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29Apr

Mexico Reaches New Heights with Rise Tower

A New Era for Mexican Skyscrapers

For decades, the world-renowned skyscrapers have been concentrated in metropolises like Dubai, Shanghai, and New York. Yet, Latin America has been gradually shaping its own urban identity, demonstrating resilience and unique growth patterns. Recently, however, Mexico has embarked on a transformative journey, led by one striking example: the Rise Tower in Monterrey. Standing at an impressive 484 meters, Rise Tower is not only set to be the tallest building in Latin America but will also rank among the tallest in the continent.

A Vertical City

The Rise Tower is more than just a commendable height; it encapsulates a global trend towards creating self-sustaining urban spaces. With its nearly 100 levels, the tower will host residential units, office spaces, hotels, retail establishments, and entertainment zones—all within one architectural marvel. In essence, it represents a vertical city, merging various components of urban life into a single structure.

Historically, such extensive developments have been characteristic of regions like Asia and the Middle East, but Monterrey, with its dynamic economy and capacity to attract investments, is quickly becoming a fertile ground for these ambitious architectural projects. The city’s move towards verticality is not just an architectural response; it is a profound evolution of its urban narrative.

A New Symbol of Ambition

The Rise Tower is part of a greater evolutionary journey that Monterrey has taken. For years, the city has embraced tall structures as a solution to urban growth challenges. Prior projects have reached heights of over 300 meters, but Rise Tower’s ambitious design significantly steps up the game. This new skyscraper will surpass many iconic buildings in the region, positioning Mexico as a beacon of contemporary architecture in Latin America.

This competition among skyscrapers is about more than just physical height; it’s about constructing a sense of identity. Cities communicate their character through their buildings, and Rise Tower speaks to a nation that is not just looking outward anymore, but is poised to establish its unique rhythm on the global stage.

Engineering Mastery

Constructing a structure of such magnitude involves navigating formidable technical hurdles, including high winds, seismic activity, and dense urban conditions. The design of Rise Tower features high-performance facades, aerodynamic shapes, and advanced structural solutions that ensure not only vertical height but also comfort and livability.

Incorporating sustainability and green spaces, the project aligns with international standards of responsible construction. This attention to detail highlights the commitment to creating a building that harmonizes aesthetics with functionality and environmental consciousness.

A Panoramic View of the Future

One of the tower’s most appealing features is a 360-degree observation deck located on the upper levels, providing breathtaking views of Monterrey sprawling into the horizon. Such observatories serve both tourist purposes and symbolic functions, allowing visitors to appreciate the landscape from a new perspective—quite literally from above.

Mexico’s Moment

The planned inauguration of Rise Tower in 2026 coincides with a time when Mexico is poised to take center stage globally, thanks to international events and a growing economic significance. This serendipitous timing emphasizes how architecture often serves as a declaration of intent, and Rise Tower is a testament to that notion. It perfectly encapsulates the message that Mexico is not merely growing but elevating itself.

Bridging Tradition and Modernity

Even as the structure of Rise Tower is rooted in modern architectural practices, it stands as a bridge between Mexico’s rich history and its ambitious future. Monterrey, known for its industrial background, has always thrived on innovation. The Rise Tower perfectly portrays the marriage of tradition, design ingenuity, and forward-thinking solutions—ideal ingredients for taking on global challenges.

Community Impact and Outlook

Beyond its architectural grandeur, Rise Tower will have significant implications for the surrounding community and local economy. Creating jobs during and after construction, the project is expected to stimulate economic growth and make Monterrey more attractive to both national and international enterprises. While the tower stands as a symbol of architectural prowess, it also signifies hope, ambition, and the belief that through innovative thinking and dedication, monumental achievements are indeed possible.

In conclusion, the Rise Tower is more than just a triumph of engineering and design; it represents a new chapter for Mexico and a bold statement that the nation is ready to take on the world, quite literally from the heights.

Blog
mescaline, peyote

27Apr

🌵 Peyote: history, effects, cultural meaning, and legal status

What is Peyote?

