Alebrije Painting Pop-Up: Día de Muertos Edition

Paint an Alebrije or a Special Day of the Dead Woodcarving

Looking for a creative Day of the Dead activity in Oaxaca without leaving the city center? Join Tlayudona for this festive hands-on alebrije painting workshop, where you'll decorate your own traditional Oaxacan wooden carving while learning about one of the state's most celebrated folk art traditions.

This special seasonal pop-up is hosted by Alex, a talented alebrije artisan from the renowned village of San Martín Tilcajete, one of Oaxaca's most important communities dedicated to the art of hand-carved and hand-painted alebrijes. Throughout the experience, Alex will share the history, symbolism, and creative techniques behind these colorful spirit animals while guiding you as you paint your very own masterpiece to take home.

During the Día de Muertos season, you'll have the rare opportunity to paint exclusive Day of the Dead-themed alebrijes, featuring skeletons, Xoloitzcuintles, marigold motifs, Catrinas, and other designs inspired by Oaxaca's most beloved holiday. These limited-edition pieces, along with a beautiful selection of handcrafted alebrijes from Alex's family workshop, will also be available for purchase—making this the perfect place to find an authentic souvenir directly from the artists who create them.

No Day of the Dead celebration in Oaxaca would be complete without mezcal, the region's iconic agave spirit. Throughout history, mezcal has played an important role in Día de Muertos traditions, often placed on family altars (ofrendas) as an offering to welcome the spirits of loved ones back home. During this experience, you'll enjoy a complimentary mezcal tasting while learning about its cultural significance and why it remains an essential part of Oaxacan celebrations.

Whether you're exploring Oaxaca between comparsas, markets, and cemetery visits or simply looking for one of the city's most unique Day of the Dead workshops, this colorful pop-up offers the perfect blend of art, culture, and tradition. Face painting will also be available throughout the day, making it an ideal stop for families, couples, photographers, and anyone looking to celebrate the spirit of Día de Muertos through authentic local craftsmanship.