San Miguel de Allende is one of the most exciting cities in the world. What can visitors and residents expect in the coming month? MND Local has rounded up the best of the world’s best cities so you never miss a beat.

Without further ado, here’s what’s happening in San Miguel de Allende in November:

Day of the Dead program in San Miguel de Allende – November 1 and 2

There’s nothing in the world like Day of the Dead, but what does San Miguel de Allende do to mark the occasion?

Here is an overview of what is planned for Friday: at 8:00 a.m., schools, NGOs and other associations will set up their offerings in the Main Garden. Expect crowds of enthusiastic children, proud teachers and creative displays. At 9:00 a.m. there is a huge offered exhibition in Colonia San Rafael.

Take a nap and return to the Main Garden at 6:00 p.m. for the blessing of the offeringsthen stay to watch the indigenous dance group “Tlaloc” bring the crowds to the square. At 8:00 p.m., enjoy a performance by the San Miguel de Allende Ballet. At 9:00 p.m., the “Rondalla del Amor” brings romance to the celebration, followed by a “Concheros” vigil at 11:00 p.m., filling the night with ancient rhythms and reverence.

Saturday at 10:00 a.m., La Patitas de Humanidad offered takes over the fountain of the Teatro Angela Peralta. At 6 p.m., the Catrinas Parade kicks off in Cardo, filling the streets with towering skeletons, elaborate makeup, and costumes that will make you question your own Halloween efforts. The parade ends at the corner of Correo and Corregidora, just in time for the return of Tlaloc with another electrifying indigenous dance performance at the Principal Garden, closing with the Ballet Folklórico Juvenil Mazatl.

Requiem in do menor by Luigi Cherubini – November 2

As every year, the Coro de la Ópera de San Miguel de Allende, under the direction of maestro pianist Mauro Ledesma, continues the tradition of presenting a Requiem in honor of the Day of the Dead. The Church of San Francisco, one of the most precious jewels of the city’s colonial architecturewill host the concert at 6 p.m.

The Requiem in C minor was composed by Luigi Cherubini in 1816 and premiered at a memorial service for Louis XVI of France on the twenty-fourth anniversary of his beheading. The piece was greatly admired by Beethoven and was even performed at his funeral in 1827. This concert will feature a full orchestra and choir, providing a thoughtful and moving musical experience.

Mexican Art and Design Festival – November 2 and 3

Don’t miss this festival at the Foro del Obraje, on Calzada de la Presa, near the Live Aqua Hotel, which offers a treat for the senses. Over 40 creators, gourmet food stalls, beer garden and wine, live music and children’s activities with flamenco, electronic cello, rock covers and a little country for you keep in the groove. Try your hand at one of the many workshops! Painting, macramé, orchid care, and even some sound care. There’s a picnic area, Day of the Dead activities (including Catrina’s face painting), and fun for the whole family. It’s the perfect way to support artists, enjoy delicious food, and soak up the spirit of San Miguel. Free entry and pets allowed!

Arts and Crafts Fair – November 2 and 3

In the same vein, the Instituto Allende is organizing its annual arts and crafts fair to celebrate life, art and tradition for Day of the Dead! From 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., admire stunning artwork with live music and a variety of stalls offering tasty treats. This is an event for the whole family to enjoy local creativity while honoring the holiday spirit. Come for the art, stay for the fun, and leave with something special!

Royal Gala 2024 – November 7

Get ready for an evening of glitz, glamor and giving back at the Royale Gala in support of the charity”Patronato Pro Niños”! From 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Malanquin Golf Club, start the evening with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and the gentle saxophone of Bruno Galicia. Savor the fine wines of Dos Buhos and Cuna de Tierra and the mezcal of Mata de Monte. The evening begins with a special number by Arthur Murray.

Participate in the online auction to win trips, art, jewelry, dinners, excursions and more, or feel the adrenaline rush of the exciting paddle auction led by auctioneers Eli and Joseph. Explore the food stations curated by Parvada and dance to the music of Patrick Herlin. Proceeds help provide essential care to children in need. Don’t miss this fun and meaningful evening!

Tickets cost US$150 and are available at Club Malanquin or online at www.patronatoproninos.org.

Night of Zarzuela – November 8-9

At 6:30 p.m. both evenings, Casa Europa welcomes Operísima México for a vibrant Spanish Zarzuela Night! Imagine if an opera and a musical had a spirited Spanish child! This unique genre mixes opera, spoken dialogue, popular songs and dance, for an experience that is as accessible as it is exciting. Known for its lively, often humorous plots and passionate music, zarzuela dives headfirst into themes of life, love and Spanish folklore. Think of it as the original telenovela, but with more singing, costumes, and lots of drama! Get ready for a roller coaster of drama, humor and lots of Spanish style!

Tickets are available at www.casaeuropamexico.com or via WhatsApp +52 415 181 2464.

Piano concert by Inna Falik – November 10

Extraordinary pianist Inna Falik brings her virtuosity to San Miguel de Allende! Prepare for an unforgettable evening as this acclaimed musician, celebrated for her brilliant and emotionally charged performances, takes the stage with a captivating repertoire including works by Chopin, Beethoven, Corigliano and Brahms. The concert will take place in the magnificent ambiance of St. Paul’s Church, where the historic architecture and rich acoustics will elevate every note. Whether you are a classical music lover or simply ready to let yourself be carried away by the magic of his piano, mark your calendar for November 10 at 5:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, Cardo #6, Centro.

Tickets are available online.

The City of Jazz – November 14-17

San Miguel de Allende welcomes you The city of jazzbringing four unforgettable nights of live music to Jardín Principal. The festival will kick off with the San Miguel Jazz Alliance on November 14, followed by the soulful voice of Lucía Gutiérrez on November 15. The excitement peaks on Saturday, November 16 with none other than the legendary Gipsy Kings filling the air with their iconic beats. The festival will end on November 17 with the Big Band Jazz and the powerful Concha Buika. Best of all? It’s completely free, with concerts starting at 8 p.m. each evening. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience world-class jazz in the heart of San Miguel!

Sandra Gancz-Kahan is a Mexican writer and translator based in San Miguel de Allende, specializing in mental health and humanitarian aid. She believes in the power of language to foster compassion and understanding across cultures. She can be reached at: (email protected)