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 OAXACA LIGHTS UP WITH GUELAGUETZA 2025: A FESTIVAL OF TRADITION AND UNITY

The Guelaguetza 2025, one of Mexico’s most iconic cultural festivals, is drawing international attention to Oaxaca as it celebrates the rich traditions, music, cuisine and dance of the state’s eight diverse regions.

Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, Mexico’s secretary of tourism, attended the first Lunes del Cerro (Monday on the Hill) and praised the Guelaguetza as a cultural powerhouse that strengthens both national pride and the tourism economy.

“This is Mexico’s premier celebration—full of color, joy and tradition. It represents who we are as a nation,” Rodríguez Zamora said. “Oaxaca is a cultural melting pot, and Guelaguetza is our opportunity to share that with the world.”

According to state officials, the 2025 festival is expected to attract more than 138,000 visitors, with hotel occupancy projected to reach 83%. The economic impact is estimated to exceed 614 million pesos, benefiting more than 181,000 people working in the tourism sector.

The Guelaguetza, celebrated annually in Oaxaca, highlights Indigenous traditions through music, dance, vibrant costumes, and traditional foods and beverages. The word “Guelaguetza” comes from the Zapotec language and means “reciprocal exchange of gifts and services,” reflecting the community spirit and cultural reciprocity at the heart of the event.

The main celebrations take place at the Guelaguetza Auditorium on Cerro del Fortín in Oaxaca City, with additional events held in surrounding towns. In 2025, the festival will be observed on July 21 and July 28, the last two Mondays of the month, known locally as Los Lunes del Cerro.

Rodríguez Zamora was joined by Oaxaca Gov. Salomón Jara Cruz and Saymi Pineda Velasco, the state’s secretary of tourism. The officials underscored the importance of international promotion through Mexico’s diplomatic and cultural networks abroad.

More than 140 events are planned throughout the “July, Month of the Guelaguetza” festivities, including the Mezcal Fair, the Oaxaca Festival of a Thousand Flavors, the Textile Fair, and the Mushroom Fair. A second Delegations Parade will be held on July 26, featuring traditional attire, live music and cultural performances from across the state.

This year, 58 delegations presenting Indigenous and Afro-Mexican communities are participating in the Lunes del Cerro performances, presenting regional dances, rituals and offerings at the Cerro del Fortín Auditorium.

“Oaxaca has everything—gastronomy, beaches, art andheritage,” Rodríguez Zamora said. “It’s a tourism powerhouse that the worldneeds to see.”

For a full schedule of events, visit https://www.oaxaca.gob.mx/sectur/