del 23 de October
al 24 de October
Galeana s/n, Col. Jalalpa Tepito. 01296
The patronal feast is traditionally celebrated at Parroquia de San Rafael Arcángel. Where the tradition of the keepers and intermediaries between the earthly world and the divine is commemorated.
This event is held every year. Saint Raphael the Archangel was traditionally celebrated on 24 October, and since the 1969 calendar reform he shares 29 September with Michael and Gabriel. Mexican parishes dedicated to him keep one or both dates, so confirm with the parish before travelling for it.
What happens. The religious core is a novena of masses in the nine preceding days, the principal mass on the day itself, and a procession carrying the image through the streets. Around it comes the fair: food stalls, rides, bands, dance groups and fireworks after dark, usually spread over several days.
Who Raphael is. The archangel of healing and of travellers, from the Book of Tobit — which is why his parishes often draw people asking for health, and why the feast tends to be busier with visitors from outside the neighbourhood than other patronal days.
Practical notes. Entry is free; the fair runs on cash. Programmes are published by the parish a few weeks ahead. Go in the late afternoon if you want both the procession and the fireworks, and ask before photographing people.
