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Metepec, a ‘Magical Town’ in the State of Mexico, is preparing for a unique celebration of the Day of the Dead with the inaugural ‘CatrinArte’ festival. This event, running from October 29 to November 2, 2026, will showcase catrinas, barro art, and traditional festivities throughout the municipality. For those traveling from Mexico City, an affordable train option is available, with a journey from Observatorio station to Metepec costing 80 pesos.
CatrinArte Festival: A New Tradition in Metepec
Elisa Quijada, Director of Economic, Tourist, and Artisanal Development of Metepec, announced that ‘CatrinArte’ is making its debut this year, following the Cultural Quimera Festival. The five-day event aims to preserve Day of the Dead traditions and integrate them into the municipality’s cultural calendar. It will also feature a gastronomic and business corridor.
Festival Highlights: Art, Culture, and Gastronomy
The festival agenda includes an exhibition by master artisan Silvestre Sánchez, which will be open until November 2. Oaxaca, the guest state for this edition, will have a dedicated cultural space, and the Serguei Sokolov ballet will also participate. Attendees can look forward to the traditional catrinas parade through Metepec’s center and the ‘CatrinArte’ competition, where local artisans will display their work.
Traveling to Metepec by Train from Mexico City
The Insurgente Train offers a convenient way to reach Metepec from Mexico City. The train runs from Observatorio station in Mexico City to Zinacantepec, with the journey to Toluca taking approximately one hour. According to the Mexican government, the train connects with Mexico City’s Metro (lines 1 and 12), Cablebús (line 3), RTP, Cetram Observatorio, and the Poniente bus terminal.
Train Fares from Observatorio Station (as of February 2026):
- Metepec-Observatorio: 80 pesos
- Toluca Centro-Observatorio: 90 pesos
- Lerma-Observatorio: 70 pesos
- Zinacantepec-Observatorio: 100 pesos
Travel between the four stations within the State of Mexico costs 15 pesos.
Day of the Dead Celebrations Across Mexico
The ‘CatrinArte’ festival is part of a broader trend of vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations across Mexico. Michoacán, for instance, is set to host 518 activities for its ‘Noche de Muertos’ in 2026, with most events being free and commencing on October 2. Additionally, a tunnel simulating the underworld for Day of the Dead is available two hours from Mexico City, offering another unique experience for visitors.
This initiative by Metepec aims to attract both local and international tourists, offering a rich cultural experience that highlights Mexico’s deep-rooted traditions. The accessibility via the Insurgente Train is expected to boost attendance and make the festival a significant cultural highlight for the region.
Source: https://www.adn40.mx/mexico/2026-10-14/el-pueblo-magico-al-que-llegas-en-tren-desde-cdmx-por-80-pesos-y-que-estrena-festival-de-catrinas-de-barro-en-dia-de-muertos/
