Christmas in Oaxaca

One of the reasons we chose to come to Oaxaca at Christmas is the unique festivals that take place in this small city in the mountains of southwest Mexico.  Most notably the annual Noche de Rabanos, orNight of the Radishes on December 23rd. This is a radish carving contest that’s been happening for more than 120 years. Artisans create dioramas out of giant radishes and everyone in town goes down to see them in the zocalo. This year there are over 100 entries on display and people line up for hours to cruise along an elevated walkway past the displays. Here’s a photo of this year’s winner—a giant octopus.

The following night was Christmas Eve and again we headed down to the zocalo. This time for the Christmas celebrations. Featuring floats, dancers and musicians from each of the different parishes in the city. 

Eventually they all converged at the zocalo where some bands set up with marimbas, others with trumpets and other brass instruments. Families wandered around with balloons and sparklers, some visiting the multiple Santas in sleighs to get their photos taken. Others heading up the stairs to the bandstand decorated with lights. We stat at a table under the portales eating tortes and drinking margaritas. The various dancers and puppets and papier-mâché lanterns paraded around the edge. It was a wonderful celebration.