit with s’mores
Second day and return
* 8:00 am Breakfast at Glamping Octli
* 9:00 am Temazcal at Glamping Octli
* 12:00 pm gather gear & Check-out
* 1:00 pm Lunch at Glamping Octli
* 2:00 pm Departure to San Miguel de Allende
* 6:00 pm Arrival to Plaza Lucierna
What to know:
* We will be in the mountains so it will be colder and wetter. Fireflies love cold and wet.
* Wear dark clothing, without reflective or fluorescent colors.
* Bring an extra pair of shoes to use exclusively at the Firefly Sanctuary MX. (Waterproof) and you will want a hat.
* We recommend bringing an extra change of clothes. And a jacket.
* Pack concise. Limited luggage space.
* The use of flashlights, cell phones, cameras with flash, or any other device that emits light, music, or noise, as well as fluorescent clothing or LED shoes, is not allowed in the sanctuary.
* Bring a plastic raincoat, waterproof shoes and gloves. Umbrellas or parasols are not allowed.
* The use of mosquito repellents is NOT allowed in order to preserve the fireflies
POLICY (read the fine print)
* Access is not permitted to individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
* NOTE: Due to limited capacity, cancellations will not be accepted, and rescheduling will only be possible for a future date. NO REFUNDS once reservations are completed.
* If rescheduling to another event is necessary, availability must be verified, and the request made at least 72 hours before your check-in date.
It will be considered a no-show if the guest does not check-in before 8:30 am on the scheduled day of departure. If they arrive after this time, the amount paid up to that point will not be refunded. In the event of a no-show, the reservation cannot be valid for a later date, and there will be no refund of the total amount paid up to that point.
Feel free to reach out to Kat on WA +1 425-999-6916 or team@experienceSMA.com with questions

Fathers Day with Casa Nostra
2025-06-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Select a State:
Sunday June 15 6pm
650 pesos
Casa Nostra Father’s Day tribute plus a special gift from ExperienceSMA. Calling all fathers (two or four-legged) to join us to celebrate Fathers.

Menu
Complimentary glass of Red wine
Nest of Ceaser’s Salad
Amazing Beef (Veg or Seafood alt)
Rosemary Creamed potatoes
Bite of desert

Open invitation (all genders) to our ExperienceSMA table. Seating begins at 5:45
RSVP on ExperienceSMA.com
***Requested 50 pesos donation for rescue animals

Celebration of Life - Francine Branch
2025-06-27 13:00 - 15:00 | Lolita, Salida a Celaya 52, san Minguel de allende, GTO, 37760, Mexico
Please join us for a celebration of the life of Francine Branch

Celebration of Life – Francine Branch
Friday June 27 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pmPlease join us for a celebration of the life of Francine Branch
Tribute to Francine Please Wear Red ~ it was her favorite color
Lunch Friday
June 27 at 1pm
CHANGE of VENUE
Lolita’s
Salida a Celaya 52
*** Parking around back
We will have lunch (separate checks), a brief ceremony of remembrance (please bring your great stories of Francine) an altar of remembrance and enjoy some awesome food/drink. Her family will also be attending. Let’s show them what an awesome lady Frannie was here in SMA and how much we love her.
Please RSVP ExperienceSMA.com so we have enough seats.
Order off the menu selections to help the restaurant provide great service (they are donating the space for free so let’s support them by ordering food/drink)
If you can, bring your favorite photo of Francine or flowers for the alta

Celebration of Life – Francine Branch
Friday June 27 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pmPlease join us for a celebration of the life of Francine Branch
Tribute to Francine Please Wear Red ~ it was her favorite color
Lunch Friday
June 27 at 1pm
CHANGE of VENUE
Lolita’s
Salida a Celaya 52
*** Parking around back
We will have lunch (separate checks), a brief ceremony of remembrance (please bring your great stories of Francine) an altar of remembrance and enjoy some awesome food/drink. Her family will also be attending. Let’s show them what an awesome lady Frannie was here in SMA and how much we love her.
Please RSVP ExperienceSMA.com so we have enough seats.
Order off the menu selections to help the restaurant provide great service (they are donating the space for free so let’s support them by ordering food/drink)
If you can, bring your favorite photo of Francine or flowers for the altar.
RSVP ExperienceSMA.com
https://experiencesma.com/event/celebration-of-life-francine-branch/

