The Vive Oaxaca Guelaguetza is an authentic cultural festival with food, dance, music, and crafts presented each spring by Senderos. This local festival is like the traditional fiestas celebrated each summer in Oaxaca, Mexico. Guelaguetza is a Zapotec word that means “a commitment of sharing and cooperation.” Guelaguetza is a celebration that honors the gods for sufficient rainfall and a bountiful harvest.

There are several FREE events in Santa Cruz the week of Guelaguetza.

• April 23 – Convite/procession and Fiesta 

  • 5-6PM – Sidewalk procession from Branciforte Small Schools down Water St. to Pacific Avenue ending at Cooper Street, downtown Santa Cruz

  • 6-8PM – Cooper Street Fiesta with dancing, music, folkloric dance instruction (no food for sale).
    

• April 24 – Music & Mole

  • 6-8PM, Branciforte Smalls Schools Field (off Benito Avenue). Purchase a delicious mole dinner prepared by Oaxacan cocineras/chefs while listening to traditional banda music by visiting Oaxacan musicians. 

• April 27 – Guelaguetza ($10 admission)