Oaxaca Takeover: La Feria De Mezcal
By Angelica Ruiz
You thought Oaxaca couldn’t get any better after La Guelaguetza? Think again. Just as the rhythm of Guelaguetza’s dances still lingers in the air, Oaxaca shifts gears into another sensory feast—La Feria de Mezcal. This festival is a rendezvous with Oaxaca’s heart and soul, a love letter written in the language of agave.
Hot Girl History Lesson 2.0: The Spirit of Mezcal
Mezcal isn’t just a drink; it’s a cultural icon deeply rooted in the traditions and history of Oaxaca. With its centuries-old production in Oaxaca, this spirit is more than just a beverage—it's a sacred link to the land and the indigenous people who have perfected its craft. Its unique cultural significance, a story waiting to be explored, is a testament to the rich heritage of Oaxaca.
Culturally, mezcal is more than just a drink; it symbolizes Oaxaca’s resilience, heritage, and connection to nature. It’s deeply intertwined with local rituals and celebrations, marking everything from births to weddings. Drinking mezcal is not just about tasting, but about immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of Oaxacan traditions, making each sip a unique and engaging experience.
Each bottle of mezcal is a story of passion, patience, and a deep connection to the earth.
A Spirited Celebration
La Feria de Mezcal is the ultimate tribute to Oaxaca. This festival is a playground for mezcal lovers and, truthfully, anyone who appreciates a good time. But La Feria de Mezcal isn’t just about the drink—it’s about the culture, the tradition, and the people behind it. Just as Guelaguetza celebrates the diverse regions of Oaxaca through dance and music, this festival does so through the art of mezcal making. Each bottle is a piece of Oaxacan heritage, distilled and bottled with love.
From the moment you step into the fairgrounds, you’re engulfed in a sea of culture. The papel picado and alebrije-inspired decor, representing Oaxaca's heart and soul, immediately captivate you. The tantalizing aromas of tacos and traditional Oaxacan food enhance your night of drinking. The energy at the Feria is unparalleled. You're irresistibly drawn to the booths and stands of traditional mezcaleros (mezcal producers) eager to share their stories through their Mezcal, making each sip an immersive and exciting experience of Oaxacan culture.
La Feria De Mezcal: A Personal Experience
The moment I landed in Oaxaca, I made it my mission to go to La Feria De Mezcal. There was no way I would let this opportunity slip through my fingers. This trip was incredibly special to me, as most of my dad’s family also visited Oaxaca to celebrate my grandmother's birthday. We had all set aside a day to attend La Feria De Mezcal.
So, there were 15 of us strolling into the fair, ready to have a blast and make incredible memories. My cousin and I were drawn in by music blasting throughout the venue, a mix of traditional Oaxacan rhythms with a modern twist that kept us moving and grooving from one booth to the next. We were immediately captivated by the lively atmosphere, the colorful decorations, and the warm smiles of the people around us. It was a feeling of being part of something bigger, a celebration of life and culture.
We immediately stop at our first booth, eager to learn more about their specialty, mezcal cream. The booth worker shared the different flavors they curated, from passionfruit to mocha. The mocha mezcal was my absolute favorite, a decadent blend where the smoky, earthy essence of mezcal meets the velvety embrace of dark chocolate mocha. The creaminess smooths the mezcal’s intensity, creating a luscious texture that amplifies the deep cocoa notes.
Our night was filled with laughter, dancing, and, of course, the different flavors of mezcal. We tasted everything from the smoothest, most delicate varieties to the boldest, smokiest flavors that left a lasting impression. Each booth had a unique twist, from a zapping game alongside a drink purchase to a unique take on traditional Mexican snacks.
By the end of the night, my family and I had not only indulged in some of the finest mezcal Oaxaca has to offer but also deepened our connection to our roots, creating memories that we’ll cherish for years to come. La Feria de Mezcal wasn’t just a festival—it was a celebration of everything that makes Oaxaca so special, a place where tradition and modernity meet in the most delicious way possible.
