Mexico is a country known for the immense wealth of traditions, culture, and cuisine that surround us. Some states stand out more than others, as they have taken it upon themselves to keep all these traditions and customs alive.
Oaxaca is not only one of the states with the most tourism in the country, it is also home to one of the largest festivals in Mexican culture: Guelaguetza. If you want to learn about and enjoy this enormous celebration, here’s when Guelaguetza 2025 is.
What is Guelaguetza?
Guelaguetza is the most important cultural celebration in the state of Oaxaca, and one of the most emblematic in Mexico. Its name comes from the Zapotec “guendalezaa,” which means “offering” or “reciprocal cooperation.” This word captures the spirit of the festival: sharing, giving without expecting anything in return, and celebrating the cultural diversity of the state’s eight regions.
The importance of the Guelaguetza lies in its communal nature and its role as a showcase for the traditions, cuisine, music, and ancestral dances of Oaxaca. Over time, the festival has transformed into an international event that attracts thousands of tourists, both domestic and international.
The Guelaguetza is also known as “Los Lunes del Cerro” (Mondays of the Hill) because the main performances take place on two consecutive Mondays in July on Fortín Hill. It is a living example of how indigenous communities have preserved and projected their cultural identity.
The 2025 Guelaguetza will take place on Monday, July 21 and Monday, July 28, as is traditional, in the Guelaguetza Auditorium, located atop Fortín Hill, in the city of Oaxaca de Juárez. These days mark the climax of the month of July, known as the “month of the Guelaguetza.”
During these two dates, two performances are held per day: one in the morning (usually at 10:00 a.m.) and one in the afternoon (at 5:00 p.m.). In each performance, delegations from different regions of Oaxaca perform traditional dances that represent their customs, history, and spirituality.
In addition to the main event in the auditorium, other complementary cultural activities take place throughout July:
It is important to purchase tickets in advance, as access to the auditorium is limited. Some seats are free, but they are distributed at specific locations and at specific times.
What’s on at Guelaguetza?
One of the biggest attractions of Guelaguetza is the participation of Oaxaca’s eight cultural regions: the Central Valleys, the Northern Sierra, the Southern Sierra, the Coast, the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, the Cañada, the Mixteca, and the Papaloapan. Each region contributes a unique cultural richness.
The delegations representing these regions are selected months in advance. Each group prepares traditional choreographies that have been passed down for generations. Some of the most iconic dances include:
The Feather Dance (Central Valleys): represents the Spanish conquest from the Zapotec perspective.
Piña Flower (Tuxtepec, Papaloapan): women in colorful costumes dance with pineapples on their shoulders.
Mixes Sones and Jarabes (Northern Highlands): ritual dances accompanied by traditional music.
Isthmus Sones (Isthmus of Tehuantepec): joyful choreographies accompanied by marimba music.
Each performance culminates with the “Guelaguetza,” in which dancers throw typical regional products such as bread, mezcal, fruit, or handicrafts to the audience.
Clothing also plays a fundamental role; the traditional costumes of each region are carefully crafted and reflect the ethnic, religious, and social identity of the Oaxacan people.
How to enjoy Guelaguetza?
If you plan to attend Guelaguetza 2025, it’s recommended that you keep in mind some logistical and planning tips:
Book accommodations in advance: July is peak season in Oaxaca. Hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs tend to fill up months in advance. Choose accommodations in the historic center if you want to be close to the cultural events and the Guelaguetza Auditorium. If you’re looking for something quieter, consider more remote areas.
Buy official tickets: Tickets for performances at the Guelaguetza Auditorium are sold online and at authorized locations. There are four types of tickets: Section A, Section B (both with a fee), and two free sections (C and D). Free tickets are distributed early the same day.
Arrive early and use public transportation or taxi: During the Mondays of the Hill, vehicle access to Cerro del Fortín is restricted. It’s best to use public transportation, taxis, or walk from the city center. Special buses are also available to take you up to the auditorium.
Be prepared for the weather: July is the rainy season, so it’s recommended to bring a raincoat, a hat or cap, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
Explore beyond the main event: don’t limit yourself to the Guelaguetza Auditorium. Visit markets like the 20 de Noviembre market and the Benito Juárez Market, and participate in craft and food fairs. You can also take the opportunity to explore nearby sites like Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, or Mitla.
Guelaguetza 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration, filled with color, music, tradition, and the warmth that distinguishes Oaxaca. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor, this festival is a vivid window into Mexico’s roots and a unique opportunity to experience its cultural diversity at its finest.
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Source: excelsior
