San Miguel de Allende is a vibrant city filled with rich traditions and artistic charm. Our 2021 visit to this cultural hub was an unforgettable experience, perfectly timed with the celebrations of Halloween and Día de los Muertos. Here’s a detailed glimpse into our adventure, from face painting to exploring beautiful ofrendas and enjoying the local art scene.
A Warm Welcome: Face Painting and Flower Crowns
Immersing in Local Traditions
As soon as we arrived in San Miguel de Allende, we dove into the festive spirit by getting our faces painted by talented local artists. Just off the main plaza we found dozens of little stands lined up down a main street blocked off to traffic that day. The intricate designs and vibrant colors were stunning, each brushstroke revealing the skill and creativity of the artists. The face painting wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a cultural experience, connecting us to the rich heritage of the region. I also got a beautiful flower crown, a traditional accessory that added to the celebratory feel.
Supporting Local Artists and the Catrina Tradition
The experience was incredibly fun and immersive. For just 200 pesos (around $10-$11 USD), it was not only a great way to join in the festivities but also a wonderful opportunity to support local talent. These artists put their heart and soul into their work, and it felt good to contribute to their livelihood while partaking in an activity that has become popular in more contemporary times.
The Mexican tradition of Calavera Catrina (the dressed up skeletons) dates back to the turn of the 20th century and the political cartoonist Jose Guadalupe Posada. He created the drawings of elegantly dressed skeletons to mock the upper classes of Mexico at that time. Only much later was it combined into the traditions of Día de los Muertos.
If you ever find yourself in San Miguel de Allende, I highly recommend getting your face painted; it’s a beautiful way to embrace the local culture.
Exploring Fábrica la Aurora: A Haven for Art Lovers
Discovering a Cultural Gem
One of our favorite spots in San Miguel de Allende is Fábrica la Aurora, a former textile factory that has been transformed into an art and design center. This place is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, offering a mix of contemporary and traditional artworks. We visited several times, each visit revealing new artistic expressions and creative inspirations.
The Beauty of Ofrendas
During our visit, we were particularly drawn to the beautifully crafted ofrendas (altars) set up for Día de los Muertos. These altars, adorned with photographs, marigolds, candles, and favorite items of the departed, are a significant part of the celebration. The craftsmanship and care put into these altars are truly breathtaking, reflecting the deep respect and love for those who have passed on. Each ofrenda tells a story, a heartfelt tribute to loved ones, inviting their spirits to join the celebration.
Meeting Local Artists
While exploring Fábrica la Aurora, we had the pleasure of meeting a talented Italian artist in residence in San Miguel de Allende, Filippo Giusti. His work captures the vibrant spirit of San Miguel de Allende, depicting not just the external beauty but also the inner essence of the people. Filippo’s art is a reflection of the human soul, a blend of colors and emotions beneath the surface, that resonate with both locals and visitors.
He created his own style that he calls “Essentialism.” In his creative exploration, he poses the question: “If we were colors on the inside and I could see through the skin, what colors would we be?”
You can find him at Fábrica la Aurora and follow his creative journey on Instagram at @filippogiusti.art . He regularly shares his process, offering a fascinating insight into the world of art in progress.
Celebrating Día de los Muertos
Understanding the Celebration
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a significant Mexican holiday celebrated from October 31 to November 2. Each day honors different groups of the deceased: October 31 is dedicated to children, November 1 to adults, and November 2 to everyone. This tradition involves setting up altars, or ofrendas, to invite the spirits of loved ones to return and celebrate with their families. It’s a beautiful way to remember and celebrate the lives of the departed, filled with color, light, and love.
Participating in the Festivities
Being in San Miguel de Allende during this time was an extraordinary experience. We saw how the community comes together to celebrate life and death, creating a vibrant and heartfelt atmosphere. The streets were adorned with colorful decorations, and the air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter. We felt honored to be part of such a profound and joyful celebration, witnessing the unique ways people honor their ancestors and loved ones.
Our Last Night in San Miguel de Allende
A Memorable Evening
As our trip came to an end, we spent our last night dining at a delightful restaurant called Cielo. Dressed warmly for the evening, we headed to the heart of the city centro, for our dinner reservation. The meal was delicious, featuring local Mexican flavors and culinary delights that were a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The atmosphere was perfect for our final night in this magical city, with the soft glow of lights and the gentle hum of conversations creating an intimate and cozy setting.
Strolling Through the City
After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the city, soaking in the beautiful views of the downtown square and the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. The sight of the church, illuminated against the night sky, was breathtaking. We walked hand in hand, reminiscing about the wonderful moments we had experienced over the past few days. The charm of San Miguel de Allende was palpable, leaving us with a sense of peace and fulfillment.
A Personal Connection to San Miguel de Allende
Walking Down Memory Lane
For me, this trip was particularly special because of a personal family connection. My mom lived here for two summers in the 1970’s with my older brother and sister before I was born. She attended the Art Institute of San Miguel de Allende, and as we walked past it, we poked our heads in to see if we could take a look and were greeted by two very kind women who showed us around and enjoyed the fact that my mom had once attended art classes here. It added a layer of nostalgia and meaning to our visit, making it even more memorable.
A City That Feels Like Home
Walking through the streets that my mom once walked, seeing the places she once frequented, and experiencing the culture she once immersed herself in made me feel a profound connection to San Miguel de Allende. It was as if I was retracing her steps, discovering the beauty and charm of the city through her eyes. This personal connection made our trip even more special, creating memories that I will cherish forever.
Reflecting on a Wonderful Trip
A Perfect End to an Amazing Journey
Our visit to San Miguel de Allende was the perfect ending to an almost two-week journey through the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. Before San Miguel de Allende, we had been in Guanajuato City enjoying the Festival Internacional Cervantino which included a dazzling array of musical, artistic and theatrical performances for several weeks. It was spectacular so to get to end our trip in San Miguel de Allende for Día de los Muertos was the cherry on top.
The blend of cultural traditions, artistic experiences, and personal connections made it a truly magical trip. Día de los Muertos provided a unique and immersive way to experience the rich heritage of this beautiful and artistic city.
Unforgettable Memories
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant arts scene, the festive celebrations, or the warm, welcoming atmosphere, San Miguel de Allende is a destination that promises unforgettable memories. The city’s charm lies not just in its beauty, but in the warmth and hospitality of its people. We left with hearts full of gratitude and minds brimming with memories, looking forward to the day we can return and explore more of what this enchanting city has to offer.
Maybe even one day I can take an art class with my mom at the beautiful Institute.
For more about our journey watch our YouTube video below:
Hey people!!!!!
Good mood and good luck to everyone!!!!!
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Hey people!!!!!
Good mood and good luck to everyone!!!!!
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“San Miguel de Allende during Día de lose Muertos is pure magic. The vibrant altars, festive parades, and rich traditions make it an unforgettable cultural experience.”