Already a member? Not a member? Sign up Explore our Food Tours → On my way out of Oaxaca center and on to the city of Santa Catarina Minas a good friend suggested I make a pit stop to visit “Frida.” Him: “You’d better go and try her chile encuerado.” I find my way to Mercado Morelos in Ocotlán’s main square and immediately head for the many eateries in the medium-sized market’s food aisle butterflies and other insects – with these tell-tale motifs of the tormented artist there can be no mistaking La Cocina de Frida a traditional Mexican version of the mortar and pestle and a cornerstone of our local cuisine Wearing a colorfully embroidered frock and fresh flowers in her hair this Frida sports a sweet smile beneath her bold brows While Frida Kahlo the painter was born in Coyoacán our Frida is from here in Oaxaca (like Kahlo’s mother) Frida/Beatriz brings breakfast over to the table: pan de yema (egg yolk bread) and chocolate de agua (Mexican hot chocolate). The drink is aromatic and delicate, the best I have tried on this latest trip to Oaxaca. As I sit contemplating the chocolate, a tasting plate of moles and salsas arrives and I realize why my friend insisted I come to Frida’s velvet textures and flavors of each mole are total knockouts I feel I should leave the rest of my meal in Frida/Beatriz’s hands She sends out carne de puerco con verdolagas (pork with purslane) purslane season would mean my mom cooking up batches of the succulent weed giving them an al dente exterior and a suavecito (tender) center has been working in a kitchen for 26 years and it’s clear she knows what she is doing “I first learned how to cook thanks to my father Her customers are regulars who come for the mole estofado The latter are prepared using a Oaxacan chile known as chile de agua It is stuffed with almond-roasted chicken and served inside a tortilla plated over a stew of the customer’s choosing This is not food intended to please tourists The homage to the famous artist is no gimmick or millennial marketing So I shoot the question directly to Beatriz: “Frida why are you Frida?” She smiles at me and says: “Several years ago people started saying I look like Frida Kahlo Frida has brought us good luck.” That luck carried them through the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic – La Cocina de Frida is a survivor “We had to close for five months because we couldn’t operate with just two customers a day The expenses were getting higher and higher,” she says Now they are back to serving their regulars at Mercado Morelos Ocotlán is well known for its historic tianguis (open-air markets) fine craftsmanship (like the bespoke hats at Alberly Sombrero) handmade pottery and the Rodolfo Morales museum Morales was one of the most important Mexican painters of the 20th century whose legacy lives on in its own way at Ocotlán’s La Cocina de Frida I finish my enchiladas verdes with carne adobada (marinated pork) knowing both La Cocina de Frida and Frida Kahlo’s name are in the loving hands of a true cook from Oaxaca our most notable Nobel-winning poet: Mexicans are beings who like to wear masks loading map - please wait...Map could not be loaded - please enable Javascript!→ more information Looking remarkably like the fabled Mexican artist Beatriz Vázquez Gómez also draws crowds with her speciality cooking Deep inside the market in the town of Ocotlán de Morelos, 35km south of Oaxaca City in southern Mexico, the artist Frida Kahlo is still alive Every morning before heading to her food stall in the town’s central market who bears a striking resemblance to the Mexican artist She puts on bright lipstick and a traditional Tehuana long embroidered skirt puts flowers in her hair and pencils in the prominent Kahlo brows She then walks past hundreds of vendors selling fresh blue-corn tortillas fried chapulines (grasshoppers) and gusanos de maguey (mezcal worms) the state known as Mexico’s culinary capital Chicken mole is a dish Beatriz has cooked all her life Photograph: Omar Torres/AFP/Getty ImagesBeatriz’s mother opened this food stall 60 years ago but many people in the market told me I looked like the painter,” she says “So I read about her and she became my hero While seeing La Frida Kahlo de Ocotlán in the flesh is what draws people to the market locals and tourists stay for her Oaxacan specialities Communal tables at Frida’s are usually full of shoppers tucking in to typical fare such as estofado (stew) enfrijoladas (tortillas folded around creamy black beans) chiles rellenos (stuffed chillies) and her famous mole coloradito (spicy red sauce) “This is what I’ve cooked all my life,” Beatriz says “I love preparing mole – toasting chillies OCOTLÁN DE MORELOS – “Look up to the El Peral mountains That is where we do our ritual ceremony to call for rain,” says Josefina Santiago flowers and a maize beverage called tejate to ask for gentle rainfall We call ourselves water sowers: [we are] reclaiming our traditional rituals while developing absorption wells Josefina lives on her family’s agroecological farm in El Porvenir a small village of 600 inhabitants in Oaxaca valley the three women are part of the 16 Indigenous Zapotec communities that decided to take action regarding the region’s water shortage and replenish their underground aquifers The water was more than 10 meters deep [in wells] water levels are really low,” explains Esperanza while throwing a rock in one of the irrigation wells Their collective struggle began in 2005 with the Coordination of Peoples United for the Defense and Care of Water (COPUDA) and the support of Flor y Canto are one of the few female leaders in COPUDA and hope to enhance gender equality in the communities’ political spaces Although the rainy season began at the beginning of May Zapotec communities were still waiting for the first long rain to replenish their farms and gardens with daily temperatures hovering around 35 degrees Celsius The landscape was dry and dehydrated sunflowers dotted the horizon near Esperanza’s home it had only lightly rained three times since the beginning of the year had not received any rainfall since January This has led to a flow of migration out of the community “The current situation reminds us of the severe drought that occurred 17 years ago,” says Josephina while braiding her niece’s hair we started our collective work to promote practical alternatives to harvesting water It was such a [good] moment to start our movement: we have never stopped since.” 579 water infrastructure projects have been created in the entire region the Mexican Institute of Technology (IMTA) and the National Institute of Indigenous People (INPI) from digging holes in the ground for water pans and wells the absorption wells – located along the sides of the street or under rooftops – collect it and ensure that the water goes underground “This absorption well has been in operation for two years,” says María She is in charge of the COPUDA committee in San Antonino Castillo Velasco a few kilometers or miles from Esperanza’s village with 20 meters containing sand to filter the water before it goes into the aquifer […] then into the irrigation well.” These installations raise water levels in the irrigation wells while regenerating the soil Water resources are also preserved by using small dams located in rivers or streams and water pans that retain water and provide a source for thirsty wildlife Water pans are large rectangular pits cut into the ground tarping which retains rainwater by preventing it from seeping into the soil This water is directly collected by farmers At the corner of Josephina’s vegetable garden a water pan still bears water from the last few rainfalls earlier this year some neighbors told us that the water level [in their irrigation wells] increased so fast It was the most significant proof that our ideas were working,” concludes Josefina while walking among opuntia cactus “[COPUDA’s] work to retain water in wells and infiltrate it into the subsoil also helps control erosion and increase water-bearing there are still some challenges such as wastewater management organization among communities and administration,” says Salvator Anta an Oaxacan biologist of the Mexican Civil