San Ángel, a charming district in Mexico City, awakens with vibrant colors and nostalgic aromas every October during the Festival del Alfeñique. This annual event centers around alfeñique—delicate sugar skulls and figurines handcrafted by local artisans, marking an essential part of Día de Muertos celebrations. Walking through its cobbled streets, you’ll encounter stalls bursting with sugar art, marzipan treats, and fragrant pan de muerto, blending sensory experiences with rich cultural heritage.

The festival stretches across Plaza San Jacinto and its surrounding roads, inviting visitors to explore artisan markets and traditional workshops. The heart of this celebration is hands-on—seek out demonstrations where artisans mold, paint, and bake the intricate candy figures, telling stories of life, death, and remembrance. Engaging with creators offers insight into the patience and skill behind each piece, a blend of art and devotion fiercely guarded as tradition.

Practical advice: San Ángel’s historic center can get crowded on weekends, so visiting on a weekday maximizes your experience. Arrive mid-morning when stalls open and the light enhances the vivid colors of the displays. Bring cash; many vendors operate on a cash-only basis, and smaller bills ease transactions. Pace your walk to include local cafés where you can rest and taste authentic hot chocolate, a perfect companion to the sugary sweetness surrounding you.

Besides the festival itself, explore museums like Museo Casa del Risco or Jardin del Arte for quieter cultural immersion. Streets are lined with colonial architecture, a reminder of Mexico City’s layered history that complements the festival’s ancient roots.

Transportation-wise, San Ángel is accessible by Metrobus and local taxis; parking is limited during festival days. Comfortable footwear is a must for cobblestone streets and navigating the crowds. Weather in late October tends to be mild but can turn chilly in the evenings—layer your clothing to stay comfortable.

Festival del Alfeñique offers more than just visual delight; it stands as a lively dialogue with Mexico’s past and present. It invites you not only to observe but to taste, touch, and embrace a culture where life’s fragility is both mourned and celebrated in sugar and color. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a culture enthusiast, this event is an immersive experience—a practical journey into Mexican traditions, filled with spirited energy and artistic mastery.