Explore the Colorful Day of the Dead Festival in Toluca

This 8-hour tour offers an engaging way to experience Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions through the lens of Toluca, a charming colonial city. For $73 per person, the tour includes visits to iconic sites like the Toluca Cathedral, bustling craft markets at Portales, and the Alfeñique Museum, plus the chance to see the Alfeñique Fair with its sweets, concerts, workshops, and street art.

While the tour provides a well-rounded look at local customs and the Alfeñique Fair, it’s important to note that reviews highlight some logistical issues, including early pickups and language barriers. Still, it remains a compelling choice for those eager to see Day of the Dead traditions beyond Mexico City, especially if you appreciate cultural festivals, historic architecture, and Mexican sweets.

Key Points

Duration: Around 8 hours from start to finish
Includes: Visits to Toluca Cathedral, Portales, and the Alfeñique Museum
Special features: Alfeñique Fair with sweets, concerts, and workshops during October and November
Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with pickup service from Mexico City
Cost: $73 per person with all fees and taxes included
Limitations: Guide language may be limited in English, and some logistical challenges are possible

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Departure from Mexico City and Pickup Details

The tour begins early at Fiesta Americana Reforma, located at Av. P.º de la Reforma 80, Juárez, CDMX. The pickup time is 8:00 am, and the tour concludes back at the same meeting point. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride to Toluca, approximately a one-hour drive.

Visiting Toluca’s Historic Center and Religious Sites

The tour kicks off with a 30-minute stop at the Toluca Cathedral in the city’s historic center. This imposing structure is a highlight for those interested in architecture and religious history. The guide leads you through the area, giving insights into the city’s colonial past.

Next, the Portales de Toluca welcomes visitors for a 2-hour exploration of local craft stalls. This lively market is filled with crafts related to Day of the Dead, offering colorful souvenirs, decorations, and traditional Mexican items. It’s an ideal spot for souvenir shopping or simply soaking in the vibrant festive atmosphere.

Discovering the Alfeñique Sweet Tradition at the Museum

The Alfeñique Museum is the highlight for many visitors interested in Mexican sweet-making traditions. The museum dedicates its exhibits to Alfeñique, a sugar-based sweet used prominently during the Day of the Dead celebrations. The 1-hour visit provides a closer look at the history, craftsmanship, and significance of these traditional candies.

The Alfeñique Fair takes place during October and November in Toluca, featuring gastronomic exhibitions like chocolate calaveritas and other Mexican sweets. The fair also hosts concerts, workshops, and street art, creating a festive environment full of color and sound.

Highlighting the Day of the Dead Customs and Offerings

The tour includes a visit to Civic Square, where offerings and altars are displayed during the festival. This part of the experience offers a glimpse into Mexican rituals and customs honoring ancestors. The lively street scene is complemented by legend stories and folkloric performances, which bring the traditions to life.

While some aspects of the festival may be weather-dependent or vary year-to-year, the fair during October and November is an essential part of the local Day of the Dead festivities. Visitors can observe sugar skull decorations, flower offerings, and cultural performances that showcase the region’s unique way of celebrating.

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Practicalities and Considerations

The included features of this tour are broad: all fees and taxes are covered, and the transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. However, lunch is not included, so travelers might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the day.

Some reviews point out logistical hiccups, such as early pick-up times and challenges with the guide’s English communication. Road closures during the return trip can cause delays, and the guide’s advice to use pedicabs has been reported as inconvenient and extra-costly. These issues highlight the importance of being flexible and prepared for potential minor disruptions.

Comparing Similar Tours and Activities

For those interested in broader Mexican cultural experiences, the tour’s price and length are comparable to other day trips, such as visits to Teotihuacan or hot-air balloon flights. However, this tour offers a more focused celebration of the Day of the Dead, emphasizing local customs, sweets, and historic sites.

If you seek more transport options or guided interpretation, exploring other tours might be beneficial. Still, for an authentic peek into Toluca’s Day of the Dead festivities, this tour provides a solid introduction, especially during the fair season.

Final Thoughts on the Day of the Dead in Toluca Tour

This 8-hour tour is a practical way to experience Mexico’s vibrant Day of the Dead traditions outside of Mexico City. The highlights like Catedral de Toluca, the craft markets at Portales, and the Alfeñique Museum make for a well-rounded cultural day.

While some logistical issues and language barriers are noted, the included visits and access to the festival atmosphere offer good value for the price. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see local customs, enjoy Mexican sweets, and explore Toluca’s historic charm. If you’re comfortable with flexible timing and a smaller group, this tour can be a rewarding cultural outing.

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Day of the Dead in Feria del Alfenique Toluca

3.0

“Picked up way to early. Everything was closed for three hours. Nothing to see or do. Booked an English tour and guide did not speak on word of Engl…”

— tracy d, Nov 2021