Council for Sustainable Forestry (CCMSS) who has followed their work since the beginning “The benefits are not for individuals but also for the entire region.” More water in the subsoils also brings many other benefits to ecosystems in Zapotec Indigenous communities “Those systems created a microclimate that regenerated soils and boosted the return of wild fauna and flora The farmers told us that they saw more ducks vultures and eared doves drinking or flying around the water pans,” explains Misael Antonio Martínez some farmers still struggle despite the water conservation projects due to recurrent droughts and lack of rain If communities don’t receive rainfall in the first place their water conservation efforts fall to dust The three female leaders hope more efforts are put in place to help communities secure water and adapt to drought “Why is Conagua [the National Water Commission] not doing autonomous perforation or installations to find more water for our communities?” asks Esperanza who is in charge of the COPUDA committee of San Sebastian Ocotlán She works as a farmer and chef during parties to prepare mole sauces or sell in the market she grew vegetables and ornamental flowers only aromatic herbs are present in a plot rented from a neighbor “I will have to ask my landowner for a discount this activity is not sustainable for me due to the current drought,” explains Esperanza two absorbing wells follow the rainwaters’ path Salvator Anta says that other efforts to conserve water in the region include maintaining the wells and improving technology needed during the drought epochs Local activists are also trying to involve more people in water conservation projects educate community members to avoid water waste and develop rainfall measurement methods to have a concrete idea of their climate situation They are also getting ready for new opportunities. In 2021, after a long communitarian plebiscite, the Mexican government gave the COPUDA-participating communities a concession to autonomously manage their aquifer but there are still some challenges they must face “We are still waiting for the concession’s delivery date: I feel that the government is scared to give us concrete power Whoever controls water now rules the world,” says Josefina water activism also means setting an example to others “We have a tremendous responsibility [with the concession],” concludes María “But we are determined to do it well and inspire other communities to follow the same path.” The town of 6,000 inhabitants has more than 160 absorption wells located close to food stands a radio station that broadcasts in the Zapotec language “I have been working as a hairdresser for more than two decades I’m aware that my work contaminates water so I felt the need to contribute to the common good,” explains María my father sent me to a COPUDA reunion; then I was elected to the directive committee We are just a few women in executive positions you always have to consider her multiple roles as a worker housekeeper and mother,” María tells Mongabay the renowned founder of the Indigenous organization her companion Beatriz Salinas is in charge Esperanza and María say they still face numerous difficulties while leading water conservation efforts we don’t have the culture of female work in the committee [directive],” explains Josefina two colleagues said that I came to this place by being an ofrecida [easy woman].” Esperanza shares that some companions say that she participates in the reunions only to waste time because she doesn’t have a husband “I feel that our work is always judged more than our companions,” adds María “A lot of men did a worse job in the administration Female Indigenous leaders face both patriarchy that is embedded within their communities and discrimination for being Indigenous Zapotec in the public sphere professor of sociology of community at the National Polytechnic Institute Oaxaca (CIIDIR) female [Indigenous] leadership has always been there I think that it has been a constant in history But now it is becoming much more visible due to female leadership and the ecological crisis.” Some male members of COPUDA’s committee hope the organization will address gender equality issues a branch of the Canadian Fortuna Silver Mines contaminated local streams with iron and fluoride the three women say they hope their collective efforts will help secure water resources for all communities in the future just a short distance from Josefina’s ranch Esperanza goes to water her thyme and chepiche garden She connects the pump to the irrigation well when suddenly a loudspeaker announces the upcoming municipal reunion for water maintenance “Our efforts are for the common good: you don’t know if the water collected will benefit you or your neighbor’s [irrigation wells],” Esperanza explains “Having water is the most important thing for the farmers Banner image: Josefina Santiago on her agroecological farm where she grows maize Editor’s note: A previous version of this story stated that the Cutzcatlán mine contaminated local streams with iron and aluminum but the contaminants were iron and fluoride Related listening from Mongabay’s podcast: A conversation with author and journalist Erica Gies describes humanity’s water harnessing problem outlined in her book Water Always Wins and how ‘slow water’ solutions can not only help us harness the water we have but also restore the biodiversity and natural landscapes we’ve lost Indigenous agroforestry dying of thirst amid a sea of avocados in Mexico FEEDBACK: Use this form to send a message to the author of this post The “fortress conservation” model is under pressure in East Africa as protected areas become battlegrounds over history and global efforts to halt biodiversity loss Mongabay’s Special Issue goes beyond the region’s world-renowned safaris to examine how rural communities and governments are reckoning with conservation’s colonial origins and trying to forge a path forward […] Icon DONATE premieres string orchestra works by Natalia Domínguez Rangel and Eduardo Aguilar. Please note: This event will take place at St Paul's Chapel at Columbia University (1160 Amsterdam Ave Registration for this event is now closed. Americas Society members get priority access to Music concerts. Not a member? Join today! Contact membership@as-coa.org with any questions Video of the concert will be released at a later date. Remember to follow us to watch this and other exciting performances Natalia Domínguez Rangel's Chaos Circles was commissioned by Americas Society to be premiered at this concert. Natalia Domínguez Rangel is a Colombian/Dutch visual artist and music composer currently living and working in Vienna and Amsterdam Her work delves into the intersection of sound and sculpture Driven by a deep curiosity about the connection between sound and sculpture she explores how these two mediums can intertwine and interaction forms the bedrock of her artistic endeavors as she deftly responds to the surrounding environment and current events and draws inspiration from everyday listening experiences as well as the acoustic impacts in our environment. Domínguez Rangel's exploration goes beyond the surface as she delves into the realms of critical listening and the broader acoustic ecologies that exist beyond human-generated sounds By focusing on the physiological and psychological impact of sound on the body and environment she seeks to deepen our understanding and connection to the sonic world around us Domínguez Rangel explores a visual representation of critical listening delving into the intricate layers of structures This detailed approach invites viewers to engage with the hidden nuances of sound and its impact and encourages a profound contemplation of our own bodily ecosystems and their interconnectedness with the environment. Domínguez Rangel has exhibited her works throughout Europe and Latin America in various contexts She is a docent in the field of Sound Studies since 2017 at Design Art Technology department of ArtEZ and teaches Sound in Sculpture at Universität für Musik und Darstellende Kunst (mdw) in Vienna Eduardo Aguilar was born in 1991 in Ocotlán de Morelos He studied composition at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) His graduation thesis "Autoreflection” was distinguished with honors in October 2018 Aguilar investigates his own process of creation addressing issues around the concepts of idea Aguilar has won several competitions including the “NEW Special Ensemble Prize” of the Impronta Ensemble Composition Competition (Germany the “JACK Studio” project of the Jack Quartet (United States two categories of the composition competition “The music of tectonic and volcanic seismicity” of UNAM's Institute of Geophysics (Mexico the “Competition for the Creation of the University Seminar of Research and Artistic Creation UNAM” (Mexico) the “Concurso de Composición para Orquesta de Cámara Arturo Márquez” (Mexico the first edition of the “Cátedra Extraordinaria de Composición Musical Arturo Márquez – UNAM” (Mexico and the “Programa de Estímulo a la Creación y Desarrollo Artístico del Estado de Oaxaca – PECDA” (Mexico as well as distinctions in the first “Concurso Internacional de Cuartetos de Cuerda: Nuestra América” (Mexico the “II International Composition Competition SBALZ” (Spain or a dark tunnel of 18 meters are some of the objects found in his works His musical practice has extended to other disciplines instructions for musicians to build sculptures with their instruments He has experimented in audiovisual platforms He has developed multidisciplinary projects that include: humor and text; history and music; polysensory sculptures; geophysics; and movement Aguilar has elaborated studies where he explores space through visual and sound intensity and the self-representation of concepts in abstract Winner of the 2019 Academy Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters David Fulmer has garnered numerous international accolades for his bold compositional aesthetic combined with his thrilling performances and a leader in his generation of composer-performers the success of his violin concerto at Lincoln Center in 2010 earned international attention and resulted in immediate engagement to perform the work with major orchestras and at festivals in the United Kingdom Fulmer made his European debut performing and recording his concerto with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Matthias Pintscher in 2011 Fulmer made his debut at Tanglewood appearing with the work. A surge of recent and upcoming commissions include new works for the New York Philharmonic Scharoun Ensemble of the Berlin Philharmonic Fulmer recently led the NFM Wroclaw Philharmonic Orchestra along with appearances at the New York Philharmonic Biennial Recent and upcoming highlights include important debuts leading the Ensemble Intercontemporain and assisting with concerts and projects of the New York Philharmonic He was Director and Curator of Prisms and Antiphons—a music commissioning inititative at the Everson Museum of Art in Syracuse He began his residency at the Everson Museum in the fall of 2021 Fulmer made a triumphant return to the NFM Wroclaw Philharmonic Orchestra which included a collaboration with IRCAM. he returns as curator and conductor of the Mannes American Composers Ensemble in programs of twentieth and twenty-first Century music and continues his close collaboration with the International Contemporary Ensemble Appointed as the Music Director and Conductor of the Hunter Symphony Orchestra Fulmer will lead the orchestra in his fifth season He made his debut appearance in 2014 on the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s Green Umbrella series at Walt Disney Concert Hall Fulmer has led concerts at the Chamber Music Northwest Festival and Lincoln Center’s Mostly Mozart Festival Fulmer was the recipient of both the Charles Ives Fellowship from the American Academy of Arts and Letters and the Carlos Surinach Commissioning Award from BMI He is the first American recipient of the Grand Prize of the International Edvard Grieg Competition for Composers He has also received the ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Award the Charles Ives Scholarship from the American Academy of Arts and Letters a special citation from the Minister of Education of Brazil the Hannah Komanoff Scholarship in Composition from The Juilliard School and the highly coveted George Whitefield Chadwick Gold Medal from the New England Conservatory. Fulmer appears regularly and records often with the premiere new music ensembles in New York including the International Contemporary Ensemble His work has been recorded by the Ensemble Intercontemporain He has appeared recently on the Great Performers Series at Lincoln Center The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center The Hunter Symphony is comprised of students from Hunter College as well as the metropolitan area and involves collaboration and instruction with experienced professional players It performs two concerts each semester for the Hunter College community. The MetLife Foundation Music of the Americas concert series is made possible by the generous support of Presenting Sponsor MetLife Foundation. New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature © 2025 Americas Society/Council of the Americas The 87th edition of the Guelaguetza kicked off yesterday in Oaxaca city where the annual celebration of the indigenous traditions of Oaxaca’s eight regions drew a record-breaking 15,000 visitors the star of Alfonso Cuarón’s Roma and the face of this year’s Guelaguetza accompanied by Oaxaca Governor Alejandro Murat and federal Tourism Secretary Miguel Torruco Marqués The delegation of Chinas Oaxaqueñas from the state’s Central Valleys region launched the festivities with a lively jarabe balancing baskets of flowers on their heads as they whirled around the auditorium with giant paper-mâché figures huge paper lanterns and decorative symbols They were followed by representatives from Chicapa de Castro in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec who delighted the audience with The Kidnapping and the Carrying of the Trunk a representation of a traditional wedding in the region Huautla de Jiménez and Tlaxiaco also presented traditional dances from each of their regions culminating in an emotional performance of Canción mixteca a famous song by Oaxacan composer José López Alavez that evokes the loneliness and longing he felt while living far from his home state The audience gave loud approval for the myriad colors and intricate choreography displayed in other spectacles from the dancers of Santa María Tlahuitoltepec with their sones mixes to a feather dance by representatives from Zaachila and even The Taking of the Turkey by the delegation from Ocotlán de Morelos during the presentation of the delegation from Putla Villa de Guerrero the dancers invited the representatives from the other 22 delegations to join in the fun Even Governor Murat could not contain himself from moving to the happy rhythms of the Mixtecan sones and chilenas kindling the celebration’s festive spirit in one of the largest crowds of spectators the Guelaguetza has ever seen A variety of other festivities will follow throughout the week until next Monday when the dancers will once again meet at the auditorium to continue with the second show Source: Milenio (sp) ADVERTISE WITH MND COMMUNITY GUIDELINES Subscription FAQ's Privacy Policy Mexico News Daily - Property of Tavana LLC Collectors seeking traditional black pottery or painted wooden figures can arrange visits to the homes and workshops of the artisans Here’s our guide to the featured crafts from the state of Oaxaca Support your favorite artisans! Because the pandemic discourages travel, many of our artisan friends are selling online. Planeta.com will be updating our Folk Art and Where to Buy Oaxaca crafts pages.Special kudos to our friend weaver / photographer Verónica Lazo Mendoza ¡Apoya a tus artesanos favoritos! Debido a que la pandemia desalienta los viajes, muchos de nuestros amigos artesanos venden en línea. Planeta.com actualizará nuestras páginas de Arte Popular y Dónde comprar artesanías de Oaxaca la tejedora / fotógrafa Verónica Lazo Mendoza Craft-making TownsSan Agustin Etla – With two paper-making workshops in San Agustin Etla Oaxaca may be witnessing the birth