Revel in the long history and rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca during the region’s fascinating cycle of holiday ceremonies. With roots based in prehistoric rituals, discover a full display of seasonal festivities in Oaxaca, Puebla and Mexico City as they build through colorful events and commemorations and culminate in the extravagant pageant of Christmas and a festive dinner to ring in the New Year.

Highlights

Participate in local celebrations surrounding the pageant of Christmas.

Create piñatas and bring them as gifts to children at a local convent.

Observe the legendary craftspeople of Oaxaca at work in local shops and markets.

Activity Particulars

Elevation in Mexico City 7,350 feet, Puebla 7,091 feet, Oaxaca 5,085 feet. Air in Mexico City can be highly polluted. Walking up to two miles, uneven terrain.

Day 1

Days 1-8

Surrounded by the 3,000-year history of Oaxaca, join locals to delve into Mexico’s fiestas, legends and traditions. Visit the Santo Domingo Art Museum in the former convent of the Santo Domingo Church and observe artisans preparing for the Fiesta de Rabanos radish festival at the Zocalo. Venture to Cuilapan de Guerrero, Zachila and Arrazola, renowned for its alebrijes woodcarvings — brightly-colored folk sculptures of imaginary creatures. Visit the Monte Alban and Mitla archaeological ruins and the weaver’s community of Teotitlan del Valle. Make piñatas, attend the Noche de Rabanos festivities and sit down to Christmas Eve dinner before joining local celebrations. Visit children at Josefino’s convent and observe local artisans at work along the Ocotlan Route.

Lodging: Hotel in the historic center.

Days 9-11

Walking through Puebla, a guide explains the significance of the historic buildings around you. Embark on an all-day excursion to Cholula archaeological site, including the big pyramid, then continue to Santa Maria Tonanzintla and San Francisco Acatepec Church. Visit the Amparo Museum and a Talavera tile shop, and gain a national perspective in lectures addressing Mexico’s history and current economic and political climate.

Lodging: Hotel in historic district.

Days 12-15

Visit the National Museum of Anthropology and spend a day at the Teotihuacan archaeological site. Explore the historic heart of Mexico City, stopping at the Zocalo, cathedral, National Palace and Frida Kahlo Museum.

Lodging: Centrally located hotel.

Mexico

The oldest of the land’s found by Europeans in the New World, Mexico has endured a rough history at the hands of Cortes and subsequent invaders. Despite a turbulent past, the country maintains its relaxed and inviting charm with a mix of modern and traditional from its industrious cities to its captivating wildernesses.