Join us in celebrating Carnaval, the last night of anonmity and celebration before the start of Lent. In both these communities in the Ocotlán Valley Carnval is celebrated with costumes, music, and dancing. First we visit an alebrije workshop where we learn about about the carved wooden and painted animal figures as well as the traditional Carnaval masks made in this community. We´ll see the different Carnval groups of the community getting ready for their romp around the town center painted in oil paint and banging on cowbells.

Next we head over to the mezcal producing community of Santa Catrina Minas where we learn about the production of traditional mezcal in clay pots and sample mezcal at the source. From there we´ll head to the center of town for their Carnaval celebration where we´ll partake in the dancing and merriment.

Only 6 spots left! Write to us here to reserve yours.

Cost per person: $165 USD/3,100 MXN(Open Outing 2-6 participants)

Includes:

• Personalized guide and translation (Spanish/English)

• Comfortable and safe transportation round trip from Oaxaca city (1 hour each way)

• Visit to an alebrije workshop in San Martin Tilcajite, where we learn about the process of making alebrijes (painted carved wooden animals) as well as the history of Carnaval masks in the community

• Farm to table lunch prepared by our hosts at the alebrije workshop

• Watch the beginning of the Carnaval celebration in the community

• Visit to a palenque in the home of a 4th generation mezcal producer working with his sons to make micro batches of Minero mezcal for personal consumption and local sale

• Tasting of Minero mezcal made on site

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

• Watch and particiapte in the Carnaval celebration

• Tlayudas at our favorite roadside comedor that prepares everything on woodefire and with heirloom crops

• Drinking water and light snacks

• Donation to community library