March 18-21, 2010
Land
of Kumeyaay Elder, Doņa Estefani
Aguaje
de La Tuna
Tecate,
Baja California
What
you should wear and what to bring:
Wear regalia or ceremonial attire. If you do not have ceremonial dress, you may wear light-colored attire for dancing
in ceremony. Please dress modestly, bring positive respectful energy, and an open heart. No short shorts,
halter tops or low cut blouses. Women should wear long skirts for dancing and sweatlodge. Men may wear shorts. Women on their
moon (menses) should speak with one of the female elders before entering the ceremonial circle and sweatlodge.
Bring your camping supplies including tent if you are planning on
staying at the campsite. This includes blankets, extra towels, plenty of drinking water, to share with the community.
Where
to stay:
You are welcome to camp at the Danza site. There will be portable
bathrooms, but no shower or cooking facilities. There are a few hotels downtown about 6-8 miles away in downtown Tecate. However,
it is strongly recommended that you stay on-site as it can be a challenging drive into town after dark.
The weather ranges from 70-80F in daytime to low 40s at night.
The town of Tecate has access to supermarkets, an internet cafe, and other amenities. It is recommended that you do not travel
after dark alone.
Directions:
Tecate, California is located 35 miles southeast of San Diego on 94
East, the border is located one block from the only gas station.
From
Yuma/El Centro, take I-8 West to Buckman Springs Exit, turn left and continue south, it turns onto Hwy. 94 West (you'll
see signs to Potrero and Dulzura) to Tecate, CA.
To
gathering: Once you cross the border turn left at the 2nd light (Avenida Juarez). You should see Hidalgo Park
ahead. Turn left onto Avenida Juarez -- you'll be heading east, turn right at Calle Ortiz Rubio at the next light, pass the
McDonald's which you will see on your left, and continue on Hwy 3 (South towards Ensenada) about 1-2 miles at which point
you should see Restaurant El Cabo Mariscos Seafood and Hotel Rosita at KM 97 on the left side. Turn left at the
road right before Hotel Rosita then follow small signs or red arrows that will be posted on trees along the road. The road
is rough but usually manageable by most cars - although it is easier for SUVs. See link to map of downtown Tecate below.
Cost
to attend:
There is no charge to attend the ceremony, however cash donations
to the elders and Grandfather Kachora are very much appreciated -- and needed. Your donation in any amount, whether it's $10,
$20, or $100, will help pay for the costs of buying gasoline, wood for sweatlodge and cooking, renting port-a-potties, and
buying food and water. It is also customary to offer tobacco to the Elders and the ceremonial leaders of the Danza and Sweatlodge.
