del 23 de October
al 24 de October
De 08:00 a 20:00
Andador Marchena s/n, Col. San Rafael Azcapotzalco. 02010
The festivities are held in honor of St. Raphael the Archangel, celestial healer and member of the royal guard of God.
This event is held every year. The patronal feast of Saint Raphael the Archangel falls on 24 October in the traditional calendar, and on 29 September in the reformed one, which since 1969 celebrates Michael, Gabriel and Raphael together. Many Mexican parishes keep the older October date; check with the parish before planning a trip around it.
What happens. Nine days of masses leading up to the feast, the principal mass on the day, and the procession with the image of the archangel through the streets of the neighbourhood. The atrium is dressed with flowers and paper cut-outs, dance groups perform, a band plays, and the fair outside — food, rides, fireworks — runs for several days.
How these feasts are organised. By the mayordomía: the household or group of families that takes responsibility for the year's celebration and pays for much of it. It is an honour with a long waiting list, and it is the reason the feast survives independently of any institution.
Practical notes. Free entry, cash at the fair, programme published by the parish shortly beforehand. Ask before photographing people or the image.