Peyote (Lophophora williamsii) is a small, spineless psychoactive cactus native to the Chihuahuan Desert of northern Mexico and southern Texas. The plant contains mescaline, a naturally occurring hallucinogenic compound that alters perception, mood, and consciousness.

The top of the cactus forms rounded disc-shaped structures known as “peyote buttons.” These buttons contain the highest concentration of mescaline and are traditionally consumed during spiritual ceremonies.

For thousands of years, peyote has been regarded as sacred medicine by Indigenous peoples of North America. Rather than recreational use, it is traditionally associated with prayer, healing rituals, and spiritual insight.

History of Peyote use

Archaeological evidence suggests human use of this plant dates back more than 5,000 years. Indigenous communities across northern Mexico and the southwestern United States integrated the cactus into religious practices long before modern pharmacology identified mescaline as its active compound.

The Wixárika (Huichol) people of Mexico consider the plant a central element of their cosmology. Annual pilgrimages to the sacred desert region of Wirikuta allow participants to gather peyote as part of ceremonial traditions connecting them with ancestors and divine forces.

In the United States, peyote later became the primary sacrament of the Native American Church, where it continues to be used in all-night healing ceremonies focused on spiritual reflection, community unity, and personal transformation.

Today, conservation efforts aim to protect wild peyote populations threatened by habitat loss and overharvesting.

Effects on the body

After ingestion, peyote produces both physical and neurological responses. The onset typically begins with strong physiological sensations.

Common physical effects include:

Nausea and vomiting
Dilated pupils
Increased heart rate
Elevated blood pressure
Increased body temperature and perspiration
Headaches and muscle weakness
Impaired coordination

These reactions vary depending on dosage, health condition, and environmental setting. The initial nausea is often interpreted in ceremonial contexts as physical purification.

Effects on the mind

Mescaline primarily influences perception and cognition. The psychoactive experience may last between 10 and 12 hours.

Psychological effects may include:

Visual and auditory hallucinations
Altered perception of time and space
Intensified colors and geometric patterns
Changes in body awareness
Emotional openness and introspection

Many users describe feelings of euphoria or spiritual insight, although anxiety or confusion can also occur, especially outside ceremonial settings.

Other hallucinogens that produce similar effects include LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and PCP.

Legal status

Under the United States Controlled Substances Act, peyote and mescaline are classified as Schedule I substances, indicating a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use under federal law.

However, federal exemptions permit ceremonial use of peyote by recognized Native American religious groups.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is peyote legal in the United States?

Peyote is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, but federal law allows ceremonial use within recognized Native American religious practices.

How is peyote consumed?

Peyote buttons may be chewed, brewed into tea, dried and powdered into capsules, or occasionally smoked with plant material.

How long do peyote effects last?

The psychoactive experience typically lasts 10–12 hours, depending on dosage and individual sensitivity.

Is peyote addictive?

Peyote does not generally cause physical dependence, although psychological dependence is possible.

Why is peyote considered sacred?

Indigenous cultures view peyote as a spiritual medicine used for healing, prayer, and connection with the divine.

17Apr

What are alebrijes?

Alebrijes are intricate and brightly-colored Mexican folk art sculptures that have captured the imagination of people around the world. These fanciful creatures, often made from papier-mâché or carved from wood, are unique to the Mexican state of Oaxaca. They are a popular form of artistic expression.

The origins

The history of alebrijes comes from the traditions of Oaxaca’s indigenous communities. The Zapotec and Mixtec peoples, who have inhabited the region for centuries, have a long history of carving and sculpting objects from wood, such as masks and toys.

The first creatures were created by a man named Pedro Linares. He was a Mexican artist who became famous for his papier-mâché sculptures. In 1936, Linares fell ill and had a vivid dream in which he saw strange, fantastical creatures that combined the features of different animals. When he recovered, he began to recreate these creatures as sculptures, using his papier-mâché technique. He called them alebrijes, a name he heard in his dream.

