Veggies Become Art at the Night of the Radishes Festival

Oaxaca City, Mexico comes alive with the magic of nocturnal vegetables every Dec.23 with the Noche de Rabanos, or Night of the Radishes Festival.

Spaniards introduced the radish to Mexico in the 16th century. Because these veggies didn’t sell well at first, a pair of monks created a contest where radishes would be carved into intricate shapes and patterns to encourage people to buy them at market. The city of Zócalo has had this festive night of vegetable art officially on the books since 1897.

The root vegetable serves as an artist’s palette as local people carve humans and animals out of the radishes. As a part of the elongated pre-Christmas festivities in the region, all of the intricate carvings are put up for judgment. The radishes can be up to six pounds and past entries into the contest have included everything from extensive nativity scenes to sculptured saints.

The winner is celebrated by the crowd and captured forever in a photo for the local paper. If you’re celebrating the holidays in Mexico, take time to check out this uniquely Oaxacan tradition.

If you’re in Oaxaca City on Dec.23, try rounding out your trip with a few more Mexican favorites. Located in southern Mexico, the state of Oaxaca is home to both some of the tallest mountains and lowest coasts in the area. Though the terrain is a bit tough, it only serves to preserve ancient cultures like the Zapotecs and Mixtecs. You can explore these cultures, which make you feel like you’re in the era of the Aztecs in modern day. There are also beautiful mountain vistas on Monte Albán and the resort area of Huatulco on the coast.

Make your next holiday a mash-up of mountains and beaches and see how ancient cultures and modern amenities collide in Oaxaca, Mexico. Be sure to enjoy a few radishes along the way!

Do you like being the first to know?

If you enjoy always getting the best tips, deals and insider news before everyone else then make sure to follow us on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter.