7 traditional Oaxaca festivities that you should know about
It is no secret that Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful and fun states in Mexico. Throughout its towns and colonial streets, you can find history, color, culture, tradition, and folklore. Besides amazing artisanal crafts, Oaxaca people are also known for throwing a great party. No wonder, many people claim that “Oaxaca is always partying”.
Today we want to share some of the most representative celebrations in the state, so when you visit this place you can have the time of your life…
Radish Night
As crazy as it sounds, we really are talking about the kind of radish you eat. During this celebration, farmers gather in Oaxaca’s city Zócalo (the main square) and show off their designs made with radish. This festivity takes place on December 23.
La Guelaguetza
This is the most important festival when we talk about ethnic parties. Traditionally, locals call it “Monday’s Hill Parties”, since they start to celebrate it on a July Monday. Basically, all month, Oaxaca’s city organizes cultural, gastronomic, and artistic events throughout its streets.
Día de los Muertos
The Day of the Dead is a very popular festivity in all of Mexico. But in Oaxaca, it is even more traditional. People invite the dead to the underworld by putting out a creative and respectful altar in their honor. Cemeteries become a place of celebration instead of grief during this day.
Tejate fair
The tejate is a cold beverage made out of corn, cacao, coconout, mamey and sugar. This celebration takes place in San Andrés Huayapan, a small town in which women sell their millenary drinks to locals and foreigners.
Mezcal International Fair
When it comes to Mexican liquor, Oaxaca artisans know what they are doing with mezcal. It is an alcoholic beverage made from agave. And today, Oaxaca has more than 100 brands registered in the market. During this fair, people from all around Mexico visit Oaxaca to taste the finest mezcal in July.
San Martín Tilcajete Carnival
This party is known for the mask contest that rewards those artisans that really show off their talent with carving and painting. They also organize plays and other fun events.
Samaritan Day
Based on the Bible’s story when a woman offers Jesus water from a well, this celebration takes place during Lent. People prepare all kinds of water with fresh and fruity flavors to give out for free during this day. They also hang buckets throughout the city to simulate wells.
Which of these festivities would you visit Oaxaca for? Here at Azul Mejicano, we support Oaxacan artisan families , so they can continue to celebrate their traditions for many years.
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