How to Experience the Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca 2025: Dates, Tickets, Events & Tips

Thinking about attending the Guelaguetza in Oaxaca?

Excellent choice!

The Guelaguetza is Oaxaca’s most important cultural festival, a one-of-a-kind celebration that brings the entire city to life with traditional dances, vibrant parades, local cuisine, and sacred rituals from the eight regions of Oaxaca.

But be prepared: this is a very popular event that attracts thousands of visitors every year. If you want to make the most of it, planning ahead is essential.

That’s why I’ve created this complete guide to help you experience the Guelaguetza to the fullest—from key dates and ticket tips, to where the main shows take place, things to do around the city, where to stay, and my best practical advice to enjoy this unique tradition like a pro.

So, how can you experience the Guelaguetza in Oaxaca without missing a thing?

Let’s find out!

1. What Is the Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca?

The Guelaguetza is the most emblematic cultural event in the state of Oaxaca, and one of the most important in Mexico!

It takes place every year in July, over two Mondays called “Lunes del Cerro”, on the heights of the city, at the open-air theater on the Fortín hill.

This great gathering celebrates the cultural diversity of Oaxaca’s eight regions through traditional dances, typical costumes, music, offerings and, above all, a strong spirit of sharing.

2. When Is the Guelaguetza Held in Oaxaca?

The Guelaguetza is held every year in Oaxaca during the month of July, specifically on the last two Mondays of the month, known locally as “Lunes del Cerro”.

In 2025 the official dates are July 21 and 28. These are the days when the big dance shows are held in the Guelaguetza amphitheatre on Fortín hill.

But I suggest you come before then, as the festivities actually run from July 1 to August 2, with parades, craft markets, concerts, exhibitions and free shows bringing the whole city to life from mid-July onwards.

3. Where Does the Guelaguetza Take Place?

The Guelaguetza takes place all over the city of Oaxaca, but the heart of the official celebration is the Auditorium de la Guelaguetza, high up on the Cerro del Fortín.

This is where the two major official performances take place every year, on the two Mondays following July 16, known as the Lunes del Cerro. Each of these days features two performances: one in the morning, the other in the afternoon. So there are four official performances in total.

The auditorium is a modern, open-air amphitheatre with a panoramic view over the city.

Although these performances are the most eagerly awaited, the Guelaguetza goes far beyond the auditorium: throughout the city, you’ll find traditional dance parades, concerts, craft exhibitions, markets, free open-air shows and countless events organized by the invited communities.

These events take place in the main plazas, museums, theaters and in neighborhoods such as Xochimilco and Jalatlaco.

That’s why I highly recommend staying several days: even without a ticket for the auditorium, you can enjoy the Guelaguetza atmosphere in the streets of Oaxaca!

4. How to Buy Guelaguetza 2025 Tickets

If you’d like to attend the official Guelaguetza performances, scheduled for Mondays July 15 and 22, 2025 in the famous Guelaguetza Auditorium, it’s essential to buy your tickets in advance. This is one of Mexico’s most popular cultural events, and tickets runs out quickley!

There are two ways to buy tickets – online or on site:

4.1 How to Buy Guelaguetza Tickets Online

Tickets are sold via the Superboletos platform.

Two stages are planned: a pre-sale reserved for Banamex cardholders, with 15% of total tickets available (limited to two tickets per person), then regular sales from June 1, with the remaining 85% accessible to everyone (also limited to two tickets per person).

Here are the announced prices for 2025:

• Palco A: MXN 1,423.30 in presale / MXN 1,573.78 on regular sale
• Palco B: MXN 1,124.61 presale / MXN 1,273.96 regular sale
• Sections C and D: free admission, without reservation, on a first-come, first-served basis

4.2 How to Get Guelaguetza Tickets in Oaxaca (In Person)

You can also buy your tickets in person in Oaxaca, at the official sales point located in the offices of the Secretaría de Turismo del Estado de Oaxaca, on Avenida Benito Juárez 703, Centro – see on the map here!

4.3 What If You Don’t Get a Guelaguetza Ticket?

Don’t panic!

La Guelaguetza isn’t just a show at the auditorium, it’s the whole city that celebrates, with parades, concerts, traditional dances, craft markets and much more.

As I’ll explain in the next section, there are plenty of things to do in Oaxaca during the Guelaguetza – and many of them are free!

5. What to Do in Oaxaca During the Guelaguetza (Besides the Main Show)

During Guelaguetza week, the city of Oaxaca literally transforms itself: shows, parades, concerts, craft fairs, cultural exhibitions…

With plenty of events every day, all over the city center and even in neighbouring villages.

The most eagerly awaited are the parades of delegaciones, known as convites: festive, colorful parades in which each group presents its traditional dances and costumes.

They usually take place on the two Saturdays preceding the official Guelaguetza, in the late afternoon, from the Cruz de Piedra to the Zócalo or the Auditorium.

