calenda essentials by our team
Philharmonic band “Vientos Regionales”
A 14-piece wind and percussion philharmonic band that provides the musical heartbeat of the event. These talented oaxacan musicians march alongside the calendas, playing traditional Oaxacan sones and jarabes that keep everyone dancing from start to finish.
marmotas
A large, cloth sphere that is spun and danced through the streets to announce the celebration. It can be customized with your event's branding or names.
Tiliches
Iconic characters originating from the carnival traditions of Putla Villa de Guerrero. They wear suits completely covered in colorful rags and shreds of fabric, paired with masks made of palm or leather, bringing a playful, mischievous, and vibrant energy to the crowd.
Chinas oaxaqueñas
Traditional female dancers representing the old neighborhoods of Oaxaca city. Dressed in wide satin skirts and embroidered blouses, they gracefully dance while balancing heavy, beautifully decorated flower baskets on their heads.
Monos de calenda
Giant, structure-based puppets made of papier-mâché and fabric, reaching up to 10 feet tall. Puppeteers wear them over their shoulders, dancing and twirling them around to bring high energy and movement to the calenda.
Faroles
Handmade paper lanterns carried on a pole. They are carried alongside the marmotas to add layers of traditional light, depth and beauty to evening and afternoon calendas.
Istmo
Regional dancers showcasing the diverse cultures of Oaxaca. The Istmeña represents the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, famous for its magnificent hand-embroidered floral velvet dresses and the women´s elegant cadence when they dance.
Pinotepa
Pinotepa represents the vibrant and energetic coastal region, where mixtec and afromexican heritage converge, known for lively satin skirts and handkerchief dances.
Flor de piña
A dancer performing one of Oaxaca’s most famous and synchronized cultural dances from the Papaloapan region. Dressed in an indigenous tunic (huipil), she dances gracefully while carrying a fresh pineapple over her shoulder.
Danza de la Pluma
One of the most prestigious traditional dancers of Oaxaca, performing the "Dance of the Feathers," which narrates the Spanish Conquest. The dancer wears an spectacular headdress made of bright feathers, performing athletic, rhythmic leaps and steps.
Curado de mezcal
Curado is an artisanal mezcal naturally infused or cured with local fruits (such as passionfruit or hibiscus), creating a smooth and sweet drink. It is traditionally served on the go in canutos (natural bamboo-like shot glasses worn around the neck).
Guajolotes
In oaxacan traditional weddings, live turkeys are gifted as a symbol of abundance and prosperity. Guests can dance with these handcrafted papier-mâché turkeys above their heads, adding a festive, authentic touch to the calenda.
Photographer
@jesus_smith is a dedicated visual storyteller who will accompany your calenda capturing the special moments and the interaction between your guests and the performers, delivering a premium collection of digital images ready for your personal or corporate archives.
Drone
Aerial videos that capture your calenda winding through the historic streets of Oaxaca. This service includes a social media Reel, blending ground footage with stunning overhead perspectives.
Pyrotechnics and colored smoke
An optional upgrade that adds a dramatic flair to your celebration. Dancers carry traditional fireworks baskets that shoot safe, festive sparks, while colored smoke can be integrated into the marmotas.
China oaxaqueña with candy basket
A variation where a China Oaxaqueña carries a basket filled with mexican candies, throwing treats into the crowd to sweeten the experience for your guests.