The popularity of Linares’creatures grew, and they soon became a symbol of Mexican folk art. Today artisans all over Mexico make alebrijes, but the most skilled and sought-after pieces are still made in Oaxaca.

Creation of alebrijes

Alebrijes are typically made from wood or papier-mâché. The process of creating them can take several days or even weeks. The first step is to choose the type of wood or paper that will be used for the sculpture. For wood creatures, artisans typically use the wood of the copal tree, a type of tropical hardwood that is native to Mexico. The wood is carefully carved to create the shape of the fantasy animal, and then sanded down to create a smooth surface.

For papier-mâché alebrijes, artisans begin by creating a wire frame that will serve as the base of the sculpture. Layers of paper are then applied to the wire frame, using a mixture of glue and water to create a strong and durable structure. Once the paper has dried, the artist can begin to paint the alebrije. He usually uses bright colors and intricate designs to bring it to life.

Symbolism

Alebrijes are not just colorful and whimsical sculptures – they also have deep symbolic meaning in Mexican culture. Many indigenous communities in Oaxaca believe that alebrijes are the spirit guides that can protect and guide individuals on their life’s journey. Each alebrije has its own unique personality and characteristics. Alebrijes often have animal features for their symbolic significance.

For example, an alebrije with the wings of a butterfly might represent transformation and growth. A creature with the horns of a bull might represent strength and resilience. The colors used on the alebrijes also have symbolic significance. Red might represent passion and energy, while blue might represent tranquility and calm.

Global appeal of alebrijes

Alebrijes have become increasingly popular around the world, thanks in part to their striking appearance and unique cultural heritage. They have been featured in movies such as Pixar’s “Coco”. The movie tells the story of a young boy who dreams of becoming a musician and must navigate the world of the dead with the help of his alebrijes.

In addition to their appearances in popular culture, many museums and galleries around the world exhibit alebrijes. Their intricate designs and vibrant colors have captured the attention of art enthusiasts. The cultural significance has made them an important symbol of Mexican identity.

As interest in alebrijes continues to grow, so too does the number of artisans creating them. Many of these artisans come from families with long traditions of woodcarving and papier-mâché, and they take great pride in their work. The creation of alebrijes is not just a craft – it is an art form that requires skill, creativity, and patience.

Alebrijes are a unique and captivating form of folk art that have captured the hearts of people around the world. From their origins in the dreams of Pedro Linares to their place in contemporary popular culture, alebrijes are a symbol of Mexican identity and creativity. Their intricate designs and vibrant colors have made them an important part of the global art scene. Their cultural significance continues to inspire and fascinate those who encounter them. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or simply a lover of whimsy, there is something about alebrijes that is sure to capture your imagination.

16Apr

I only have 100 pesos

In a city known for its vibrant energy, endless shopping options, and constant movement, a different kind of consumer experience is quietly redefining how people buy, sell, and connect. This April 2026, the beloved bazaar “I only have 100 pesos” returns to Mexico City, proving that creativity, community, and style do not need to come with a high price tag.

More than just a market, this event has become a cultural phenomenon — a small but powerful act of resistance against excessive consumption. In a world where value is often measured by cost, this bazaar proposes a radical idea: everything available costs 100 pesos or less.

A bazaar where ingenuity matters more than money

“Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos” — which translates to I Only Have 100 Pesos — is not simply a catchy name. It reflects a philosophy. The project was born from the desire to make design, art, and unique objects accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.

After more than a decade of evolving across different cities in Mexico, the bazaar has found fertile ground in Mexico City. Its return to CDMX feels inevitable, fueled by a growing community of independent designers, small entrepreneurs, and curious visitors who believe that an object’s worth is not determined solely by its price.

At a time when personal finances demand creativity and conscious decision-making, the bazaar offers an alternative form of consumption — one that embraces intention without sacrificing aesthetics or individuality.

A universe of discoveries under 100 pesos

Walking into the bazaar feels like opening a drawer filled with unexpected treasures. Over 100 local brands gather under one roof, transforming the space into a playground for discovery.

