If you’re looking for an event that combines tradition, folk art, and that festive touch so characteristic of the city, mark these days on your calendar. The Cartonería Festival returns for its 14th edition to the Alameda de Santa María la Ribera, an event dedicated to one of Mexico’s most iconic traditional crafts.
For four days, the public space will be transformed into a sort of open-air gallery where you can see, buy, and learn about the incredible figures made from paper, paste, and a great deal of creativity.
Organized by the Colectivo Cartoneros de la Ciudad de México, this festival aims to keep the cartonera tradition alive and bring it to new generations through cultural activities, workshops, and performances.
A festival dedicated to the art of cartoneros
Throughout the event, you can browse exhibition and sales booths featuring pieces crafted by local artisans, ranging from classic deep-red devils to fantastical figures and contemporary characters.
There will also be workshops and talks where the cartoneros themselves will share their techniques and the history behind this traditional craft. The program is complemented by musical performances, raffles, and cultural activities for the whole family to enjoy.
In addition, cultural venues dedicated to folk art will participate, such as the Pulque Museum and Pulquerías and the Itinerant Cartonería School.
The Burning of Judas, the most anticipated moment
Without a doubt, the most anticipated event of the festival is the Burning of Judas, a tradition with roots in the colonial era that symbolizes the destruction of evil and the beginning of a new cycle.
In this practice, artisans create large cardboard figures—often in the shape of devils, political figures, or representations of social issues—which are filled with fireworks.
Before reaching their final destination, the figures take part in the Judas Walk, a festive procession through the festival. Then comes the climax: the pieces spin, burst, and burn amid sparks and roars, creating one of the most colorful spectacles of Mexican folk art.
If you enjoy discovering the city’s living traditions, this festival is a great opportunity to get an up-close look at the work of master cartoneros and celebrate one of the most creative expressions of folk art.
📅 April 2–5, 2026
📍 Alameda de Santa María la Ribera (Cuauhtémoc district)
⏰ 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
🎟️ Free admission