4th of July BBQ
2025-07-04 15:00 - 18:00 | Stirling #12, Stirling #12, san Minguel de allende, 37754, Mexico
Join us for a 4th of July celebration Texas Style! La Marthina at Stirling #12 will be our host, Flava Chef Leif on the BBQ and Music by Dee Dub
It is going to be a wonderful afternoon not to be missed!
La Marthina Bistro
Stirling Dickinson #12 (the old expat building repurposed )
Great Music | Big Smoke | Bold Flavors
Ticket: $875 MXN
***PrePurchase required https://buy.stripe.com/8x27sLfuWfkO6j54kR43S00
No tickets sold at door.
Includes 1 loaded BBQ plate, welcome margarita, tea & dessert
CHOOSE YOUR 2 PROTEINS
Texas-style, slow-smoked, bold and juicy. * Veggie burger option
~ Texas-Style Brisket
Smoked to perfection, black bark, tender bite.
~ BBQ Sausage Links
Juicy, smoky, spiced — glazed with FLAVA’s special BBQ sauce.
~ Sticky Pork Ribs
Finger-lickin’, fall-off-the-bone, sweet ‘n’ spicy glazed
Includes Sides:
Southern soul with barrio flavor.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
→ Elote Style – chili, lime, cotija OR Classic – buttered & salted
~ Southern Slaw
Tangy crunch and cool bite
~ Potato Salad
Creamy, chilled, herbed — just like home.
~Smoky Baked Beans
Slow-cooked with spices, brown sugar is pure BBQ gold
Served with
Cornbread & Honey Butter
Golden, fluffy, and kissed with sweet butter love.
.
DESSERT
Grandpas Peach Cobbler
Warm, buttery, cinnamon-rich.
Scoop of vanilla ice cream? Just say the word.
DRINKS
Welcome Margarita and Lousiana Iced Tea
Margarita Fresh-squeezed lime, salted rim, served on the rocks.
The real Lousiana Iced Tea
Both Included with your meal.
Full Bar Available (Extra Cost)
Featuring ice-cold beer, bar service, and curated cocktails specially crafted for the celebration.
Drinks beyond the welcome margarita and tea not included in ticket price.
THIS IS NOT JUST A BBQ.
It’s FLAVA bringing the smoke,
The ExperienceSMA curating the scene,
and La Marthina Bistro setting the stage.
Stirling Dickinson #12, San Miguel de Allende
Ticket: $875 MXN – Limited Spots
Great Music • Real Vibes • No Half-Steppin
RSVP ExperienceSMA.com and you will be sent
a link to pay directly to Flava

Ladies who Lunch High Tea
2025-07-18 13:00 - 15:00 | The Tea Room, Salida a Celaya 6-iterior 5,, san Minguel de allende, Select a State:, 37754, Mexico
Ladies who Lunch High Tea
Ladies who Lunch event by ExperienceSMA hosted by Kat Sparks
When: Friday July 18 at 1pm
Where: The Tea Room
Salida a Celaya 6-iterior 5
*upstairs and yes, the elevator works.
What: Ladies Who Lunch High Tea
featuring a fortune teller tea leaf reader (sign up when you arrive reading is 100 pesos)
Menu:
– Pot of specialty tea
– Faery kissed Salad
– High Tea with savory & sweet treats
Cost: 495 pesos includes
meal, tea, fun and gratuity
What: Ladies who lunch dress up tea party and lunch. Wear your finest hat, scarf, tiara or anything that makes you feel pretty
Limit: 20 ladies (guys if you want to wear a bonnet you can join too)
Price $495 pesos includes tea, meal with savory and sweet and gratuity
We will have a tea leaf reader to personally read your tea cup 100 pesos extra to her and signup for timeslot at the event.

Launch party Complimentary food and drink on the rooftop
2025-10-16 16:00 - 18:00 | Casa Grande, 5 de Mayo 8, san Minguel de allende, GTO, 37760, Mexico
You’re Invited to the University of Expats Launch Party!
October 16th | 4-6pm (Thursday)
Casa Grande Rooftop
5 de Mayo 8, Int 12B
San Miguel de Allende
We’re finally taking this show offline! Come celebrate with us as we bring our digital community into the real world, where conversations happen face to face and the only algorithm is good vibes.
Join us for a complimentary cocktail
and nibbles on us, because nothing says “we appreciate you” like free food and booze. Christy of Clandestine Cuisine and Kat Sparks will be preparing tasty complimentary nibbles. Our resident mixologist, Leif from Flava, will be running a cash bar with wine and drinks so creative, you’ll want to know his secrets. Plus a welcome cocktail on us!
It’s time to put faces to profile pictures and turn all those online connections into real friendships. Can’t wait to see you there!
RSVP appreciated
ExperienceSMA.com
Questions: Hola@UniversityofExpats.com

