Oaxaca Culture

Fascinating traditions, festive celebrations and delectable cuisines all make Oaxaca one of Mexico's most enchanting colonial cities. Elements of many of the diverse ethnic groups that dominated the area are still evident in the city's dazzling array of art, language, history and culture.
Oaxaca boasts of a wide variety of native crafts including weaving and pottery. There are about a half a million artists in Oaxaca so there is no wonder that the are is famous for its local flok art. Perhaps the most famous craft is Alebrijes, popular wodden figures of animals, mythical creatures or interesting combinations of both and oftentimes painted in vibrant heus.These are sold all over Mexico, along with another popular native art, Oaxacan pottery.
Hand-woven rugs and other textiles have also gained quiet a following, with visitors from around the world seeking this trasures as collectibles.

Affectionally called The Land of The Seven Moles, Oaxaca is also the home to a wide variety of food. When going to Oaxaca you should try delicious fares such as Tamales, mole dishes, and the famous Oaxacan cheese. Another specialty, available only in Oaxaca are Huevos Oaxaqueños, eggs poached in chilli tomato soup. Not to be missed is the mescal, an alcoholic drink made from maguey plant. Another usual delicacy is the chapulines, a dish made from barbacued grasshopers. Oaxaca is also famous for its chocolate, which is prepared from ground cacao beans and oftentimes includes cinnamon, almonds and other ingredients.

On leisurely days people often hang out by Zocalo, the main square. The cafes that line the sidewalks are a favourite spot of locals and tourists alike. Here you can enjoy concerts, fireworks displays or simply around and view the daily life in Oaxaca. At other time of the year pèople can part take of the cities colourful festivals, such as Guelaquetza, in July and Night of the Radishes in December.
Judging from the cities vibrant culture, you can easily understand why Oaxaca is often refered to as " The Real Mexico". It is a city worth visiting to trully experince the Mexican culture.