La Guelaguetza is the biggest cultural festival in Oaxaca, Mexico, that celebrates the diversity and richness of the 16 ethnic groups and Afro-Mexican communities that live in the state. Every year, during the second half of July, thousands of tourists flock to Oaxaca to witness the colorful dances, music, costumes, and traditions that are showcased in the event.
The main attraction of LA Guelaguetza is the “Lunes del Cerro” (Mondays on the Hill), which are two days of performances that take place on the last two Mondays of July at the Auditorium Guelaguetza, located on the Cerro del Fortín. This year, the dates are July 17 and 24, and there will be two shows per day, one at 10:00 am and another at 5:00 pm. The tickets for the best seats (palco A and B) range from 1,000 to 1,500 pesos (about 50 to 75 USD), and they can be purchased online or at authorized points of sale. The seats in rows C and D are free, but they are limited and require queuing up early.
However, La Guelaguetza is more than just the Lunes del Cerro. The whole month of July is filled with activities that showcase the best of Oaxaca’s culture, gastronomy, art and crafts. Some of the highlights are:
- The Convites (parades) of LA Guelaguetza, which take place on July 1, 7, and 8 at 7:00 pm in the main streets of the historic center. They feature dancers, musicians, giant puppets, and fireworks.
- The Festival of the Moles takes place on July 14 at 2:00 pm at the Cultural and Convention Center of Oaxaca. It is a gastronomic event where visitors can taste different varieties of mole, a traditional sauce made with chilies, spices, nuts, and chocolate.
- The Week of the Antojos (cravings), takes place from July 14 to 25 from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Juarez Park. It is a food fair where visitors can sample different dishes and snacks from Oaxaca’s cuisine, such as Tlayudas, empanadas, Quesillo, Chapulines, and more.
La Guelaguetza is a unique opportunity to experience the diversity and beauty of Oaxaca’s culture. If you are planning to visit Oaxaca this year, don’t miss it!
Source: Guelaguetza 2023: las 5 ferias de Oaxaca
