by Ben Beckhart, volunteer FELISMA

FELISMA is a distinguished literary event, a cultural movement in San Miguel. Blending writer's conference, literary festival, and book fair, over five inspiring days (February 12-16) it hosts workshops, panels, and readings featuring some of the most celebrated voices in American and Latin American literature, as well as emerging talents. Events are held in the majestic Museo de Allende, while the book fair sets up in the Jardin. Past luminaries such as Sandra Cisneros, Ruth Behar, and Richard Blanco have graced its stages, sharing their wisdom and creativity.

Often compared to Mexico City's or Guadalajara's literary festivals, FELISMA stands out for its intimate charm and deep connection to the community. Founded 21 years ago by San Miguel's celebrated poet, novelist, and essayist Victor Sahuatoba, FELISMA was born from his vision to promote Spanish-language literacy and a love for books. Victor envisioned San Miguel as a hub for creativity—a place to cultivate new literary voices reminiscent of Ignacio Ramírez, "El Nigromante." Since its inception, FELISMA has united poets, novelists, essayists, photographers, and documentary filmmakers who share their passion for the written and spoken word with the local community and beyond.

FELISMA is open to everyone and completely free. While it is primarily in Spanish, many presentations are translated into English.

Victor Sahuatoba
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A Vision Rooted in San Miguel de Allende

Victor Sahuatoba: "I want to promote Spanish-language literature and a love for books in our multicultural and multilingual community," he shares, "Writers from all over the world have visited and settled in San Miguel, drawn by the richness of Spanish literature. Language is a window into culture, a glimpse into our heritage. San Miguel's beauty is even more vivid when experienced in its native tongue."

Through its foundation, Fundación Cultural Un Chorro de Literatura, FELISMA fosters young talent by hosting the annual "Pluma Joven" Young Writers Prize Contest. This competition provides aspiring writers with an invaluable platform to share their thoughts and emotions through the art of storytelling. For many, the contest is a stepping stone toward a lifelong journey in literature.

Victor's advocacy extends even to local prisons, where he encourages inmates to find expression through the written and spoken word.

Sandra Cisneros
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A Free Festival for the People

"FELISMA is fueled by a team of volunteers who believe literature should be accessible to all," Victor states, "It aligns with my philosophy that all events remain free and open to the public. I want locals and visitors alike to experience the magic of the written word in the enchanting setting of San Miguel de Allende. Let's celebrate the power of stories, the beauty of language, and the vibrant spirit of 'Villa Bella' at FELISMA 2025. Let's write the next chapter together." Join the Celebration

The author with poet Richard Blanco
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Mark your calendar for February 12 to 16, when San Miguel transforms into a literary haven. FELISMA's packed schedule features readings, presentations, and thought-provoking discussions. Among the distinguished participants are Sandra Cisneros (novelist & poet), Zel Cabrera (poet & journalist), Vivian Mansour (Children & Youth author), Jean Mayer (historian), Fernanda Ballesteros (novelist), Itzel Magaña (historian), Jorge Orendain (poet), Immanol Caneyada (narrator & journalist), Socorro Soto (novelist & poet), and Luis Mario Cerdo. "We will have San Miguel de Allende's talented Ted Davis (photographer), Soco Aguilar (documentary filmmaker), and Ben Beckhart (author) presenting," says Victor Sahuatoba.

Join us at FELISMA, where words come alive and stories find a home.

Program

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Ben Beckhart is a bicultural leader, business builder, investor, advisor, mentor, author, and speaker. Ben is the former CEO and Country President of several multinational companies that include Metco Inc., ACH Foods, Wrigley, General Mills, Disney, and PepsiCo Foods International. He serves on several corporate boards, mentors, coaches Executive Leadership teams and facilitates Gender Equity mentoring programs.

Ben understands the importance of nurturing character to build a lasting organization. He has lived by this principle, learning along the way. His life experience put him in situations where doing the right thing is not apparent. Ben is author of the book entitled Lead with Character. In his free time, he enjoys walking his dogs and reading. Ben and his wife are parents to three young character leaders.

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