Another must-see is the Guelaguetza Popular, an event parallel to the official version, organized “by the people and for the people”. This alternative edition defends free access to culture and celebrates diversity in an inclusive and committed way.

In 2025, here’s the announced program:

• july 19: Convite popular at 3pm from Carmen Alto to the Zócalo.
• july 20: Calenda at 3pm, again departing from Carmen Alto.
• july 21: Gran Guelaguetza Popular at 9 a.m., at the Tecnológico de Oaxaca stadium.

Other major events this month includes:

• The Mezcal Fair, usually on the Esplanade de la Guelaguetza: tastings, concerts, gastronomy, etc
• The Moles Festival – where you can taste 28 types of moles! – last Thursday and Friday in July
• Handicrafts Fair, around Santo Domingo and Llano: textiles, alebrijes, ceramics, jewelry, etc.
• Tlayuda Fair – a traditional Oaxacan dish not to be missed
• Alebrijes Fair – colorful fantasy creatures that play an important role in Mexican folk art
• Free exhibitions and concerts in the historic center: Plaza de la Danza, Zócalo, museums…

Finally, some nearby villages, such as San Andrés Huayápam and Viguera, organize their own authentic performances, also known as community Guelaguetzas.

6. Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca During the Guelaguetza

During Guelaguetza, Oaxaca welcomes thousands of visitors from all over the country and abroad.

It’s one of the most popular tourist periods of the year, so it’s essential to book your accommodation several months in advance!

Prices rise quickly, and well-located hotels are often fully booked by spring.

If you want to fully experience the festive atmosphere, I recommend staying in the historic center of Oaxaca. You’ll be in the immediate vicinity of the main events, calendas, craft markets, concerts and exhibitions. This is also where you’ll find the majority of restaurants, cafés and shops.

Another interesting option is to stay in Xochimilco or Jalatlaco. These two colorful neighborhoods are often beautifully decorated for the Guelaguetza. They offer a good compromise between proximity to the center, local ambiance and a little more peace and quiet in the evenings.

But be sure to check the distance to the Guelaguetza Auditorium, especially if you plan to walk there.

Here are my recommendations for hotels to stay at during Guelaguetza, for different budgets:

• Viajero Oaxaca Hostel: a vibrant, social hostel with dormitories from 21 usd and private rooms from 68$. It boasts a great atmosphere, an incredible rooftop bar and plenty of excursions and activities. It’s my top choice in Oaxaca for solo travelers and those looking to connect with others while exploring the city.
• NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca: A welcoming hotel perfect for families, with rooms from 157$ usd per night. It’s renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, colorful decor and central location, close to the main attractions. It’s an ideal, affordable base for families to explore Oaxaca.
• Hotel Azul de Oaxaca: This 4-star boutique hotel, a few steps from the Santo Domingo church, offers elegant rooms combining contemporary design and traditional Mexican style, from 337$ usd a night. It features a rooftop bar with breathtaking views, a delicious breakfast, a restaurant and a café with freshly baked bread!
• Quinta Real Oaxaca: Located in a former 16th-century convent, 5 minutes from Santo Domingo church and 10 from Zócalo square. Elegant rooms in a romantic atmosphere, from 440$ usd per night. Highlights: impressive architecture, outdoor pool, gourmet restaurant. The best choice for a luxury stay in Oaxaca.

7. How to Get Around Oaxaca During the Guelaguetza

Getting around Oaxaca during Guelaguetza can be a challenge if you’re not prepared in advance. Between closed streets, traffic jams and crowds, it’s best to know the options available to get around easily and reach the various events.

Here are the most practical solutions to make the most of your stay.

7.1 Free Shuttle Buses

The state government runs free buses throughout July to facilitate access to the Guelaguetza’s major events. These buses serve eight routes covering not only the Auditorio Guelaguetza, but also several venues and events.

It’s a great way to avoid traffic and parking hassles! You can consult the exact routes and stops directly on the official Citybus website: Guelaguetza Routes

7.2 Getting Around by Taxi

Platforms like Uber don’t exist in Oaxaca, but that’s not a problem because during the Guelaguetza, more than 1,200 cab drivers take part in the organization!

Always remember to ask for the fare before entering the vehicle to avoid unpleasant surprises. In any case, each cab has an information card with a QR code, enabling you to check the official fare, the identity of the driver and the main routes served during the event.

7.3 Driving in Oaxaca

If you have a car, be aware that it’s difficult to get around and park in the city center on performance days.

Parking is available at the Auditorio Guelaguetza, but spaces are limited and you need to arrive early. Think on having a little extra time, especially on the days of the official Guelaguetza, when some streets are blocked to traffic.

7.4 Exploring Oaxaca on Foot

This is the quickest and most pleasant way to get around if you’re staying in the historic center, as it’s compact. What’s more, during the Guelaguetza, walking also allows you to discover the entertainment, markets and festive decorations set up throughout the city.

