Oaxaca Events You Shouldn't Miss in 2023

Another year begins, offering us the opportunity to enjoy the best annual events in Oaxaca. We recommend starting to book your hotel in Oaxaca de Juárez if you're thinking of attending any of the following must-see events.

Certainly, the best tip for embarking on a trip is to plan ahead. Flights and hotel rooms in Oaxaca de Juárez will be more accessible, allowing you to schedule everything in advance. Therefore, in the following article, we will share information about the most important traditional events in the capital of Oaxaca.

What are the traditional events in Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is a magical state due to its tradition and culture. Oaxacans continue to preserve pre-Hispanic traditions that have adapted to new societies. Some of these traditions are part of the state's event calendar, which you can enjoy this year once you book at the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca.

Among the most popular ones are the following; do not hesitate to mark them on your calendar if you are interested in attending any of them:

La Guelaguetza

We've all heard of La Guelaguetza. Perhaps, this is the most mythical and fun tradition in the state. Due to its popularity, it is essential to mark your calendar in mid-July, so you will be ready to enjoy the dance, gastronomy, and colors that this festival entails. A tip to secure a spot is to mark on your calendar the Mondays closest to the Virgin of Carmen.

Within the framework of La Guelaguetza, there are events you shouldn't miss, for example:

  • Lunes del Cerro (July 17 and 24, 2023)
  • La Leyenda de Donají (July 16 and 23, 2023)
  • Las Calendas

La Noche de Rábanos

This tradition is part of the Christmas celebrations in Oaxaca. La Noche de Rábanos takes place every year on December 23 in the historic center of the city. Therefore, it is always recommended to look for accommodation in the center, making it easier to move around and explore the city.

But what is this tradition about? La Noche de Rábanos is a day when children and adult artisans carve creative figures on radishes or on totomoxtle leaves and the immortal flower to compete.

Also, during this festival, it is common to eat buñuelos and break the plate in which they are served. The broken pieces of the plate usually symbolize the luck the person will have next year. This tradition is perfect if you want to spend Christmas in a hotel in Oaxaca de Juárez.

Martes de Brujas

In case you enjoy the magical aspect of Oaxaca, Martes de Brujas (Witches' Tuesday) may be interesting for you. However, it is worth noting that this tradition specifically occurs in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, a town located 5 km from the Oaxacan capital.

Martes de Brujas takes place during the Lenten vigil, making it a nighttime celebration where the town is illuminated by lamps called "brujas" (witches). This tradition began during colonial times when they built the church, working day and night. Ladies brought tamales to their husbands, who were working on the construction, and you could see several lights from the flames they used to illuminate themselves—these are the famous little witches. During this celebration, tamales and atole are eaten in the main square of the town, while live music plays with renowned artists.

Carnivals

Carnivals have their origin in the celebration before Lent. Their aim is to rid the body of all its carnal desires to live the Lenten fast. In some cultures, it is said that they serve to bid farewell to demons. While the most famous carnival in the world is in Rio de Janeiro, Oaxaca also celebrates it in a very special way, but in Oaxaca, it is known as Calenda.

In Oaxaca, the calenda is a moment to experience its cultural and folkloric richness. So, if you are looking for a different way to enjoy your stay in boutique hotels in Oaxaca, this is a great option.

When is the best time to visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca can be visited throughout the year. The weather is always pleasant, and there is a wide range of intimate and beautiful hotels in the historic center. Any of the festivals described above will be a great excuse to visit and take a piece of Oaxacan culture with you.

The answer will depend on what you expect from the trip. If you want to spend your summer vacation in Oaxaca, it is a good time to experience La Guelaguetza and the various fairs that take place during those dates. On the other hand, if you are looking for a magical Christmas, Oaxaca can also provide that since it is a city surrounded by mountains, making you feel like you're in a fairy tale.

If you wonder where you can stay, Hotel El Callejón is your best option. We invite you to visit our website, where you will learn about our facilities and the amenities we have for you.

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