According to tradition, the Guelaguetza was born long before stages and crowds. At the summit of Cerro del Fortín, the ancient Zapotec peoples offered dances, flowers, and food to give thanks to the earth for its abundance. Sharing was their way of honoring life. Centuries later, that same spirit continues to bring together thousands of people who discover that Oaxaca offers far more than a festival—it offers a way of understanding the world.

Today officially marks the beginning of Guelaguetza Month, a time when Oaxaca City transforms itself to host one of Mexico's most important cultural celebrations. Throughout July, the streets come alive with music, calendas, convites, artisan markets, traditional cuisine, and cultural gatherings leading up to the iconic Lunes del Cerro celebrations, taking place on July 20 and 27, with two performances each day. During these events, delegations from Oaxaca's eight regions share their traditional dances, music, and customs at the Guelaguetza Auditorium.

Yet the true essence of this celebration begins long before the curtain rises. It can be found in the sound of brass bands filling the Historic Center, in huipiles patiently woven by hand, in the aroma of freshly prepared mole, in the refreshing tejate enjoyed on warm summer afternoons, and in the mezcal that accompanies every celebration. Every corner of Oaxaca seems to remind visitors that the word guelaguetza means to offer, to share, and to reciprocate.

This month's program features more than one hundred cultural, artistic, and gastronomic events, transforming the city into one expansive open-air stage and offering countless reasons to visit this remarkable destination. Whether it is your first trip or your second, July and the Guelaguetza will always reveal a different side of Oaxaca—a place where traditions are not simply preserved, but walked, danced, and experienced by everyone willing to be amazed.

Here are a few experiences you won't want to miss:

Lunes del Cerro. The festival's signature event, is where delegations from Oaxaca's eight regions present traditional dances, music, and vibrant regional attire at the Guelaguetza Auditorium. At the end of each performance, the performers throw gifts into the audience—including fruit, bread, coffee, mezcal, and handicrafts—in a symbolic gesture of generosity and sharing.

Convites and Calendas. Festive parades through the streets of Oaxaca City featuring brass bands, giant papier-mâché puppets known as marmotas, the iconic monos de calenda, and dancing delegations. These free events offer one of the best ways to experience the joyful spirit of the celebration.

Donají... The Legend. A spectacular nighttime dance and theatrical performance inspired by a Zapotec legend, featuring hundreds of performers. Many visitors consider it every bit as memorable as the Guelaguetza itself.

The Mezcal Fair (July 17–28). Brings together mezcal producers from across the state; the fair offers tastings alongside traditional cuisine, live music, and local handicrafts. It is an excellent opportunity to discover small family-run mezcal distilleries without leaving the city.

To purchase tickets and view the full program, visit: guelaguetza.oaxaca.gob.mx