8. Practical Tips for Attending the Guelaguetza

8.1 What to Wear to the Guelaguetza

In July, the climate in Oaxaca is hot but also often humid: it’s the rainy season. Make sure you bring light, breathable clothing, a hat or cap for the sun, and a raincoat or small umbrella in case of a late-afternoon rain. If you’re attending performances in the auditorium, don’t forget to protect your bag with a waterproof cover or plastic bag.

8.2 Should You Arrive Early to the Shows?

Yes, especially if you’re attending official performances at the Auditorium Guelaguetza. Even with a ticket, it’s advisable to arrive at least an hour early.

The walk up to the auditorium can be slow because of the crowds, and there are sometimes long queues at the controls.

Remember to bring a small cushion if you have unnumbered seats, as the concrete benches are not very comfortable.

8.3 How to avoid the crowds

The Guelaguetza is a very popular event, so it’s bound to be crowded. But if you want to enjoy it more quietly, choose weekday activities and fairs rather than weekends, and avoid peak times (late afternoon and early evening).

Community Guelaguetzas in nearby villages are also an excellent, more local and less crowded alternative.

8.4 How Many Days to Spend in Oaxaca for the Guelaguetza

I recommend spending at least 4 or 5 days in Oaxaca during the Guelaguetza. This will allow you to experience the main performance, take part in craft fairs, visit the surrounding area and discover side events, without being pressed for time.

8.5 Respecting the Festival and Local Traditions

Guelaguetza is a deeply cultural and community festival, not Cancún’s spring break!

Even if the atmosphere is festive, don’t shout, drink excessively or disrespect the processions. Be attentive, give space to the marching groups, don’t touch costumes without permission, and ask before photographing anyone.

Show that travelers know how to respect the local culture, so that visitors remain welcome in the future.

9. Guelaguetza in Oaxaca: Frequently Asked Questions

9.1 Can You Attend the Guelaguetza Without a Ticket?

Yes, there are free alternatives to the official Guelaguetza.

Several villages around Oaxaca organize community Guelaguetzas, open to all. The popular Guelaguetza, held at the Tecnológico de Oaxaca stadium, is also totally free.

9.2 How Much Are Guelaguetza Tickets?

Paid bleachers (palcos A and B) are available from 1124 to 1573 pesos, depending on the date of purchase and service charges.

Sections C and D are free, but so its the access, without reservation, and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You need to arrive very early to get a seat.

9.3 Where Can You Watch the Guelaguetza for Free?

You can attend free Guelaguetzas in several villages around the city, such as San Andrés Huayápam or Viguera.

The Guelaguetza Popular is also an excellent choice. In some years, live broadcasts on giant screens are organized in the Zócalo or near Santo Domingo.

9.4 Do You Need to Speak Spanish to Enjoy the Guelaguetza?

No, you don’t, as the music, costumes and dances are universal.

9.5 Can You See Multiple Events in One Day?

Yes, absolutely. The Guelaguetza program is very dense.

For example, you can start the day with a visit to a museum, go to a craft fair in the afternoon, and finish with a calenda or a free concert in the evening. All you have to do is organize your time.

9.6 Is the Guelaguetza Kid-Friendly?

Yes, many events are family-friendly and visually captivating.

It’s just important to avoid crowded moments and to think about their comfort: take a cap, water, a few snacks and a small cushion if you’re going to the Auditorium show.

9.7 Is Oaxaca Safe During the Guelaguetza?

Yes, Oaxaca is considered a safe city, especially the historic center. During Guelaguetza, security is reinforced.

Nevertheless, it’s advisable to be careful with your personal belongings, especially in crowds, as is the case all over the world.

Is the Guelaguetza in Oaxaca Worth It? (My Honest Opinion)

It certainly is!

It’s one of Mexico’s most emblematic cultural events, with traditional dances, regional music, handicrafts, colorful outfits, culinary specialties…

Attending the Guelaguetza in Oaxaca is the best way to discover the richness of the indigenous peoples of this great region.

But beware: this is a very popular festival, attracting visitors from all over the country and abroad. So it’s imperative to organize your stay well: book your tickets, your activities and above all your accommodation in Oaxaca as early as possible.

And if you’re a fan of this type of traditional celebration, the Festival of the Dead in Oaxaca is another exceptional time to visit the region. With its flower-filled altars, candles, offerings and unique atmosphere in the streets, it’s another highlight of the year not to be missed.

So, are you ready to experience Guelaguetza in Oaxaca in 2025? It’s time to start planning!

Renting a Car to Explore Oaxaca After the Guelaguetza

Driving from Mexico City to Oaxaca de Juárez takes around 6 hours, or about 4 hours if you’re coming from Puebla.

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Oaxaca and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

How to Find Cheap Flights to Oaxaca for the Guelaguetza

Xoxocotlán International Airport receives flights from Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, Tijuana and other national and international destinations, mainly with Aeromexico and Volaris.

To find your cheap flight to Oaxaca or your international flight to Mexico, use our flight comparator in collaboration with Skyscanner. It will help you find the best price!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

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• Oaxaca: the 7 Best Coffee Shops You Have to Visit
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