Visitors can explore:

Vintage clothing with stories from another era
Handmade jewelry crafted in small workshops
Independent beauty and makeup brands
Artistic stationery and notebooks
Decorative objects and plants
Reused or rescued fashion pieces ready for a second life

Here, new creations coexist with recycled finds. Handcrafted items sit alongside carefully restored pieces, each carrying its own narrative. A pair of earrings might feel like a hidden designer gem, while a notebook might inspire someone to start a new project, journal, or dream.

What makes the experience truly unique is the price limit itself. Knowing that nothing exceeds 100 pesos turns shopping into a creative exercise: What can I discover with just a small budget? The constraint shifts attention away from spending power and toward imagination, curiosity, and personal taste.

More than a market: a culture of exchange

Although it resembles a traditional market at first glance, “Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos” functions more like a living ecosystem. Ideas circulate as freely as products. Designers meet buyers face-to-face, stories are shared behind each object, and consumption becomes more human and transparent.

The bazaar actively supports local commerce while encouraging sustainable practices such as reuse, upcycling, and mindful purchasing — values increasingly embraced by urban communities seeking alternatives to fast fashion and mass production.

The atmosphere also plays a major role in its appeal. Expect music, food options, relaxed social areas, and a welcoming environment designed for exploration rather than rushed transactions. Visitors often spend hours browsing, chatting with creators, and discovering unexpected finds.

It is shopping transformed into an experience — one built around connection rather than urgency.

The luxury of accessibility

Ironically, the true luxury of this bazaar lies not in exclusivity but in accessibility. By limiting prices, the event democratizes design and creativity, allowing visitors to access original pieces without compromising their personal economy.

Despite the affordable prices, quality remains central. The bazaar has earned a strong reputation for its careful curation. Organizers select vendors who offer well-made, stylish, and original products, ensuring visitors leave with items that feel meaningful rather than disposable.

This balance between affordability and thoughtful design has turned the event into one of Mexico City’s most anticipated alternative shopping experiences.

Four floors of inspiration

This edition promises an even richer experience. The bazaar will occupy four full floors, each filled with distinct proposals and creative concepts. Visitors are encouraged to arrive with time to explore every corner, since discoveries often appear where least expected.

A terrace space will also be open, offering a place to rest, socialize, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that has become a signature of the event.

Another feature that attendees love: the bazaar is pet friendly. Guests are welcome to bring their dogs along, making it an ideal weekend plan with friends, partners, or family — a casual outing that often ends with several shopping bags but surprisingly little spending.

A different way to consume in CDMX

In a vast metropolis like Mexico City, where countless experiences compete for attention and money, “Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos” proposes something refreshingly simple: consume with intention, support local talent, and rediscover the joy of finding something special without overspending.

The event reminds visitors that value does not always lie in luxury branding or high prices. Sometimes, 100 pesos are enough to take home something beautiful, useful, or meaningful — along with the satisfaction of supporting creativity and community.

For anyone who enjoys treasure hunting, discovering independent talent, or simply experiencing a different side of the city’s cultural scene, this bazaar deserves a place on the early-May agenda.

📅 Dates: May 1, 2 & 3, 2026
📍 Location: Enrique Rebsamen 203, Narvarte Poniente, Mexico City
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Admission: Free entry (all products priced at 100 pesos or less)

Whether you arrive with curiosity, a tight budget, or simply the desire to explore, one thing is certain: at “Solo Tengo $100 Pesitos,” creativity proves that less can truly be more.

20Mar

Quintonil: an evening at the World’s No. 3 Restaurant

Some restaurants feed you. Others change the way you think about food entirely. Quintonil, tucked quietly into a residential street in Polanco, did the latter — and we are still thinking about it months later.

We visited in December, one of those perfect Mexico City evenings when the air is cool enough to make you glad you brought a jacket but warm enough to walk slowly and enjoy the city. We had booked weeks in advance — Quintonil doesn’t leave room for spontaneity — and we arrived with high expectations. What we didn’t expect was how completely those expectations would be exceeded.

No. 3 in the World. In our Neighbourhood.

