Return of the Swallows (SJC)

The annual Return of the Swallows to Mission San Juan Capistrano is celebrated on St. Joseph’s Day, March 19, marking the spring arrival of cliff swallows migrating from Argentina. This historic tradition, initiated in the 1920s, features ringing of the historic bells, live mariachi music, and special festivities.

St. Joseph’s Day and the Return of the Swallows Celebration is a world-renowned tradition celebrating the annual return of the famous swallows to Capistrano. This tradition was started by Father O’Sullivan in the 1920s at Mission San Juan Capistrano, historic California landmark and home of the swallows, and is carried each year on March 19th.

The, swallows return to rebuild their mud nests, which are often found on the ruins of the Old Stone Church, signaling the start of spring.

The Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire (a separate, larger town celebration) usually occurs on the Saturday following St. Joseph’s Day.

Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675.

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