The Guelaguetza
Date: Second half of July

This holiday honours a legend that tells the story of Huayxacac, where a teocalli (sacrificial pile) was discovered. The legend tells of a maiden who was to be sacrificed in honour of the goddess Centeotl. Soon after, this Pre-Hispanic holiday was christianised and became "Lunes del Cerro" [Monday of the Hill]. Later on, it came to be known as Guelaguetza, a festivity where natives got together to enjoy themselves dancing and exchanging gifts of products from the previous day’s festivities.

Ermita de la Santa Veracruz de los Carmelitas Descalzos was built over 300 years ago, in 1696, where the temple of goddess Centeotl once stood. A place where the native lords organised great feasts. Currently, the celebration of two consecutive "Lunes del Cerro", on Fortin Hill, is presented in a magnificent theatre, and has become the most beautiful, important and spectacular indigenous festivities in all of Mexico. The festivities, held on the last two Mondays of July, attract folklore groups from all over the State, offering an exhibition of native music and dance.

Since 1951, these festivities have been known as "Guelaguetza", and each regional delegation arrives with gifts. These gifts of traditional products include fruit, beverages and flowers, in addition to their dance and music. They have become a tradition, receiving the name "Guelaguetza", a perfect description for the holiday known as "Lunes del Cerro".

All these regional dances date from 1932. These performances are now given in an auditorium, on Fortin Hill. The structure is reminiscent of ancient Greek and Roman theatres. It was once an open-air stage, known as "Rotonda de la Azucena", and the original site of Guelaguetza festivities.

These festivities have evolved from being simply a spontaneous show to a great attraction for visitors to Oaxaca City. The audience delights in the great diversity of music and dance offered by each and every region, and the richness and colourfulness of their traditional attire. It is important, to mention that this attire has changed with time. Fabrics have gone from natural to synthetic, the original designs have changed, and some modifications have been made to the original music and choreography.

Since 1968, each delegation has presented a candidate to the title of "Centeotl Goddess", in commemoration of maidens sacrificed to appease the gods. The winner is crowned during a public ceremony, becoming the hostess of scheduled activities.

Source: Oaxaca-Travel.com