Mexico

Christmas and New Year's in Oaxaca and Puebla

Program No. 8696RJ
Leave the snowmen behind as you experience an authentic Mexican Christmas and ring in the New Year Oaxaca-style! See ancient rituals and visit well-known archaeological sites.

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At a Glance

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.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles daily over varied terrain. Elevations up to 7,200 feet.

What You'll Learn

  • Participate in local Christmas Pageants.
  • Make piñatas and bring them to children at a convent.
  • Observe the legendary craftspeople of Oaxaca at work in local shops and markets.

General Notes

Please note schedule varies to allow for holiday-related activities.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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María Teresa Peniche
Maria Teresa Peniche, who prefers to be known simply as “Teri,” is a highly regarded addition to Geronimo’s Road Scholar staff. Teri pursued a career in higher education, preparing school curriculums designed as well as teaching English in secondary education. After retiring, Teri’s vast knowledge of Mexico’s history and culture paved the way towards her becoming a Group Leader. Blessed with a caring disposition and a great desire to share her love of her country, Teri’s capacity for sharing her considerable knowledge is unrivaled.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of María Peniche
María Teresa Peniche View biography
Maria Teresa Peniche, who prefers to be known simply as “Teri,” is a highly regarded addition to Geronimo’s Road Scholar staff. Teri pursued a career in higher education, preparing school curriculums designed as well as teaching English in secondary education. After retiring, Teri’s vast knowledge of Mexico’s history and culture paved the way towards her becoming a Group Leader. Blessed with a caring disposition and a great desire to share her love of her country, Teri’s capacity for sharing her considerable knowledge is unrivaled.
Profile Image of Arturo Vertiz
Arturo Vertiz View biography
Arturo Vertiz knew from an early age that he wanted to work in the travel industry, focusing on learning English and French in school. Graduating with a degree in tourism and business administration, he worked in the hotel industry before founding his own travel agency. Arturo’s greatest honor was being chosen to manage the housing complex for athletes participating in the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara. As a Group Leader and a Mexican national, Arturo loves interacting with visitors in search of learning experiences.
Profile Image of Suzanne Barbezat
Suzanne Barbezat View biography
Suzanne Barbezat grew up in Montréal, Canada, but holds a deep love and appreciation for Oaxaca. After graduating with a degree in anthropology, she lost her heart to Oaxaca on a solo trip through Latin America. Moving to Mexico in 1998, she has worked as a teacher, group leader and writer Suzanne spends her free time discovering off-the-beaten-path locales around Oaxaca with her Mexican husband and children. There's nothing she enjoys more than getting to know Oaxaca better and sharing her love for it.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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