Guelaguetza is an event that happens once a year. Therefore, the city of Oaxaca is filled with visitors from different parts of the country, even from around the world. If you're planning to come this year, don't forget to book your room at El Callejón, one of the luxury hotels in Oaxaca.
In this article, we will tell you all about Guelaguetza. This way, when you're enjoying the traditional dances on the Cerro, you'll know a bit more about this 100% Oaxacan tradition.
La Guelaguetza is one of the most important and emblematic festivities in Oaxaca, a state where pre-Hispanic traditions have stood the test of time, preserving their rich cultural essence. This vibrant celebration embodies the spirit of unity and generosity that defines the Oaxacan people.
Its name originates from the Zapotec word "guendalezaa," meaning offering. However, La Guelaguetza represents much more than just an exchange of goods—it symbolizes solidarity, the joy of sharing, and the strengthening of community bonds. This is why it is also known as the Fiesta del Cerro, where Oaxaca’s eight regions gather to showcase traditional dances, music, and heritage at the iconic Guelaguetza Auditorium.
At El Callejón Hotel Boutique, a Luxury Hotel in Oaxaca, we are deeply inspired by these local values, ensuring that our guests experience authenticity and warmth in every detail of their stay. Our mission is to offer a space where culture, art, and comfort merge, allowing you to connect with the true essence of Oaxaca in an exceptional and intimate way.
If you plan to experience Guelaguetza 2025, don’t miss the many cultural events surrounding the main celebration. From colorful parades and artisanal exhibitions to gastronomic showcases and live concerts, this festival is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca.
The origins of La Guelaguetza date back to pre-Hispanic times, when indigenous communities performed rituals in honor of their gods as acts of gratitude and unity. With the arrival of the Spaniards, the celebration integrated Catholic influences, merging with festivities dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, shaping the tradition we know today.
In 2025, La Guelaguetza will take place on Monday, July 21 and Monday, July 28, at the iconic Guelaguetza Auditorium, perched atop Cerro del Fortín. However, the magic of this festival begins well before those dates, as Oaxaca transforms into a city of celebration and tradition through a series of cultural events and vibrant gatherings.
A week before the main event, the streets of Oaxaca come alive with music and color during the traditional convite, a grand parade that marks the official start of the festivities. This is when the famous Chinas Oaxaqueñas, dressed in their colorful embroidered skirts and carrying flower-adorned baskets, take to the streets, accompanied by delegations from Oaxaca’s eight regions:
Each region showcases its distinctive music and traditional dances, creating an immersive experience that captures the festive spirit of both locals and visitors.
Another unmissable element of La Guelaguetza is the Calendas, spectacular nighttime processions where communities parade through the city carrying paper lanterns, marmotas (giant fabric spheres), and towering figures known as monos de calenda, all accompanied by the vibrant sound of traditional brass bands. These joyous parades invite everyone to join in, blending dance, music, and celebration in a way that is both immersive and deeply meaningful.
During your stay in Oaxaca for the 2025 Guelaguetza season, you won’t just witness the breathtaking dances and music of the state’s eight regions—you’ll also have the chance to immerse yourself in a variety of cultural and culinary events. Some highlights include:
To fully experience these incredible events, you deserve a sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and stay immersed in the true essence of Oaxaca.
If you seek comfort, design, and exceptional service, El Callejón Hotel Boutique is the perfect choice. This Luxury Hotel in Oaxaca embodies the essence of local culture in every detail, from its architecture to the handcrafted elements that adorn its spaces. Its prime location in the historic Xochimilco neighborhood, just a few blocks from the city center, allows you to experience the Guelaguetza and other cultural events with ease.
At El Callejón Hotel Boutique, you'll find not only privacy and tranquility, but also personalized service that will make your stay in Oaxaca truly unforgettable.
Experience the Guelaguetza with the comfort and luxury you deserve. We look forward to welcoming you!
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