San Miguel

(Saint Michael the Archangel)

📍 Address: San Miguel Catholic Church, Talofofo, Guam

ABOUT SAN MIGUEL

Dates: September 26, 2026

Location: Talofofo

Time: 5:00 PM

Welcome to God's Country: The Fiesta of Talofofo

Located in the lush, green southern hills of the island, the village of Talofofo celebrates its patron saint, San Miguel (Saint Michael the Archangel). Affectionately known by locals as "God's Country"—a nickname coined by former Mayor Tito Mantanona that is now proudly displayed on signs throughout the community—Talofofo is a deeply peaceful and scenic village. This late-September fiesta is a robust celebration honoring the archangel who protects the faithful, perfectly reflecting the quiet strength and deep roots of this southern municipality.

For visitors, the Talofofo fiesta offers a spectacular scenic drive and a taste of true southern ranching culture. Away from the bustling coastal resort districts, it provides an authentic look into a village defined by its river valleys, historic caves, and incredibly welcoming residents.

THE HISTORY OF THE VILLAGE AND PARISH

The name Talofofo is believed to derive from the CHamoru phrase entalo' i fe'fo', meaning "between the cliffs," or fo'fo', meaning a "bubbling spring". Long before Spanish colonization, ancient CHamorus lived in settlements along the Talofofo and Ugum rivers, and archaeological artifacts show they utilized the famous Talofofo Caves for shelter during severe typhoons.

The Catholic history of the area dates all the way back to 1672, when the Spanish Jesuit missionary Padre Diego Luis de San Vitores ordered the very first church to be built at the Pigpug settlement near Talofofo Bay. As the village developed into the modern, inland community centered around its famous four-way intersection, the San Miguel Catholic Church was built just north of this crossroads to serve as its spiritual anchor. Honoring Saint Michael—the warrior archangel and leader of the heavenly army—is a fitting tribute for a village that has endured centuries of typhoons and history.

FIESTA TRADITIONS: SOUTHERN ABUNDANCE AND FAITH

Because Talofofo is situated in the fertile interior and is historically home to a rich farming and ranching community, the fiesta here is deeply tied to the land.

The Procession

At 5:00 PM, the procession of San Miguel begins. Devotees walk the routes near the central four-way intersection, which serves as the heart of economic and social activity for the small village. Carrying the image of the Archangel, the faithful pray for protection over their homes, their farms, and their families. Set against the backdrop of the southern hills and the quiet, suburban-style neighborhoods, the procession is a serene and powerful display of community faith.

The Village "Gupot" (Party)

Talofofo's agricultural identity ensures that the fiesta table is spectacular.

• Harvest and Ranching: Because of its inland location and farming roots, the "Gupot" heavily features local produce and hearty meats. Expect generous servings of Kadon Pika (spicy chicken stew), smoked pork, and starches like taro and yams, right alongside the classic CHamoru Red Rice.

• God's Country Hospitality: The atmosphere in Talofofo is wonderfully relaxed. Visitors and families from neighboring villages are welcomed with the legendary hospitality of "God's Country", enjoying live local music, storytelling about the old river settlements, and a profound sense of island unity.