Guelaguetza, the Magic of Oaxaca in a Festival

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.

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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.

Get to Know Guelaguetza

Guelaguetza is one of the most important celebrations in Oaxaca, one of the most magical states in the country. Its charm lies in the way pre-Hispanic traditions have managed to endure over time. Guelaguetza is one of them.

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Its name comes from the Zapotec word 'guendalezaa,' meaning 'offering.' Additionally, like many words that adorn our vocabulary, it carries a connotation. In this case, locals describe it as a way of giving. At El Callejón, one of the luxury hotels in Oaxaca, we use this local value to provide the best service to our guests.

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On the other hand, it also refers to the hill party, as many Oaxacans know it. Various activities happen at this festival. Below, we'll tell you more about them, so you won't miss out.

A Pre-Hispanic Tradition

The origin of Guelaguetza dates back to pre-Hispanic times. The reason for its celebration was to perform a ritual for the gods, making these dates essential for the people of Oaxaca. However, the festival celebrated before is not the same; the one we don't know transformed over the years with Spanish influence. In fact, it is now celebrated with the Virgin of Carmen.

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This tradition begins a week before the day of the Virgin of Carmen with the 'convite.' This is a grand parade where the 'Chinas Oaxaqueñas' make their stellar appearance, with women from the city carrying baskets of flowers and the company of the seven regions that participate: Los Valles Centrales, La Sierra Juárez, La Cañada, Tuxtepec, La Mixteca, Istmo de Tehuantepec, and La Costa; all while playing their regional music.

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The first day dawns with the music of the 'chirimiteros,' playing 'las mañanitas' in various temples of Oaxaca. This is the signal for all the inhabitants to go to the iconic Cerro del Fortín, where the entire celebration takes place.

When you arrive at the hill, various food stalls will welcome you. You can have coffee or try exquisite Oaxacan dishes such as 'enchiladas with tasajo,' some tamales, and tasty empanadas with yellow mole while enjoying the marimba and the chirimiteros playing regional music.

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After a while, the show takes place, consisting of musical presentations, dances, and songs, where each of the seven regions represents its cultural heritage.

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This year, the 'Lunes del Cerro' (Mondays on the Hill) will be on July 25 and August 1, but the celebrations are already reaching the city. If you haven't booked a room yet, what are you waiting for? Luxury hotels in Oaxaca will be the first to fill up, so reserve at El Callejón.

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Why Enjoy Guelaguetza?

Visiting Oaxaca during Guelaguetza is a unique experience. The entire city is painted with tradition, culture, and celebration. During the weeks of its duration, the 'calendas' or parades flood the streets. If you add to this staying in one of the beautiful hotels in Oaxaca like El Callejón, it will be the best trip of the year.

Also, during your stay, you can enjoy other events such as the mole festival, brushstrokes of tradition, the 'representation of Donají, the legend,' the tejate and tamale fair, the mezcal fair, and the craft fair.

You can't miss any of these activities, so you need a room in the best hotel in Oaxaca de Juárez. El Callejón is the best choice; our facilities capture the essence of local culture. Additionally, we are in a privileged location, just a few blocks from the Historic Center of the city.

Do you want personalized service and privacy for your next trip to Oaxaca? Book with us through our website or contact the following phone lines: (951) 351 1564 and (951) 351 5917. Follow us on our Instagram @hotelelcallejon.oaxaca. Find us at Callejón Morelos No. 103 in the oldest neighborhood of Xochimilco, Oaxaca de Juárez, Mexico."