Do you already know “La Alborada”? It is the most popular fireworks celebration in San Miguel de Allende.

Published September 19th, 2021

A spectacular one-hour fireworks show is performed as an offering to St. Michael the Archangel to fill them with blessings throughout the year.

One of the most important celebrations for the people of San Miguel de Allende is the famous “Alborada” celebration that dates back to 1925 in commemoration of the patron saint of the city, St. Michael the Archangel and his fight against Lucifer. With the passing of time its popularity has increased so much that it has become an event to attract tourism.

This patron saint festivity is celebrated the weekend closest to September 29th, therefore its celebration date can vary, either for the end of September or the first days of October.

The Alborada as well as the mojigangas were created by the workers of a textile factory, since its first celebration took place with these emblematic characters decorated with lights and colors in the temple of the Immaculate Conception, later its venue changed to the Parish of San Miguel Arcángel.

The celebration begins in each neighborhood of San Miguel de Allende to later end with the biggest celebration in the historic center; large groups of people, all of them with banners in the shape of stars made with Chinese paper, alluding to the Virgin of Light, with the interior illuminated with candles; all gathered together looking towards the sky and to the rhythm of the music waiting to witness the spectacular show of explosives and fireworks that are lit from 4:00 am and end at 5:00 am: 00 am and end at 05:00 am, this as an offering to the patron saint and thus fill them with blessings throughout the year.

But the sleepless night is not a reason to stop celebrating, so the next day the party continues with a traditional show with Voladores de Papantla, burning of Judas, many traditional food stands.