Sunset Theater this Saturday RSVP to join our table
2025-10-25 16:30 - 21:00 | Select a State:
Join us for Sunset Theater

Ladies Who Lunch- Thankful ❤️
2025-11-21 14:30 - 16:30 | Casa Nostra, Terraplén 8, Zona Centro,, GTO, 37700, Mexico
Giving Thanks for the Ladies in Our Lives!
Ladies who Lunch
Casa Nostra
Friday, November 21st
2:30 to 4:30 PM
500 pesos
Ladies, I am so incredibly thankful for the women in my life, and this Ladies who Lunch is all about honoring YOU.
We’ll start by giving thanks to the women who make SMA special.
Chef Marco, the owner of Casa Nostra, has created a culinary masterpiece that’ll make your taste buds dance. And here’s where it gets really exciting, while you’re savoring this incredible meal, you’ll have the chance to win some absolutely fantastic prizes in our giveaway.
The Menu (500 pesos, taxes included, gratuity not included):
Pumpkin soup with pumpkin seeds and Kürbiskernöl from the Steiermark
This pumpkin seed oil is a delicacy from Austria’s Steiermark region and adds a lovely touch of nuttiness to the dish (a bottle of the oil is one of our prizes ❤️)
Vegetarian Caesar salad topped with Diane-style mushrooms
The mushrooms are seared with garlic and onion, refined with mustard, flambéed with brandy, and finished with a touch of cream and parsley, replicating those savory anchovy flavors
A bite of healthy but decident GF brownies so moist and delicious you’ll think you’ve gone to heaven
And because Chef Marco is as generous as he is talented, every guest will receive a special thank you gift!
Join us to celebrate friendship, the amazing women in our lives, and this beautiful town we call home.
Wear something that makes you feel fabulous🦋
Seating limited to 35 guests. RSVP on ExperienceSMA.com

3rd Annual Southern Thanksgiving
2025-11-27 14:00 - 16:30 | Casa Cent’anni, Canal 34, Zona Centro,, san Minguel de allende, GTO, 37700, Mexico
You’re Invited to Traditional Southern Thanksgiving Dinner
Thursday, November 27th | 2:00 PM
Cent’anni
Canal 34, Centro, San Miguel de Allende
Come gather around our table for a heartfelt Southern Thanksgiving celebration featuring grandmother’s treasured recipes, served family style just like the good old days. New Chef Bulmaro, has partnered with Kat Sparks curator of ExperienceSMA to recreate a Traditional Southern Thanksgiving meal based on her family recipes.
We’re talking the full spread: roasted turkey with sage dressing and rich gravy, buttery mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth, traditional green bean casserole, tangy fresh cranberry chutney, and warm rolls with honey butter plus a special pumpkin desert. Everything made with love and meant to be shared.
To make the afternoon even more special, we’re thrilled to have local artist Edy Rizo joining us. This talented San Miguel singer and multi-disciplinary artist will enchant you with her soulful voice and captivating performances. Edy creates original music blending funk, hip hop, and traditional Mexican sounds, bringing warmth and artistry to every note she shares.
Bring your appetite, your family and family of choice, bring your gratitude, and let’s celebrate together the way Thanksgiving was meant to be enjoyed.
RSVP and prepay so we can set enough places at the table.

Just to make it more like home, the chef will offer a small to go with fixings for a Thanksgiving Sandwich the next day for an additional 200 pesos
Information about our partner venue
Cent’anni (pronounced “chentani”) takes its name from the Italian toast meaning “One Hundred Years,” a celebratory wish for prosperity, health, and wellbeing. It’s an Italian restaurant and bar in the heart of Centro San Miguel de Allende that combines traditional Italian flavors with local Mexican touches.

The venue features:
• Live music regularly (it’s known as a piano bar and performance space)
• An atmosphere that’s relaxed and perfect for celebrations
• Italian cuisine including pizzas
• A good selection of local and Mexican wines
It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors who want to dance, sing, and enjoy good food in a lively but elegant setting. The restaurant operates daily from 1 PM to late (1-2 AM most nights), making it a versatile venue for everything from leisurely lunches to festive evenings.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
We look forward to you joining us.