of a cottage industry.Santa Ana del Valle – Tour this market town 34 kilometers EAST of Oaxaca City The town has a museum with various archaeological objects as well as examples of weaving techniques and natural dyes Teotitlan Del Valle – Make sure you make time to visit this village which specializes in rug weaving. Dozens of weavers open their workshops to the public. Read more. San Bartolo Coyotepec – The town is famous for its black pottery Visit the new museum of popular art and the white market on the west side of the highway San Martin Tilcajete – Family homes and workshops producing the famous wooden figures are spread out troughout town La Union Tejalapam – Known for its production of alebrijes this town boasts a great landscape for biking Getting there from Oaxaca City: Head north and past the town of Brenamiel but before the start of the new highway (nueva carretera) take a left where there’s a sign post for San Lorenzo Cacaotepec San Antonino Castillo Velasco – Located near Ocotlán de Morelos this town produces embroidered dresses using silk and cotton in a detailed fashion that requires several months to complete San Antonio Arrazola – This is the cradle of the wooden figures or alebrijes Rugs (Tapetes) — The Zapotecs call their weavings laadi and you’ll find beautiful rugs in Santa Ana del Valle and Teotitlán del Valle Wool rugs made in the weaving villages are popular around the world you can purchase the rugs at the following markets in Oaxaca City: Artesania Textiles — Woven textiles — blouses tableclothes — are very popular in Oaxaca Look for cotton products produced on back-strap looms in Santo Tomás Jalieza and quality embroidery in San Antonino Castillo Velasco near Ocotlán Wooden Figures (Alebrijes) — San Martin Tilcajete San Antonio Arrazola and La Union Tejalapam the brightly colored carvings are a recent addition to folk arts are among the best-selling Mexican folk art in the world Alebrijes are monster-type figures that were developed in the style of popular paper mache figures In the towns of San Martin Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola the figures are carved from the twisted branches of the copal tree The wood has a particular fragrance and its resin has been burned in ceremonial incense burners for thousands of years Pottery (Ceramica) — Atzompa A few words about buying crafts in OaxacaPricing — Prices vary depending on the quality of the product and where you make your purchase prices in Oaxaca City’s Mercado de Artesanias are generally no higher than what you find in artisan homes Shipping — Most craft shops can pack your purchases for shipment So if you see something fragile you’d like to get home in one piece ask if they can pack the materials securely Go on your own — If you go to craft villages on your own Many package tours insist on a commission (paid from the artisan to the guide) and rates can go up to 40% not a show,” says one tourism expert For more info— Shoppers interested in understanding how traditional craft production fits in to conscientious travel and ecotourism should review our guide to Tourism and Crafts Headlineshttps://www.orartswatch.org/richard-keis-photographing-the-craftspeople-of-oaxaca/ Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value" Theme: NewsUp by Themeansar 43,000+ global companies doing business in the region. 102,000+ key contacts related to companies and projects Analysis, reports, news and interviews about your industry in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Liliana López & Mariana Camacho You can’t appreciate Oaxaca if you visit just once There are a ton of baroque churches and colonial architecture to check out along with big celebrations throughout the year such as the Day of the Dead and Guelaguetza And that’s not even mentioning the food—there’s so much variety and complexity to discover within both the city and the eponymous Mexican state Street vendors and restaurants use seemingly endless types of native corn to cook up tlayudas Excellent mercados grill meats and whip up plates of eggs cooked on the comal at breakfast And let’s not forget: this is the hub of mezcal You’ll find all of that and more in our guide to Oaxaca’s best restaurants, which includes family-run spots for life-changing mole, longstanding market stalls, and newcomers like Bodaega or Cobarde that are bringing Asian and European influences adding an extra layer of deliciousness to the scene Oaxaca 68000">.css-56eu0z{width:1em;height:1em;display:inline-block;line-height:1em;-webkit-flex-shrink:0;-ms-flex-negative:0;flex-shrink:0;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray100);vertical-align:middle;fill:currentColor;}Jesús Carranza 110 This is one of the best street stalls and taco spots in the city when they’re making all of the above on the spot with fresh corn dough in their two coal-fired comals and amarillo empanada filled with chicken stew and tomato They also have some solid vegetarian options like zucchini flower tacos and mushroom quesadillas PlayUnmuteCobarde Calle de Macedonio Alcalá 505 Oaxaca Fusion Centro but their approach to food is anything but timid and heavily spiced dishes that taste like someone turned up the volume of music in your mouth A perfect introduction to this fusion is the chicken dumplings served with gochujang and soy sauce Other reasons to keep coming back: You can sit on the terrace and enjoy views of the iconic Santo Domingo temple or have a sexy date under the low lights at night over a martini or miso margarita made with tequila Middle Eastern Xochimilco Adamá is situated in a less crowded area of the city tucked away in Aldama Alley behind a wall covered with vibrant bougainvillea Israeli-born chef Hagar Aviram serves classic Middle Eastern dishes to locals and travelers looking for a change of pace from all that corn-based and masa-centric Oaxacan food (heads up: the cash-only restaurant is open Sundays only) PlayUnmuteCriollo Oaxacan Criollo’s dinner tasting menu and taco bar but the move is to come here and feast at breakfast or brunch You can sit on the patio—with its large picnic-style tables and chickens roaming freely—and take in the big-portioned à la carte meal that’s more focused on Oaxacan classics and spotlight-stealing baked goods Your breakfast-and-brunch-of-champions can start with chocolate de agua or a café de olla accompanied by a fluffy concha that’s particularly irresistible or enmoladas de coloradito starring one of their many moles made with chile pasilla and chile ancho like the hangover remedy michelada or carajillo PlayUnmuteBodaega Avenida Miguel Hidalgo 1203 Oaxaca Bakery/Cafe Sourdough breads and puffed pastries are made with great care at this cozy panadería where you can literally break bread at a communal table or order to-go The founder is an Oaxacan baker trained in Denmark who has found the sweet spot between European techniques and quality local ingredients starting with a variety of wheat harvested from Tamazulapam del Progreso in la Mixteca region in Oaxaca A standout example is a crunchy yet soft spandauer topped with an explosive combination of tropical fruits like mango and passion fruit Most of the breads are large enough to share which are perfect for enjoying with an espresso For a more casual breakfast or early lunch PlayUnmuteTlayudas Doña Flavia Calle Pensamientos 418 Oaxaca Reforma Tlayuderías are in almost every neighborhood in Oaxaca but Doña Flavia stands out since they serve a wider universe of grilled proteins you can sit comfortably in the two-story space decorated with colorful murals while enjoying the enticing aroma of charcoal and grilled meats—which is part of the street cred in these types of establishments Tlayudas with tasajo are the classic option but we recommend the version filled with chapulines like chepiche for lemony cilantro-like notes Load them up with one of their salsas of varying levels of spiciness and then wash it down with a glass of horchata Walk up to the counter of La Cocina de Humo and sauces come off the wood-fired comal in the open kitchen intimate Oaxacan restaurant changes constantly since all the ingredients come from the chef’s hometown of San Mateo Yucutindoo and feature