Join us for a unique cultural tradition that celebrates the baby Jesus as we ring in the new year! Families bring dolls made in his image from their Nativity scenes or home altars, dress them in intricate, locally-made ensembles, and bring them to church on December 31 to take part in a community blessing. The day-long celebration involves a community parade of church-goers with their saints and dancing with Christmas pine branches. The party is colorful and joyous - a really fun regional tradition to witness as you deepen your understanding of Oaxacan culture in mezcal country!

3 spots left! To reserve yours, write to us here.

Includes:

• Personalized guide and translation (Spanish/English)

• Comfortable transportation round trip from Oaxaca City (1 hour each way)

• Quick breakfast of antojitos, little local snacks at our favorite roadside comedor

• Tour of 2 mezcal palenques producing clay pot distilled mezcal, 1 traditional and 1 artisanal

  • Tour of a of an agave nursery and artisanal mezcal palenque producing small batch clay pot distilled run; the palenque is owned and operated by family that has been making mezcal for 100 years and now produces mezcal for national and international sale who is committed to sustainable agriculture and giving back to the community.

  • The second palenque we visit is traditional palenque making micro batches of Minero mezcal who produce mezcal for personal consumption and local sale

• Tasting of mezcal made on site at each palenque

• A chance to purchase mezcal directly from the producers (price not included), our help packing it for travel

• Break at noon to follow the town parade celebrating El Niño Jesús

• Lunch at Ocotlán market of regional dishes

• Drinking water and light snacks

• Donation to community library