Let’s put that number in perspective for a moment. Quintonil currently holds the No. 3 position on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list — sitting alongside restaurants in Copenhagen, Paris and New York that people fly across continents to visit. And here it is, less than 15 minutes from Casa de Chiles, on a quiet Polanco street with a facade so discreet you could walk past it without a second glance.

That modesty is deliberate. From the moment you step inside, Quintonil makes clear that the focus is entirely on what arrives at your table — not on impressing you with chandeliers or theatrical flourishes. The dining room is elegant but human in scale. The service is warm and knowledgeable without ever feeling stiff. You feel immediately that you are in good hands.

The Food

Chef Jorge Vallejo’s tasting menu is a love letter to Mexico — not the Mexico of tourist menus and predictable combinations, but a deeper, more complex Mexico of heirloom ingredients, indigenous techniques and produce sourced directly from farmers across the country. Around 98% of everything on the plate is Mexican — a philosophy that sounds simple but requires extraordinary knowledge and relationships to execute at this level.

The meal unfolds as a series of revelations. Dishes arrive that look almost too beautiful to disturb — and then you take a first bite and understand that the beauty is entirely beside the point. What matters is what happens next: flavours that are simultaneously ancient and startlingly new, textures that surprise you, combinations that make you put down your fork and simply sit with what just happened.

Corn — the soul of Mexican cuisine — appears in forms you have never imagined. Native herbs and wild ingredients bring bitterness, brightness and depth in equal measure. Sauces carry histories. Every course feels like a conversation between the kitchen and the land.

We are not food critics. We are hosts who love this city and love sharing it with our guests. But we know when something is exceptional. And this was exceptional.

A moment with Jorge Vallejo

At the end of the meal, Jorge Vallejo came out to greet the tables — and this, perhaps, surprised us most of all. Here is a chef at the absolute summit of his profession, running one of the three best restaurants on the planet, and he is warm, approachable, genuinely curious about his guests. We had a quick photo together — a moment we almost didn’t ask for, not wanting to impose — and he couldn’t have been more gracious. No performance, no distance. Just a person who clearly loves what he does and loves sharing it.

It reminded us of why we love hosting. At its best, hospitality is simply about making people feel welcome. Jorge Vallejo has built one of the world’s great restaurants on exactly that principle.

Our advice to You

If you are staying at Casa de Chiles, Quintonil is not optional. It is one of those experiences that belongs on a very short list of things you will remember for the rest of your life. Book your table the moment you confirm your travel dates — reservations fill weeks in advance. Go hungry, go curious, and go without your phone in your hand. Be present for every course.

You are staying two blocks from Reforma, minutes from Chapultepec, in one of the world’s great cities. And fifteen minutes away, Jorge Vallejo is doing something extraordinary with Mexican cuisine.

Don’t miss it.

Practical details: Reserve via OpenTable well in advance. Smart casual dress. Budget for a special evening — it is worth every peso.

23Nov

10 facts about Mexican Revolution

More than 115 years have passed since the beginning of the Mexican Revolution, yet this historic conflict continues to spark curiosity and inspire debate. What began as a movement to overthrow Porfirio Díaz—who had held power for 35 years—rapidly evolved into one of the most transformative social and political upheavals in Mexico’s history. Although Díaz oversaw a period of modernization, it came at a high social and economic cost, paid largely by the most vulnerable communities and the political opposition silenced under his regime.

The revolution erupted in northern Mexico and quickly spread across the entire country. Beyond the battles, political struggles, and iconic leaders, the revolution is full of stories and details that many people have never heard. Here are 10 intriguing facts that shed new light on Mexico’s most important revolution.

1. A Revolution that announced its own start date

Surprisingly, the Mexican Revolution is the only major uprising in world history that publicly announced the exact date and time it would begin. The call to arms was detailed in the Plan of San Luis, written by Francisco I. Madero. In this document, Madero invited the Mexican people to rise against Porfirio Díaz on Sunday, November 20, at 6:00 p.m. The announcement was a bold and unprecedented move—one that would ignite the first sparks of the revolution.

