The Guelaguetza
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The word Guelaguetza comes from the Zapotec term guendalezaa which means “offering, gift or fulfillment”. It is one of the most beloved traditions in the state of Oaxaca.
Chinas Oaxaqueñas (An icon and tradition of the patron saint festivities in the city of Oaxaca. For more than 60 years they have prepared day after day to show off their joyful dances and traditional gala dresses, arriving with the colorful baskets that complete their look.)
When summer is in full swing, the city of Oaxaca bursts into song, dance and music with the Guelaguetza celebration. This is how it is lived year after year.
When is the Guelaguetza?
The Guelaguetza is celebrated once a year in July.
The truth is that the city of Oaxaca celebrates the festivity all month long. You will find activities everywhere; however, the main celebration takes place on the two Mondays following July 16, except when the first Monday falls on July 18. In that case, the Guelaguetza is celebrated on July 25 and August 1.
The celebration begins on July 16, a date that, as you will notice, coincides with the feast of the Virgen del Carmen. It is no coincidence.
Some of the most popular performances are reenactments of the pre-Hispanic era, featuring myths and legends typical of Zapotec culture. However, the festival covers all of Mexico’s history in 4 major periods.
- Pre-Hispanic era: typically, you can enjoy the dances the Mexica people performed in honor of Centéotl.
- Colonial era: a procession is held for the Virgen del Carmen; when it ends, a lively kermés breaks out with marmotas, chinas de calenda and the “zancudos” (stilt dancers) of Zaachila.
- Independent Mexico: you will see a procession of themed floats with catrinas.
- Contemporary era: a gala showcases the main traditional costumes from each of Oaxaca’s 7 regions: the Valles Centrales, the Sierra Juárez, La Cañada, Tuxtepec, La Mixteca, La Costa and the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.
Flor de Piña
One of the most popular and eagerly awaited dances at the Guelaguetza is the Flor de Piña dance, which represents the Cuenca del Papaloapan region, centered in San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec.
