Guelaguetza In Oaxaca

The Most Important Indigenous Celebration In Oaxaca

“Corn and Husk Decorations” — Photo by Author

Guelaguetza is a confusing looking word. Pronunciation is, (gay-la-getz’-ah). Hope this makes it simpler! The word means “offering” in the Zapotec language. It implies a reciprocal exchange.

Guelaguetza is the most important indigenous celebration in Oaxaca and goes on throughout the month of July. It is a celebration of the Corn Goddess.

This celebration began as a Zapotec tradition. When the Aztecs conquered Oaxaca it became an Aztec tradition, though the original celebration was essentially unchanged.

Guelaguetza began in the 16th century, and has been celebrated continuously in Oaxaca City to this day. It is a tradition of indigenous costumed dancing by gender separated groups.

“Old Man Corn” — Photo by Author

These decorated figures are seen everywhere in Oaxaca throughout the month of July. I have not been able to discover how Old Man Corn somehow represents the Corn Goddess. Perhaps he is the one who plants and tends the corn.

The colorful strips of cloth he wears are the principal decoration of Guelaguetza. They are seen everywhere, decorating shop fronts and doorways throughout Oaxaca.