traditional Oaxacan flavors touched by smoke get the yellow mole with milpa green beans and ranch chicken plus you’ll likely learn a bit about Oaxacan tradition and culture while you’re here Levadura de Olla Calle de Manuel García Vigil 304 Centro Levadura de Olla opens two windows into the food from la Sierra Sur in the southern highlands of Oaxaca The classic path leads to dishes cooked observing regional tradition The more modern-creative side highlights ingredient quality—exemplified by native tomatoes served almost untouched and seasoned with a fruit vinaigrette—and broadens the range and textures of Oaxacan food So expect to see sweet guava mole served with shrimp and weathered cauliflower and standout pork ribs accompanied by bean sauce and pickled vegetables This place also has a great selection of mezcal but don’t overlook the non-alcoholic beverages such as agua de maíz made with toasted and ground corn PlayUnmute Boulenc El Fortincito Calle de Matías Pérez Marcos Hervás and the dining room may have a somewhat kitsch vibe with touches of Beatlemania but it’s an excellent spot to get acquainted with lesser-known varieties of mole like verde de espinazo with a lighter consistency made with pork backbone and vegetables like squash and enhanced by the distinct flavor of herbs like yerba santa You’ll also find specialties typically served in Oaxacan households during the week such as sopa de guías—a rich and hearty soup made with squash vines and chochoyotes (small balls of masa) so we don’t advise you come here for a solo feast PlayUnmute El Lechoncito De Oro Tacos There’s usually a line at El Lechoncito de Oro a street vendor renowned for mastering the art of slow-cooked suckling pig Always go torta since the bread absorbs part of the fat of the meat and you can (and should) ask for it with crunchy bites of chicharrón make sure to add a spoonful of green salsa to take your palate for a ride It’s made with avocado and has just the right level of spice to straighten your bar-hopping night downtown without being overwhelmingly hot (if you have a low tolerance for spiciness They have a few plastic benches for sitting making it a perfect stop after mezcal tasting PlayUnmuteLa Teca Istmeña La Teca has been around for over 30 years under the dedicated care of Deyanira Aquino Pineda (also known as La Teca) and the reason is simple: They’re pumping out traditional dishes from el Istmo de Tehuantepec a narrow region between Oaxaca and Veracruz fried corn disks topped with shredded meat and pickled cabbage that cut through the rich flavors soft and fluffy plantain croquettes accompanied by sour cream and creamy-salty costeño cheese Sweet and savory is characteristic of istmeño cooking and you’ll see it in the tamalitos de cambray filled with chicken PlayUnmuteMemelas Doña Vale Cosijoeza she’s been preparing the same thing at her stand: a simple meal of memelas to which she spreads a little lard Get one for breakfast that’s bathed in her famous chile morita or tomatillo sauces Zandunga Mesa Temporal Calle Benito Juárez 907 Coatzacoalcos A dining experience at Mesa Temporal is educational This experimental food space was founded by an architect and curator who transitioned into food design dishes serve as a medium to showcase his commitment to researching and reviving regional Oaxacan recipes through thematic dinners you might find yourself immersed in a walking dinner smelling and tasting local ingredients in different rooms like in an art gallery or having an intimate sit-down dinner under a flamboyant tree over new recipes an ashy mix made with corn cobs and served with pickled pumpkin stems With enough planning (they’re reservation-only) they might even create a menu based on your memories for a birthday or anniversary Masea Trigo Y Maíz Sabina Sabe Mexican A good Mexican dish usually has some blend of sour Most of Sabina Sabe’s cocktails use all three in a balanced way while using mezcal and other Mexican spirits like charanda and tequila Grab a stool at the bar and order the Micky Miguel Miguelito a cocktail made with mezcal distilled with tamarind it’s a great choice for a night out with two or three friends Selva Bar The main room of this cocktail bar feels like your coolest friend’s house-warming party where everybody’s sitting on leather sofas the lighting from the hanging lamps is just dim enough and the tropical paintings on the wall were probably a gift from an up-and-coming artist pal The mood matches their cocktails perfectly which are served in crystal glasses and feature spirits like charanda and sotol and Mexican herbs and roots Order the Calmante made with manzanilla-infused mezcal Even though you can get something with vodka stick with the drinks that highlight Mexican spirits to really get the full experience PlayUnmuteOrigen Almú San Martin de Tilcajete Almú is located in the fields of San Martín Tilcajete The Oaxacan restaurant with an open-air kitchen is the ideal setting to begin or end a visit to one of the town’s many alebrije workshops where you can see and learn about the traditional hand-carved wooden sculptures painted with natural dyes and tortillas stuffed with chicken and bathed in black mole—come in generous portions that can (and should) be shared and think about seriously getting into woodworking Portozuelo La Raya Portozuelo is the countryside version of the restaurant and hotel group Casa Oaxaca is situated in the middle of a small farm and orchard where they cultivate herbs like epazote and yerba santa You’ll sit in a covered patio in front of the fields and peacefully enjoy masa specialties from the comal and large quesadillas packed with quesillo and flor de calabaza (be sure to open them up to let steam out before the first bite) This is also where to try Oaxacan barbacoa a dish involving a lengthy overnight preparation process and Alfonsina Calle García vigil 138 San Juan Bautista la Raya San Juan Bautista la Raya San Juan Bautista La Raya Reducing the negative impact a restaurant can have while serving delicious nutritious food has become Alfonsina’s motto That’s why the five-course prix fixe dinner focuses on seasonal vegetables and grains sourced from small producers throughout the state The dishes are prepared slowly using techniques of the founders’ family heritage and the finest handmade tortillas to enjoy in a taco or alongside the mains The result translates into straightforward followed by a curated selection of natural wines or mezcales We like this place since it helps us slow down disconnect from the at times overstimulating pace of the city or say our Oaxaca goodbyes before heading to the airport La Cocina De Frida Ocotlán de Morelos Ocotlán de Morelos Central Oaxacan Ocotlán de Morelos Life changing tacos, fancy tasting menus, and everything else you need to eat and drink in Mexico City. Al pastor, barbacoa, and more tacos you need to eat in CDMX. Our favorite spots for a post-surf shrimp taco, a night of mezcal margaritas, and a cinnamon roll for the morning after. Beautiful beaches and all the tacos, mezcal, and ceviche you could ever want. Thunderstorms and lightning were also reported and 2 people died in lightning strikes in Ocotlán de Morelos municipality Mexico’s National Meteorological Service reported that over 440 mm of rain fell in Jacatepec Oaxaca in a 48 hour period to 16 June 2021 State Civil Protection said several rivers have broken their banks including the Mala river in the municipality of San Juan Guichicovi and the Los Perros river in the city of Ixtepec Levels of the the Los Perros river jumped over 3 metres in the space of a few hours At least 50 families have evacuated their homes as a result Landslide and flooding has blocked numerous roads in the state. Local media reported that as many as 30 communities were cut off in different areas of the state Heavy rain also reported in other areas of southern Mexico which saw 273.5 mm of rain in 24 hours to 16 June #Istmo se reporta el desbordamiento del río Mala tengo en el municipio de San Juan Guichicovi, zona norte de la región del istmo. pic.twitter.com/YlWqo8W573 — ProtecciónCivilOax (@CEPCO_GobOax) June 16, 2021 Elementos de la @PABIC_GobOax apoyan a las familias que se vieron