2. The mystery of Madero’s middle name

For many years, it was widely claimed that Francisco I. Madero’s second name was Indalecio. But no official record ever validated this belief. His baptism certificate reveals his real name: Francisco Ignacio Madero—in honor of his parents’ devotion to Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Ignatius of Loyola.

Despite his role as president, Madero was affectionately nicknamed “Pingüica” because of his short height. He was also deeply committed to spiritualism, earning him another title in the press of the time: “the madman who communicates with the dead.”

3. The most iconic photograph of the Revolution

One of the most famous images from the Revolution captures Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata seated in the National Palace on December 6, 1914. The photograph, taken by Agustín Víctor Casasola, immortalized the moment when the two revolutionary leaders briefly shared power after a celebratory banquet. Today, the original image is preserved in the National Museum of Photography in Pachuca.

4. Emiliano Zapata was not poor

Although Emiliano Zapata is often portrayed as a destitute peasant, the reality is more nuanced. Zapata actually came from a family of comfortable means. He enjoyed refined tastes, including French cuisine and cognac—details that contrast sharply with his popular image as a humble campesino.

5. Women who fought, led, and spied

Women played a crucial and often overlooked role in the revolution. Many supported the troops by cooking, cleaning clothes, caring for the wounded, and protecting children. But some women went far beyond traditional roles.

One extraordinary figure was Colonel Carmen Amelia Robles Ávila from Xochipala, Guerrero. Known as “Coronel Robles,” she disguised herself in men’s clothing and fought with exceptional skill in both horseback riding and weapons. Other women became spies, infiltrating enemy lines; soldaderas rode atop train cars, while prostitutes traveled inside them.

6. The poet vice president: José María Pino Suárez

Mexico’s vice president during Madero’s government, José María Pino Suárez, was not only a politician but also a passionate poet. He fell deeply in love with his wife, María Casimira Cámara Vales—whom he courted with serenades and poems. After Pino Suárez was assassinated during the Decena Trágica, Maruca was devastated. She sold her belongings to support her children and lived a long life until receiving the Belisario Domínguez Medal in 1969 at the age of 92.

7. A German spy at the heart of the Revolution

Félix A. Sommerfeld, a German double agent, became one of Madero’s closest allies. He worked simultaneously with U.S. and German intelligence and built a sophisticated network of informants along the U.S.–Mexico border. Sommerfeld is considered one of the pioneers of Mexico’s intelligence services.

8. Jack London: chronicler of the Revolution

Celebrated American author Jack London, known for White Fang and The Call of the Wild, was also a journalist who covered the Mexican Revolution. A committed socialist, he was drawn to the struggle and even dedicated one of his most famous stories, “The Mexican,” to the cause—a tale about a young boxer who donates his prize money to support the revolutionaries.

9. The real Adelita

La Adelita, one of the most beloved revolutionary songs, was composed by Sergeant Antonio Gil del Río for Adela Velarde Pérez of Durango. At just 13 years old, Adela defied her parents and joined the revolutionary nursing corps created by Doña Leonor Villegas de Magnon. Leaving behind a life of comfort, she devoted herself to caring for the wounded aboard medical trains.

10. A bullet in bar La Ópera

In Mexico City’s historic center, the famous cantina La Ópera still displays a bullet hole in its ceiling—fired by none other than Pancho Villa during a visit in 1914. The bar, originally opened in 1876, remains a living witness to the revolution’s turbulent past.

The Mexican Revolution is far more than a series of battles—it is a collection of human stories, contradictions, and unforgettable characters. These ten facts offer just a glimpse into the complexity and richness of a movement that forever reshaped the nation.

Blog
bread

22Nov

Bread Fair 2025

In the heart of Mexico City, a warm and comforting aroma is set to take over the capital. The Bread Fair 2025 is arriving with an irresistible promise: two days dedicated to one of the greatest everyday joys in Mexican culture—pan dulce. Organized by the Secretaría de Turismo de la Ciudad de México, the Secretaría de Desarrollo Económico, the Cámara Nacional de la Industria Panificadora y Similares de México (Canainpa), and the Alcaldía Tlalpan, this event is a true tribute to the art, flavor, and heritage of Mexican breadmaking.

