¡Viva la Guelaguetza! The lively festivities of a traditional Mexican indigenous holiday come alive in the Garden. Celebrate Oaxacan culture through music, dance, art, food, and more.

Guelaguetza is a celebration of Oaxaca’s indigenous cultures. It originates from a Zapotec word that roughly translates to “reciprocal exchange of gifts and services.”

Guelaguetza is a tradition that was started by the Zapotecs more than 500 years ago when they created a yearly gathering centered around the worship of their corn goddess. They desired to bring different groups together to share their customs with one another.

Today the Guelaguetza brings communities from the eight regions of Oaxaca together to share their varying traditions of music, dance, art, and food.