afectadas debido a las fuertes lluvias registradas en el municipio de Juchitán de Zaragoza Mantenemos activo el #PlanEstatalDeAuxilioALaPoblación en la región de Istmo de Tehuantepec. #LaSSPOContigo #Oaxaca pic.twitter.com/X6qmFDOWuM — Sría. Seg. Púb. Oax. (@SSP_GobOax) June 17, 2021 — Bomberos Oaxaca (@Bomberos_GobOax) June 17, 2021 En apoyo a las familias afectadas por las lluvias registradas en el Istmo, en la quinta, octava y novena sección de Juchitán de Zaragoza personal de las corporaciones activaron el #PlanEstatalDeAuxilioALaPoblación Trabajamos por el bienestar y seguridad de la ciudadanía. pic.twitter.com/UmvY2JRQUU — Sría. Seg. Púb. Oax. (@SSP_GobOax) June 17, 2021 Video: Roselia Chaca pic.twitter.com/GqHIyrMiER — Bersaín Hernández (@Bersa76) June 17, 2021 Breaking News Mexico Richard Davies is the founder of floodlist.com and reports on flooding news Nepal – 5 Dead, 19 Missing After Floods and Landslides in 26 Districts Crimea – Over 1,300 Evacuated After Severe Flooding Cookies | Privacy | Contacts © Copyright 2025 FloodList Margarito Melchor and Maria Teresa Santiago “Black Cat with White and Purple Stripes,” 1987 The Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block has received a collection of Mexican folk art expanding its existing Folk Art of the Americas collection The collection from Vicki Ragan and Shepard Barbash will add more than 1,210 individual works including wooden carvings made by artists working mostly in the villages of San Martín Tilcajete and clay sculptures mostly made by the Aguilar family in Ocotlán de Morelos Pieces from the Ragan/Barbash gift will be on display this fall visitors will be able to easily connect to a unique aesthetic and better understand other cultures people and context,” said TMA chief executive officer Jeremy Mikolajczak the Ragan/Barbash gift will significantly impact TMA’s ability to represent the artists of the Oaxacan region TMA’s Folk Art of the Americas collection contains nearly 3,000 objects from South spent three years in Mexico collecting and documenting the work of woodcarvers and clay sculptors Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community This is the second largest donation TMA has ever received The gift is the largest individual donation in the museum’s 94-year history They say the neon lights are bright at 331 S founded by University of Arizona alumna Shelly Hawkins is set to premiere its first self-produced show Photo dealer expert Terry Etherton could move anywhere but he chose Tucson Eleven of 24 events next season have never been to Tucson Hanson remains committed to the 2020 Tucson Desert Song Festival will learn about poetry and have the opportunity to be recorded.… tears and tenderness fill the stage when four women Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán exports silver and gold concentrates mainly to South Korea and Germany from its “green” mine in San José del Progreso the sixth largest silver producer in Mexico and located in the state of Oaxaca Cristina Rodríguez, deputy director of Sustainability of the company, qualifies it as green for several reasons, the first of which is because Fortuna Silver initially determined that it was underground but also with more environmental benefits compared to the option of going under the open sky the mine comes to have a greenish landscape in its surroundings because it is located less than five minutes from San José del Progreso coexisting with the community in a way comparable to what that it would be an industrial plant on the outskirts of a city there is a certain balance in the aquifers that reflects two environmental actions of Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán: the operation of a water treatment plant and the reuse of this vital liquid in the mine facilities “It’s as if the company won a silver medal,” is proud Rodríguez referring to the fact that the mine is predominantly a silver producer (7.9 million ounces in 2019) with secondary extractions such as the gold itself water comes from two main sources: the collection of rainwater and the recovery of up to 96% of the water that enters its mining process In turn, Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán is supplied with water from the sewage treatment plant in the Ocotlán de Morelos thanks to an agreement with the municipality of the same name almost 8% of the water needed for the San José mine The rest of its needs (82%) are covered with a closed water circuit so it does not discharge effluents thanks to reuse Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán operates and maintains the treatment plant on loan and water is also used from it for irrigation of public gardens and for other uses in the municipality Taking care of water has a reason in the context: the Central Valleys of Oaxaca to satisfy the industrial water needs of the San José mining complex without competing with the surrounding communities Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán made the decision to capture treat and reuse the wastewater discarded by the municipality of Ocotlán de Morelos also have a sustainable cycle of water use with zero discharge «The reuse of water is possible because we do not use chemical toxic or dangerous substances in our processes that allows us to use water over and over again,» says Rodríguez Of all the water that reaches the mining facility by evaporation or contained in the minerals or tailings (they are not completely dry because otherwise they would fly as microparticles) Although the use of cyanide is governed by safety procedures and international standards Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán does not use this substance to separate the minerals; It does so through a safe and environmentally friendly flotation process Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán is carrying out a reforestation program that includes planting 13,500 native species from the Central Valleys of Oaxaca Cold climate trees such as casuarina and shade trees such as junipers framboyans and tulips from India stand out because the law also requires it to do so; but it has taken special care of the fauna beyond the legislation” The wildlife there is made up of plain animals such as rabbits as well as species typical of this type of environment such as thrushes Compañía Minera Cuzcatlán started production at the San José mining complex in September 2011 and at the end of 2018 had produced 35.9 million ounces of silver and 269,000 ounces of gold The mining method applied in the exploitation of the veins is cutting and filling with a mechanized extraction methodology The mine’s production capacity has been increased twice; in September 2013 it was increased to 1,800 tons per day and the production capacity increased to 3,000 tons per day allowing a daily production of approximately 80 tons of silver and concentrates a third stage filtered dry-pile tailings facility was commissioned on time and on budget with increased filtered tailings capacity to handle 1.5 years of production with more expansions planned for 2019 and 2020 that would be sufficient to store all tailings for the currently defined life of mine plan The mining operation has been developed in strict compliance with the regulations and permits required by government agencies involved in the mining sector all the work follows the international quality and safety standards established in the ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18000 standards Rodríguez is an environmental engineer. She argues that mining serves the development of humanity and the ideal is to seek to avoid or minimize the impact it generates on the environment She is simply satisfied: “Ever since one studies this career Redacción: 7224059128info@opportimes.com Indigenous Náhuatl land defender and radio producer Samir Flores Soberanes was shot to death early Wednesday morning in the community of Amilcingo in the state of Morelos Flores was an outspoken opponent of a thermal-electric plant and gas pipeline that form part of the Integral Project for Morelos originally proposed in 2010 but recently promoted by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador as a way to improve the