What’s on in Oaxaca this November

Dia de Muertos takes place on the first and second of November, although there are celebrations that continue into the month. During the days there are altar making workshops and face painting available. Given how important Day of the Dead is here, this month’s activities in Oaxaca city and around the state are front-loaded, but don’t worry: from celebrations of mezcal and jazz to an annual festival honoring Oaxaca’s third culture, there’s fun to last the whole month. Follow along to see what’s on this month in Oaxaca.

Día de Muertos – November 1-2

There are Day of the Dead-related activities all over the state for those interested in taking part in this tradition. Try a cemetery visit: after dusk on either day, visiting a cemetery in downtown Oaxaca city like the Panteón Genera or the Xochimilco cemetery, or one further out, like those in San Felipe or Xoxo. There is often live music and intimate performances. Visitors are welcome to walk through the cemeteries. 

For something more lively, stay in the city, where the streets are bursting with comparsas, or parade troupes. To find them, just listen for the drums, but you can also try Jalatlaco at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 1 or Xochimilco at 7 p.m. the next day. 

In Etla, you can dance until dawn in a haze of wild costumes and brass band music in the muerteadas, or visit homes where doors are open to the parade to share memories of the departed while sipping mezcal.

Mercado Atemporal – November 1-2

This beautifully curated market presents products by contemporary Mexican designers. Hosted at Casa Murguía, which you may recognize from its usual use as a venue in Oaxaca’s wedding destination scene. They have amazing decorations, great food, mezcal and music from local DJs. Free entry from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Calle Murguía 103.

Mezcal Fest Mexico – November 1-3

The tenth edition of this meeting between art, gastronomy and fine spirits. Mezcal Fest México is a tribute to culture and sharing traditions through drinks. Runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Entry is 200 pesos.

Full Moon and Mezcal – November 15

On every full moon, distillery Casa Ancestral hosts an evening event where they invite guests for a three course meal designed by a celebrated chef. Then guests have the opportunity to learn about the mezcal process and see an agave cook by the light of the full moon. Be sure to book in advance.

Vela de las Intrépidas – November 15-17

The Zapotec communities of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec are famous for the muxe, a third gender in their culture. Assigned male at birth, muxes assume female social roles, such as taking care of elderly people. They are celebrated every year during a festival known as the Vela de las Intrépidas. The first day includes a parade with floats and muxes riding horses, showering the crowd with gifts. Later comes the main celebration, where the Queen is crowned. Everyone is welcome, but remember to dress for the occasion!

Mazunte Jazz Festival – November 15-16

For over a decade, the Mazunte International Jazz Festival has been held in this small beach community, with pure and fusion jazz and rhythms such as trova, reggae and rock. There are opportunities to taste Oaxacan food and purchase local crafts, as well as participate in a turtle release and other eco-friendly events. There are also other activities such as yoga classes, art exhibitions and pre-Columbian dance performances.

Guelaguetza del Mar – November 1-30

This seaside Guelaguetza’s artistic, gastronomic, cultural, sporting and musical activities are projected to attract thousands of local, national and international visitors. The celebrations will be in various locations along the Oaxacan coast and will include events such as the Coastal Dance Festival in San Pedro Mixtepec on Nov. 16 and 17 and International Surfing Tournament and the Zicatela Mexican Pro 2024 International Surf Tournament. 

Patricia Belli at Parallel Gallery – Through December 15

Parallel Gallery presents “Osuario,” an exhibition of two new pieces by Nicaraguan sculptor Patricia Belli. This installation evokes a range of meanings about the idea of death as a confluence that subsists beyond pain, sadness and rage, and as a presence that persists.

Anna Bruce is an award-winning British photojournalist based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Just some of the media outlets she has worked with include Vice, The Financial Times, Time Out, Huffington Post, The Times of London, the BBC and Sony TV. Find out more about her work at her website or visit her on social media on Instagram or on Facebook.