SeeCalifornia.com

When the festive and normally sunshine-filled Swallows Day Parade marches down the intimate streets surrounding Mission San Juan Capistrano each year, the largest non-motorized parade in the U.S. really puts on an old-fashioned show. Held on Saturday, March 23, 2013 at 11 a.m., it is part of Fiesta de la Golondrinas celebrating the legend of the return of the swallows to Mission San Juan Capistrano (missionsjc.com) on St. Joseph’s Day, March 19th. They rightfully call the return a legend because some years the swallows have been upset by work around the mission where the little birds make their mud nests–and they’ve flown  off to friendlier accommodations. This year the birds are expected to arrive and stick around as Mission San Juan Capistrano celebrates not only the 55th annual parade, but also welcomes the opening of the new Gate House at the mission. The mission is an historic landmark and one of the most charming missions in California.  Be sure to visit and see it when you’re in Orange County.