Toluca launches 57th Alfeñique Cultural Festival

The 57th edition of the Feria y Festival Cultural Alfeñique has commenced in Toluca, running from October 4 to November 2. Mayor Ricardo Moreno Bastida inaugurated the event, which aims to preserve centennial traditions and boost tourism in the State of Mexico. The festival features over 1,200 activities, including cultural, artistic, and artisanal displays, with an expected attendance of 4 million visitors.

To maintain a family-oriented atmosphere, the municipal government has prohibited the sale of alcohol within the organized festivities. The event highlights the work of approximately 58 artisan families who specialize in alfeñique, a traditional sugar craft used during Day of the Dead celebrations.

While the festival celebrates local identity, it has also drawn public scrutiny. Some citizens have criticized the administration on social media, questioning the allocation of funds toward festival decorations and tourism while local streets suffer from significant pothole issues and inadequate infrastructure in outlying communities.