Thousands gather in Oaxaca de Juárez for the third Guelaguetza 2025 parade, celebrating music, dance, and Indigenous traditions. Delegation parades continue on July 19 and 26.
The heart of Oaxaca de Juárez pulsed with color, music, and centuries-old traditions as thousands of spectators lined the streets of the Historic Center to witness the third major parade of Guelaguetza 2025, one of Mexico’s most iconic cultural celebrations.
Leading the vibrant procession was Patricia Casiano Zaragoza, the official representative of Goddess Centéotl 2025, a symbolic figure honoring fertility, maize, and Indigenous heritage. Walking alongside her were members of the Intersecretarial Committee of the Guelaguetza Festivities and municipal authorities, all moving to the infectious rhythms of sones and jarabes—traditional folk music that resonates across Oaxaca’s valleys.
According to a government statement, the parade not only highlighted the spirit of unity that defines the Guelaguetza but also showcased the diversity and resilience of Oaxaca’s Indigenous communities. “This celebration is more than a festival—it is a living connection to our roots and traditions,” the release stated.
Cultural Pride on Display
Among the most anticipated appearances were the Chinas Oaxaqueñas of Casilda, women recognized for preserving one of Oaxaca’s most emblematic dances. With baskets of flowers balanced gracefully atop their heads, their performance drew cheers from locals and visitors alike, celebrating femininity, strength, and cultural pride.
The San Bartolo Coyotepec delegation took center stage with the spectacular Danza de la Pluma, a ceremonial performance rich in symbolism that dramatizes the arrival of the Spanish in Oaxaca and the Indigenous response. The ornate feathered headdresses and precise choreography captivated the audience.
Communities such as San Antonino Castillo Velasco and Santa Lucía del Camino brought their unique flair to the parade, sharing dances, traditional garments, and musical expressions rooted in generations of local heritage. The streets echoed with regional pride as dancers from Macuilxochitl de Artigas Carranza, Ocotlán de Morelos, and San Antonio de la Cal brought their cultural identity to life for both residents and tourists.
A Monthlong Cultural Celebration
July is officially the Month of Guelaguetza, and the festivities extend far beyond a single parade. The Spring Government of Oaxaca has invited residents and travelers to participate in ongoing cultural activities throughout the city and surrounding towns.
Of particular note are the Delegation Parades, which bring together groups from across the state to share their music, attire, and traditions. The next parades are scheduled for July 19 and 26 at 6:00 p.m., beginning at the Fountain of the Eight Regions, a key landmark in northern Oaxaca City.
“These events not only draw tourism but serve as a vital platform for cultural preservation,” said a local organizer. “They ensure that younger generations remain connected to their Indigenous identity.”
A Global Invitation
With thousands of national and international tourists already attending the early celebrations, Guelaguetza 2025 is expected to attract record numbers. Hotels in the city center are reporting high occupancy, and artisan markets are bustling with visitors seeking embroidered garments, handmade textiles, and regional delicacies.
Organizers encourage attendees to follow the official social media channels of the Government of Oaxaca for updates, schedules, and cultural programming. In addition to parades, events include traditional food fairs, handicraft exhibitions, concerts, and theatrical performances highlighting Oaxaca’s rich cultural mosaic.
As Oaxaca continues to welcome the world during this vibrant time, the message is clear: Guelaguetza is not just a show—it is an offering of joy, community, and living heritage.
Tags: Guelaguetza 2025, Oaxaca festivals, Mexican culture, Indigenous traditions, Oaxaca tourism, cultural events Mexico, July events Oaxaca