Expat Emergency Preparedness - Street Smart in Mexico
2026-01-09 12:00 - 14:00 | Tres Fruntes Hotel at Kokumi, Stirling Dickinson #2, san Minguel de allende, GTO, 37754, Mexico
Expat Emergency Preparedness Meeting
Stirling Dickinson #2 in Tres Fruntes Hotel at Kokumi
Friday Jan 9, 2026
Noon
*please come early to enjoy a beverage or tasty dish at Komumi *previously Chikatana
Complimentary event but please buy a drink/lunch to support our host Komumi

Featured presentations by Chandler Hunt {Healthcare scams} , Kat Sparks {Scam prevention} & Attorney Marco Guzman {what to do if scammed}
Each speaker will also hold a Q&A

Additionally, University of Expats has designed a 3 module course *4+hrs that will be offered at discount price of $500 pesos cash or cc purchase of $25 usd to expand upon this topic. Normally offered at $48 usd but attendees get a discount.

What You’ll Learn in the self-paced Course
Module 1: Scam Prevention
You’ll learn what scams are currently targeting expats in Mexico, why we’re such appealing targets, how scammers think and operate, and most importantly, the daily habits that will protect you without making you feel like you’re living in a fortress.
Module 2: What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If the worst happens, you’ll know exactly what to do in the first hour, the first day, and the first week. You’ll understand how to report it, how to document everything, and how to fight for recovery. You’ll also learn about the emotional recovery process, because that matters too.
Module 3: Protecting Others
You’ll learn how to recognize when someone in your circle is being targeted, how to have those incredibly difficult conversations without pushing them away, and how to build community systems that protect everyone, not just individuals.

Join our community event, meet neighbors and learn how to protect yourself from scammers.

Romeros San Miguel’s Newest Crown Jewel
2026-02-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Romeros, San Miguel de Allende
Y’all, we need to talk about Romeros, the outstanding new addition to San Miguel’s food scene that just opened at Salida a Celaya 6-Int 5 in Zona Centro. This place is already stealing hearts, and I’m here to tell you why mine is thoroughly smitten.
From the moment you walk in, you’re treated like family. Owner Francisco himself made sure we were taken care of, and the service? Lightning fast without ever feeling rushed. It’s that magical combination where you feel pampered and relaxed at the same time.
Let me walk you through the food experience that made this Texas girl’s heart do a happy dance. Francisco started us off with a personal touch, Texas queso topped with a bit of ground beef and served with home chips that were a perfect crisp. But honey, the real star was the crispy beef taco platter. Now, at first bite I thought the meat could use more kick, but then I discovered the red sauce. This isn’t about heat, friends, it’s about flavor. The way that sauce married with the beef to create pure magic on my tongue.
And those black beans. Oh my stars, those black beans. I would write love letters home about these beauties. I’m talking about the kind of black beans that make you close your eyes and sigh with happiness. The kind you want to order a side bowl of just because. 😘
Dessert? I’m so glad you asked. Fig empanada. Just trust me on this one. Order it, take that first bite, and then you can thank me later.
Want to experience Romeros yourself? Join us next Monday at 6pm for an ExperienceSMA dinner featuring their new expanded menu. Dinners start around 200 pesos, and they’re running a margarita special at 100 pesos. Plus, live music to set the mood. RSVP direct to Kat or it will be up on our website ExperienceSMA.com
Fair warning: seating is limited, so don’t drag your feet on this one. It has been awhile since we held a community dinner and we are looking forward to seeing you.
San Miguel has a shiny new gem, and you’re going to want to be one of the lucky ones to discover it.
📍 Romero’s: Salida a Celaya 6-Int 5, Zona Centro, Guadiana, 37760
ExperienceSMA Community Dinner
6pm Feb 16th
RSVP please

Birthday Tea Party Feb 26
2026-02-26 14:30 - 16:30 | The Tea Room, Salida a Celaya 6-iterior 5,, san Minguel de allende, Select a State:, 37754, Mexico
🎉✨ BIRTHDAY TEA PARTY! ✨🎉
We’re celebrating and YOU’RE invited!
📅 Thursday, February 26th at 2:30 PM
📍 The Tea Room
Salida a Celaya 6, Interior 10
Zona Centro, Guadiana
San Miguel de Allende, Gto. 37760
Tucked in the heart of San Miguel, The Tea Room is pure charm in a cup. Come spend a magical afternoon with good people, great tea, and zero reasons to behave yourself.
👒 DRESS FOR FUN! Florals, fascinators, bowties, feathers, sequins… if it makes you smile in the mirror, wear it. Gals AND guys, this means you.
🫖 HIGH TEA ~ 500 PESOS
A gorgeous pot of tea, three tiers of sweet bites, fresh scones with cream and jam, finger sandwiches, and hot bites. Yes, all of that.
🍃 TEA LEAF READINGS AVAILABLE
Because why not peek into the future while you’re at it? Fatima is a gifted reader sosign up for reading 225 pesos
Reservations required as seats are limited!
💌 RSVP at ExperienceSMA.com
