'Faro Tláhuac' attracts dark souls at Mexico City's gothic picnic

Vampires, witches, and non-binary souls gathered in Tlahuac, Mexico City, to celebrate World Goth Day on May 17. Organized by the Mexico City Ministry of Culture at the “Faro Tláhuac“, attendees enjoyed a selection of dark arts.

Dance, live music, theater, poetry, bazaars with gothic paraphernalia, and plenty of platform boots invaded the Faro space.

The Network of Arts and Crafts Factories (or FAROS), as described on its official website, “seeks to guarantee the full exercise of cultural rights and contribute to the regeneration of the social and community fabric through free, decentralized, non-formal artistic and educational offerings aimed at priority groups.” The eight locations in Mexico City provide a physical space for all types of citizens to learn and practice arts and crafts free of charge.

There could not have been a better place in the south of the city than the Faro, designed specifically for this type of event.

“It’s not just a phase, as my mother used to tell me. I’m already 50 years old and we’re still here,” one of the organizers shared with all the spectators.

From the outside, it seemed like a hostile and unfriendly environment. People wearing makeup, chains, studs, and skulls galore. Nothing could be further from the truth; the picnic was packed with people of all ages. From older adults who had witnessed the rise of The Cure to little girls wearing dresses from the latest incarnation of Merlina. Couples sharing a hug with black velvet in between them, and friends applying makeup to each other. The celebration felt like the reunion of a large family braving the elements by wearing black.

It’s worth noting that Tlahuac isn’t the usual gathering place for nightlife enthusiasts; the development of this culture and fashion has traditionally taken place in the heart of Mexico City. It’s also worth highlighting the efforts of the Mexican government’s cultural programs to bring culture to outlying areas and to spread entertainment offerings and opportunities.

A gothic fashion show and a performance by the group Vlood brought the afternoon of cultural events to a close with a flourish.

The celebration was a success, and as night began to fall upon the Faro, the attendees prepared to leave, undoubtedly full of energy after having shared a space where we all celebrated a love of the dark, the occult, and the arts.

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