Set in the heart of colonial San Ángel, El Bazar Sábado enchants with its combination of 17th-century mansions, lush plazas, tree-shaded walkways, and the buzz of Mexico’s premier weekend art market. The bazaar centers on Plaza San Jacinto and the stone-arched, historic Casa del Risco, spilling out into side streets and neighboring squares. Against a backdrop of live music, visitors discover colorful textiles, pottery, jewelry, original paintings, and gourmet treats—all brought directly by Mexico’s best artisans and artists.
History of El Bazar Sábado
Founded in 1960 by a group of American and Mexican visionaries, El Bazar Sábado was designed as a weekly tianguis (open-air market) for artisans and contemporary artists to showcase work in elegant surroundings. It soon outgrew its first venue and found its permanent home in the restored colonial mansion at Plaza San Jacinto 11 by 1964, where it remains a San Ángel landmark.
San Ángel itself was once a separate colonial town, lined with summer houses of the Spanish elite and later home to iconic artists such as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. The neighborhood retains an atmosphere of creative refinement, with cobblestone lanes, hidden gardens, and more art studios per block than almost anywhere else in the city.
Attractions at El Bazar Sábado
Handicraft & Artisan Market: Dozens of stalls—indoors and out—overflow with ceramics, silverwork, wood carvings, glass, textiles, and leather goods, as well as fine jewelry and fashion by Mexican designers.
Original Art: From paintings and limited-edition prints to sculpture and folk art, you can meet artists, discuss their inspiration, and purchase works that are perfect for souvenirs or collectors.
Plaza San Jacinto & Plaza del Carmen: Lively open-air art markets and music. The plazas are ringed by historic buildings full of shops, cafes, and terraces to people-watch and enjoy the ambiance.
Casa del Risco Museum: Baroque mansion at the heart of the bazaar, housing a stunning art collection around a sprawling courtyard and historic fountain.
Live Music and Folklore: Bossa nova, mariachi, classical and traditional Mexican music enliven the streets, especially by the main courtyards.
Specialty Food Stalls: Gourmet cheeses, artisanal chocolates, local honey, mezcal tasting, and microbrewery beers (including Monstruo de Agua, whose profits aid axolotl conservation) make the experience a culinary delight.
Workshops and Demonstrations: Many artisans offer live demos of their craft, from weaving to printmaking.
Things to Do at El Bazar Sábado
Shop for One-of-a-Kind Treasures: Whether for gifts or personal keepsakes, the selection at El Bazar Sábado is unmatched.
Savor Gourmet Street Food: Tacos, churros, tamales, freshwater ice creams, and many regional snacks are available from both market stalls and nearby restaurants.
Join Art Talks & Tours: Local guides often offer neighborhood walks, introducing the history and hidden gems of San Ángel alongside the market.
Watch Artists at Work: Engage with artisans, ask about their techniques, and even commission custom pieces.
Relax in the Plaza: Grab a Mexican coffee or a craft beer and watch the world go by under centuries-old trees.
Children’s Activities: Kid-friendly vibe, with open space in Plaza San Jacinto and engaging visual arts to inspire creativity in young visitors.
El Bazar Sábado – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Every Saturday from about 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM; best visited between 11 AM and 5 PM for the full experience
How Long to Spend at El Bazar Sábado
2–4 hours for shopping, relaxing, and exploring art galleries; longer if dining or joining local tours.
How to Get There
By Metro: Closest station is Miguel Ángel de Quevedo (Line 3, olive green). From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk or short taxi ride to Plaza San Jacinto.
By Metrobus: Take Metrobus Line 1 to La Bombilla station, a 5-minute walk from the market.
By Bus: Buses to San Ángel depart from various city points, including Centro Histórico and Coyoacán; ask for “Plaza San Jacinto” stop.
By Taxi/Rideshare: Direct option from anywhere in the city; most convenient on weekends when parking is scarce.
Walking/Biking: The area is very pedestrian-friendly, and its alleys are pleasant to explore by foot.
Eateries Nearby El Bazar Sábado
| Name | Cuisine Type | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| OXA Cocina Única | Mexican Fusion | At market | Patio setting, modern Mexican cuisine |
| Saks San Ángel | International | 20m | Famous terrace for coffee, brunch, and people-watch |
| Magda | Contemporary | 200m | Creative plates, chic ambiance |
| Bistro 83 | French/Mexican | 350m | Elegant spot with fusion menu |
| Corazón de Maguey | Mexican | 300m | Mezcal-focused, lively Mexican flavors |
| San Ángel Inn | Mexican/Hacienda | 900m | Historic setting in a stunning 18th-century hacienda |
Other Attractions Nearby El Bazar Sábado
Museo Casa del Risco: Elegant art museum in a baroque mansion.
Museo del Carmen: Former convent with religious art and colonial history.
Jardín del Arte: Outdoor Sunday art market in nearby plazas.
Museo Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo: Artists’ studio-museum, 1.5 km north in San Ángel.
Centro Cultural San Ángel: Year-round gallery exhibitions, workshops, and events.
Plaza San Jacinto: Historic plaza central to San Ángel’s social and artistic life.
El Bazar Sábado is a vibrant weekend market located in San Ángel, Mexico City, that celebrates art, culture, and local craftsmanship. Every Saturday, artists and artisans gather to showcase unique handmade items, from jewelry and textiles to paintings and sculptures. Known for its lively atmosphere and colorful stalls, El Bazar Sábado draws both locals and tourists looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Visitors can explore a wide variety of artistic creations, enjoy street performances, and savor traditional Mexican snacks while wandering through the market. With its rich cultural experience and diverse offerings, El Bazar Sábado is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Mexico City. For those searching online, you may also find it under the alternative spelling El Bazaar Sábado, both offering the same exciting cultural experience.