Whether you’re a devoted concha lover, a fan of the buttery cuernito, or someone who can never resist a warm bolillo, this fair promises a celebration that blends gastronomy, culture, and family-friendly fun.

When and where is the Bread Fair 2025?

Mark your calendar, because this delicious celebration takes place on:

Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7, 2025
Location: Plaza del Bolero, on Moneda Street, near Francisco I. Madero, in Alcaldía Tlalpan, Mexico City
Nearest Transport: Metrobús Fuentes Brotantes (Line 1), just a 10-minute walk from the venue

The central location and easy access make it a perfect weekend plan for families, foodies, and anyone who appreciates the comforting scent of freshly baked bread.

What makes this Fair so special?

At its core, the Feria del Pan is a gathering of passion and tradition. The event brings together more than 45 exhibitors, ranging from long-established bakeries to innovative gourmet and artisanal concepts. It’s a unique chance to explore Mexico’s enormous breadmaking tradition all in one place.

A feast of flavors

Visitors will find an impressive variety of baked goods, including:

Conchas
Cuernitos
Orejas
Chocolatines
Garibaldis
Mantecadas
Artisan sandwich loaves
Baguettes
Bolillos

Whether you prefer something classic or want to taste something new and inventive, this fair has it all. It isn’t just a market—it’s a true fiesta of pan dulce.

More than tasting: a chance to learn

Beyond the gastronomic experience, the fair offers workshops and talks dedicated to breadmaking techniques, bakery traditions, and the evolution of artisan baking in Mexico. It’s a chance to connect with bakers, hear their stories, and learn what makes their creations unique.

The event also features musical performances, adding to the warm and festive atmosphere. And best of all—admission is completely free, making it accessible to anyone who wishes to be part of this sweet celebration.

Why you shouldn’t miss it

The Bread Fair is more than an event; it’s a sensory journey through one of the most beloved elements of Mexican cuisine. Here’s why attending is truly worth it:

1. Celebrate a deeply rooted Mexican tradition

According to Canainpa, Mexico is home to over 54,700 bakeries, with 2,800 to 3,000 located in Mexico City alone. The sheer number speaks volumes about how deeply bread is woven into everyday life—from morning conchas to evening bolillos.

2. Discover innovation and creativity

While traditional favorites will always have a special place, the fair also highlights artisan recipes, gourmet fusions, and local specialties that showcase the evolution of breadmaking in CDMX.

3. A perfect plan for the cold season

There’s nothing more comforting on a crisp December day than freshly baked bread paired with a warm drink. The fair even includes designated areas where visitors can enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, or atole with their chosen treat.

4. A family-friendly cultural outing

This is not just about buying bread—it’s about cultural heritage. You’ll find music, storytelling, hands-on workshops, and the shared joy of discovering new flavors together. It’s an experience that brings community, gastronomy, and Mexican identity together beautifully.

Tips to make the most of your visit

Bring cash, as not all exhibitors may accept cards.
Arrive early for the best selection and a quieter experience as the fair fills up quickly.
Pair your pastries with a hot beverage—there are areas dedicated for this!
Ask for local specialties or “items of the day,” since many bakeries bring exclusive creations just for the event.
Attend workshops and talks—great for learning techniques or hearing stories from master bakers.
If visiting with children, identify shaded or resting areas to take breaks.
Take some bread home and extend the celebration beyond the fair.

A celebration of flavor, tradition, and community

The bread Fair 2025 in Mexico City is much more than a large-scale pastry market. It’s a tribute to Mexican culture, creativity, and the simple joy of breaking bread with others. Whether you’re drawn by nostalgia, curiosity, or pure love for pan dulce, this event offers something special for everyone.

For concha enthusiasts, for artisan bread explorers, for families seeking a meaningful December outing, and for anyone wanting to reconnect with a cherished piece of Mexican identity—this fair is the perfect place to be.