region’s energy independence Residents of Magdalena Ocotlán take water samples The People’s Front in Defense of the Land and Water for the states of Morelos, Puebla and Tlaxcala (FPDTA) said in a statement that Flores died after being shot twice in the head by unknown assailants who helped to found the Community Radio Amiltzinko 100.7 FM had no enemies other than the promoters of the mega-development project which includes a thermoelectric plant in Huexca as well as an aqueduct and a gas pipeline whose operation would affect over 60 farming communities in the Popocatépetl Volcano region “This is a political crime for the human rights defense that Samir and the FPDTA carried out against the [project] and for people’s autonomy and self-determination,” the statement said Flores’s murder takes place just three days before a controversial referendum on the project to be carried out in the states of Morelos So far seven communities have filed legal injunctions against the referendum which they say violates their right to free prior and informed consent as Indigenous peoples “This should be an Indigenous referendum and it should be conducted one by one” with affected communities Opponents of the project say that just a day earlier Flores and others participated in an informative forum with López Obrador’s delegate in Morelos during which they “questioned the lies that are being told about the thermoelectric plant in Huexca and the Integral Project for Morelos.” While López Obrador denounced the assassination as “horrendous,” he said plans for the referendum would remain on track since affected communities had already been informed declared publicly that the murder had nothing to do with the thermal-electric project and that investigators were exploring links to organized crime along with other community groups and civil society organizations say the Integral Plan for Morelos would contaminate water supplies and increase the risk for communities in a volcanic zone They are demanding a full investigation of Flores’s assassination as well punishment for the material and intellectual authors of the crime and protection for members of the FPDTA and other opponents of the megaproject Flores’s death adds to a growing list of environmental activists Indigenous land defenders and journalists that have been assassinated this year in Mexico Mexican activist shot dead before vote on pipeline he opposed (David Agren Mexico: Indigenous Land Defender, Samir Flores Soberanes, Assassinated (It’s Going Down) Ecotourism is a form of travel that focuses on minimizing environmental impact and maximizing benefits for local communities and nature conservation This approach seeks to reduce the ecological footprint of travel by choosing sustainable options activities that respect the natural environment and support for local initiatives that promote conservation and sustainable development Mexico has many destinations ideal for ecotourism thanks to its bountiful nature Here are some of the best places in Mexico if you want to travel sustainably: Chiapas is a treasure trove of biodiversity and Cascadas de Roberto Barrios offer spectacular waterfalls surrounded by vegetation Culture: Chiapas is home to vibrant indigenous cultures, where ancestral traditions intertwine with daily life. Travelers can visit the villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, where they will witness ancient religious practices and traditional crafts. Palenque with its huge temples and palaces surrounded by jungle is one of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological sites Other sites like Bonampak and Yaxchilán offer the opportunity to explore remote ruins amidst nature Hotel Chan-Kah Resort Village: Located in Palenque offering comfortable and environmentally friendly rooms They also offer jungle excursions to explore the local flora and fauna Eco Hotel Maya Tulipanes: Located in the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve the rooms are built in harmony with the environment and offer stunning jungle views Ecolodge Las Nubes: In the community of Tziscao Its rustic cabins overlook the lake and the surrounding mountains The hotel is committed to conserving the natural environment and offers activities such as boat rides Located on the Pacific coast Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most iconic states it offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore eco-consciously Nature: On the coast, places like Puerto Escondido and Mazunte offer pristine beaches and opportunities for surfing the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca is a paradise for travelers interested in exploring fog forests and indigenous communities that preserve ancestral traditions and the ecological community of Benito Juárez offer unique natural experiences Culture: In cities like Oaxaca de Juárez and Ocotlán de Morelos, travelers can explore colorful markets where local products such as textiles Ancient Zapotec and Mixtec ruins are another major attraction; sites like Monte Albán and Yagul offer the opportunity to explore the region’s archaeological legacy and learn about the indigenous cultures that flourished here centuries ago Celeste del Mar: Located in Mazunte this eco-hotel offers peace and relaxation experience by the sea The rooms are built with local and environmentally friendly materials and the hotel has a restaurant serving organic and seasonal food Mixtli Ecohouse Zipolite: Located on Zipolite beach these eco-friendly cabins offer simple and comfortable accommodation in harmony with nature The hotel also promotes sustainable practices such as using renewable energy and water conservation Santa Catarina Lachatao: Located in the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca this eco-lodge offers a unique chance to commune with nature The cabins are built with panoramic views of the mountains and craft workshops with the local community it is known for its stunning white sand beaches beyond its popular tourist destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen Quintana Roo also offers a variety of opportunities for eco-conscious tourism where travelers can enjoy the natural beauty of the region responsibly and sustainably Nature: Quintana Roo is home to a great marine biodiversity, with coral reefs, mangroves, and protected areas that are home to a variety of marine species. One of the main destinations for eco-conscious tourism is the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a vast and pristine ecosystem that includes jungles visitors can participate in guided tours to observe birds and manatees The beaches of Quintana Roo are an important nesting site for sea turtles including species such as the green turtle and the loggerhead turtle Several local organizations work on conserving these species and offering volunteer programs for travelers interested in contributing Eco-tourism in Marine Reserves: Places like the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve and the Xcalak Reef National Park are popular destinations for diving and snorkeling where visitors can explore coral reefs and observe an incredible variety of marine life Azulik: Located in Tulum this eco-luxury wellness retreat combines unique architecture with a focus on sustainability and well-being The resort is built in harmony with nature and offers villas and cabins with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea They promote environmental conservation and offer unique experiences such as dinners under the stars and natural spa treatments Hotel Esencia: This boutique hotel is located in Xpu-Ha Esencia offers a luxury experience alongside a respect for nature The hotel is surrounded by tropical gardens and pristine beaches and offers comfortable rooms with sea or garden views Hotel Cielo y Selva: Located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve this glamping offers a unique chance to get up close with the wild side of Mexico Their tents are built with natural materials and equipped with modern amenities The camp promotes environmental conservation and offers hiking Located at the southern end of the Baja California Peninsula it is an iconic destination offering