Thanksgiving Day and La Guelaguetza: Different Events, Close in Essence

Two celebrations might vary greatly in their origin and time, yet still be extremely similar in what they signify. This is the case with the occasion Americans celebrate as Thanksgiving and the festival Mexicans celebrate as La Guelaguetza. Both transcend time and embody the cultural memory of their nations. The two traditions bring people together, strengthen communities, and are national symbols of gratitude.

Festivities and traditions are a vital part of a country. To really get to know a destination or embrace a culture you must experience its past through the living expressions of its present. As an American, if you cherish a holiday such as Thanksgiving and value its role in American culture, you’ll definitely enjoy the celebrations in Mexico that play an important role in Mexican culture. At the same time, Mexican celebrations help you to gain a better understanding of this multifaceted country through its festivities.  

Your next stop: Oaxaca
Your next celebration: La Guelaguetza

During July, Oaxaca celebrates an ancient festivity that is a result of the union of two cultures: the Spanish and the Zapotecan. This is a celebration of gratitude and offerings from the Zapotecs to the goddess of the tender corn, Centeotl, for bringing rain and a good harvest.

Today, La Guelaguetza is a celebration that unites the eight regions of the state of Oaxaca; bringing them together all in the same place with the same goals: to offer to the world the gift of their distinctive traditions. If you want to discover the differences and distinction of the communities that form Oaxaca, La Guelaguetza is the perfect occasion. People from nearby valleys, Sierra Juarez, La Cañada, Tuxtepec, Mixteca, La Costa and the Istmo de Tehuantepec perform their dances and music, and present their colorful costumes and handicrafts.

 “Lunes del Cerro” (Monday of the Hill) is the main celebration.  For the past 69 years, it has taken place on the last two Mondays in July—for 2008, the dates are the 21st and the 28th --at the Macedonio Alcala Auditorium at the Cerro del Fortín in the city of Oaxaca. Around 11,000 thousand spectators walk up the hill surrounded by fireworks, music and pageantry to be part of one of the two presentations that take place at 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
 
The event starts with the presentation of the goddess Centeotl.  One “goddess” is chosen to represent each delegation based on her knowledge of the culture and traditions. Delight and pride in their folklore fill the faces of those eager to perform. Ecstasy and enthusiasm fill the air. The first delegation begins the celebration.
 
It’s difficult to describe the vivid dances, the distinct musical instruments, the contrasting sounds and rhythms, the multicolored costumes, the masks and adorned hats and the vibrant movements that combine to provide a real gift for the senses and a delight for the spirit.
 
At the end of the presentations, the dancers throw into the air traditional souvenirs from the regions of Oaxaca---pineapples from Papaloapan, a palm hat from the Mixteca or a mezcal from Ejutla—giving the audience a chance to take home a piece of the celebration.

http://www.oaxacainfo.com/guelaguetza.htm

http://oaxacalive.com/guelaguetza.htm

http://www.go-oaxaca.com/traditions/guelaguetza.html