Blog

21Nov

A Mexican became Miss Universe

In a night full of glitz, glamour, and unexpected drama, Fatima Bosch of Mexico has been crowned Miss Universe 2025 in Bangkok, ending what has been one of the most scandal-filled pageant seasons in recent memory. At 25 years old, Bosch’s victory is already being hailed as iconic, not just for her poise and beauty, but for the dramatic events that led up to her crowning.

The road to the crown was far from smooth. Earlier this month, Bosch walked out of a pre-pageant event after a Thai official publicly berated her in front of dozens of contestants. She was threatened with disqualification for herself and anyone who supported her. This bold move instantly made headlines around the world and quickly positioned Bosch as a figure of courage and principle. Supporters, including the Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, praised her as “an example of how we women should speak out” against aggression.

The controversy didn’t end there. Just a week later, two judges resigned amid accusations of rigging. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch alleged that an “impromptu jury” had pre-selected finalists ahead of the final night, while former French football star Claude Makelele resigned citing “unforeseen personal reasons.” Although the Miss Universe Organization denied any wrongdoing, the resignations added fuel to an already heated debate about fairness and transparency in the pageant.

Amid the turmoil, fans and social media commentators were quick to speculate that Bosch’s win may have been influenced by her earlier walkout. “Next year, whoever walks out will win,” one fan joked online, while another suggested, “They had to crown her to make up for injustice earlier to save Miss Universe!” Regardless of speculation, Bosch’s grace, strength, and radiant spirit undeniably captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, as the Miss Universe Organization celebrated on social media.

The pageant itself was not without its own mishaps. During the preliminary evening gown round, Miss Jamaica fell on stage and had to be stretchered out of the theatre. Thankfully, organisers confirmed she was unharmed and received proper medical attention, though the incident became a viral sensation across social media platforms.

Despite the turbulence, the final night proceeded with intensity and elegance. Miss Thailand Praveenar Singh took first runner-up, Miss Venezuela Stephany Abasali placed third, followed by Miss Philippines Ma Ahtisa Manalo and Miss Cote d’Ivoire Olivia Yace, rounding out the top five. Yet it was Bosch’s presence, confidence, and ability to handle the controversies with dignity that truly dominated the headlines.

The behind-the-scenes tension highlighted the differences between the Thai and Mexican factions overseeing Miss Universe this year. The Bangkok events were organized by Nawat Itsaragrasil, founder of Miss Grand International, known for his bold social media presence and high-profile organizing style. Meanwhile, the Miss Universe Organization has been run from Mexico under businessman Raul Rocha, a relatively new leadership team brought in just before this year’s pageant.

Ownership of Miss Universe has changed hands several times in recent years. Thai media mogul Anne Jakrajutatip had previously acquired the pageant from US-based Endeavor in 2022, making sweeping reforms to promote inclusivity—allowing transgender women, married women, and mothers to participate, and removing the age cap for contestants. She also sought to monetize the brand through merchandise, from bottled water to branded bags. However, her entertainment company, JKN, filed for bankruptcy in 2023 due to liquidity problems, and she resigned as CEO before this year’s pre-pageant events, replaced by Guatemalan diplomat Mario Bucaro.

All of these dynamics—the leadership shake-ups, walkouts, judge resignations, and viral social media moments—paint a picture of a pageant struggling to maintain relevance while navigating modern scrutiny. Yet, for Fatima Bosch, it was the perfect stage to shine. Her victory, Mexico’s fourth Miss Universe crown, is being celebrated as a triumph of resilience, courage, and grace under pressure.

While opinions remain divided, there is no denying that Miss Universe 2025 will be remembered not only for the stunning finale but for the extraordinary drama leading up to it. Bosch’s walkout, in retrospect, was more than a protest—it became a defining moment that cemented her place in the history of beauty pageants worldwide.

In the end, Miss Universe 2025 proved that in the world of pageantry, beauty may open the door, but courage and integrity keep the crown.