a unique combination of natural beauty and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for eco-conscious tourism where travelers can enjoy nature responsibly and contribute to its conservation Nature: This is one of the world’s best destinations for marine life. Places like the Upper Gulf of California, Colorado River Delta Biosphere Reserve, and the Revillagigedo Archipelago Biosphere Reserve offer unique opportunities to observe whales and other marine species in their natural habitat Regional tour operators are committed to sustainable wildlife-watching practices that protect animals and their environments Baja California Sur boasts a wealth of pristine beaches and protected areas that offer opportunities for eco-conscious tourism. Places like Cabo Pulmo a marine reserve that hosts the oldest coral reef in North America a paradise of deserted beaches and crystal-clear waters visitors can enjoy activities such as diving and hiking while contributing to environmental conservation Culture: Towns like Loreto, Todos Santos and La Paz offer the opportunity to explore local culture Many local communities are involved in tourism initiatives promoting sustainable development and preserving local culture and heritage White Lodge Baja: Located in Los Cabos this eco-luxury wellness retreat features an on-site spa and 10 private cottages built in total harmony with nature It’s 45 minutes from the Historic Center of San Jose del Cabo Hotel Baja Club: This historic mansion-turned-hotel in La Paz is now one of the most luxurious properties in La Paz is a fervent advocate of sustainable architecture his team rescued original timber beams and restored as much of the original materials as possible to create this beautiful hotel The property’s onsite Greek restaurant also serves sustainable seafood Camp Cecil de la Sierra: In the quiet town of Todos Santos this luxury tent camp offers glamping on a local ranch in the Sierra Laguna Mountains and organized tours around the local reserve Traveling responsibly in Mexico is possible in protected areas where eco-tourism is ingrained in local policy and culture and everywhere we go we have the opportunity — and obligation — to ensure our impact is positive in our destinations This is especially important when visiting places not officially designated as protected Camila Sánchez Bolaño is a journalist and cultural promoter and is Editor in Chief of Newsweek en Español magazine Guelaguetza is one of the world’s most fascinating festivals and takes place every July in Oaxaca, Mexico. 2025’s dates: July 21 and 28 // La Guelaguetza es uno de los festivales más fascinantes del mundo y se lleva a cabo cada mes de julio en Oaxaca Key Linksoaxaca.gob.mx facebook.com/guelaguetzaoficial YouTube La Octava Matutina, 22 de Julio Inauguración Introducing the GuelaguetzaSome of the most colorful celebrations in the Americas take place in the southeastern corner of Mexico Since 1932 the city of Oaxaca de Juárez and rural communities have inspired locals and visitors alike with a spectacular display of Indigenous cultures The Guelaguetza is Mexico’s premier celebration of music and dance with roots that date back to ancient times and in a more polished sense since 1932 Also known as Lunes del Cerro (“Mondays of the Hill”) this is the largest folklore festival in the Americas The state-sponsored Guelaguetza takes place at the auditorium on Fortin Hill Smaller Guelaguetzas are held in towns in the Central Valleys San Antonino Castillo Velasco (near Ocotlán de Morelos) The festival links Indigenous traditions with the Catholic faith and occurs on the two Mondays following July 16th, the Day of Saint Carmen, except when July 18 falls on a Monday, because that date is reserved for the solemn commemoration of the death of President Benito Juárez in 1872 In that instance Guelaguetza is celebrated on the last Monday of July and the first Monday in August The roots of this festival honor Indigenous deities, particularly Centéotl, the Zapotec and Miztec goddess of corn The Sunday before the event begins a young woman is chosen to represent Centéotl She is chosen on the basis of how well she represents her community In one translation, the word “Guelaguetza” corresponds to paying off social debts. The term Guelaguetza derives from the Zapotec term “guendalezaa” which means “offering The term was used during colonial times as the prerogative of the Spanish elite to receive the first and best of the harvest collected by the Indigenous people At its center is an exchange of products and services an age-old tradition of “paying it forward.” Gifts are cataloged and repaid at other guelaguetzas. This tradition is voluntary, contrasting with the “tequio,” obligatory communal work which also plays an important role in social relations Of special interest is the translation of Guelaguetza in Teotitlán del Valle According to Zeferino Clemente Mendoza Bautista it means the Tortilla from the Zapotec farm (Tortilla de Milpa Zapoteca) Guela… Family farm (milpa)Guet……TortillaZaa…….Clouds (nubes) (an allusion to the Zapotec people) Flying PineapplesDances range from solemn to raucous expressions of local culture each delegation presents their own symbolic act of guelaguetza to the audience by throwing small fruit The audience stays alert to catch the gifts and to avoid getting hit by projectiles While the formal dances occur only two days each year the entire month of July is filled with folk art and gastronomic exhibitions There are numerous festivals on July 16 – the Day of Saint Carmen – as well as a convite 9 days earlier on July 7 Other related events in Oaxaca City include an eye-popping sale of regional folk art and theatrical events including Donají Pedestrian-friendly Alcalá Street becomes dancer-friendly on late Saturday afternoons (before the Monday Guelaguetza) The celebration begins with Oaxaca’s famous Calendas a colorful parade of participating delegations and led with giant papier mache figures Oaxaca, Mexico – Guelaguetza is one of the world’s most important festivals Because of the continuing social conflict in Oaxaca, reservations to Oaxaca have dropped, but the show is going on. We’ll keep track of this year’s event and add a link to the live video via Cortv — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfJ6m-slb0w Look for the fireworks at the conclusion of the afternoon/early evening program Background: Ask locals what ‘Guelaguetza’ means to them and there are a variety of answers In Oaxaca everything has more than one name and anything that has one name usually has more than one meaning Since 1932 the city of Oaxaca de Juárez and neighboring villages have put on a show of Indigenous cultures that inspire locals and visitors alike The Guelaguetza is one of Mexico’s premier celebrations of dance and music and has roots that date back to ancient times and in the “dance” genre since 1932 Also known as Lunes del Cerro (“Mondays of the Hill”) The state-sponsored Guelaguetza takes place at the auditorium on Fortin Hill Questions: How many people are in the auditorium Follow Retweets 11 like How many people are watching the live video = ¿Cuántas personas están viendo el video en vivo?Is there English-language commentary or translations (transcripts) online =¿Hay comentarios en idioma Inglés o traducciones (transcripciones) en línea?Is the program online = ¿Hay alguien tuiteando en vivo la Guelaguetza On our wishlist: a directory of artisans participating in the Guelaguetza folkart expos. It would be easier to promote the work of these vendors if we knew who was selling what where. For insider tips, keep an eye on the Facebook Group: Mercados de Oaxaca View image on Twitter Follow Sí habrá #Guelaguetza, reafirma Styde http://ow.ly/BuVM301WmvS 88 Retweets 33 likes View image on Twitter Follow Retweets likes View image on Twitter Follow Grupo Fórmula ✔@Radio_Formula Conflicto magisterial genera cancelaciones durante la Guelaguetza en Oaxaca: empresarios http://bit.ly/28Wnu5A 77 Retweets 55 likes View image on Twitter Follow Pérdidas por cancelaciones van en 120 mdp; Guelaguetza sigue en pie: Turismo.// http://goo.gl/pLL6kJ // Retweets likes View image on Twitter Follow 44 Retweets 55 likes