At the core of the Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of Mexico’s rich culinary culture, bringing together food lovers from around the world to experience the flavors that make Oaxaca a gastronomic epicenter. Taking place from February 20-23, 2025, this festival is your gateway to exploring the diverse cuisine and culture that define this special region.

Why Oaxaca? As the gastronomic capital of Mexico, Oaxaca offers an unparalleled culinary landscape. From its famous seven moles to its emerging regional wines and the iconic spirit of mezcal, Oaxaca is the perfect setting for a festival that celebrates food and drink in its purest form. This event is designed for those who want to not only taste but understand the cultural significance behind each dish and drink.

The festival is independently operated, featuring a carefully curated lineup of events that highlight the best of Oaxacan cuisine and artisanal craftsmanship. Whether you’re attending a hands-on chocolate-making workshop or exploring the bustling markets, the festival promises an immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Oaxaca’s culinary scene.

Please note: While Where Sidewalks End is not directly involved in the operation of the festival, we are proud to be the exclusive pre and post-tour operator. Our tours allow you to extend your stay and dive even deeper into the wonders of Oaxaca, offering personalized experiences that showcase the region’s ancestral art, food, and ancient traditions. Questions regarding the festival should be directed to the hosts, here.

Don’t miss out—secure your ticket and join the festival in Oaxaca to explore the best of what the city has to offer.

Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival:

A Culinary Journey Through the Heart of Mexico

The Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival, running from February 20-23, 2025, is a celebration of Oaxaca’s culinary diversity. Nestled in the cultural heart of Mexico, this festival is where food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and cultural explorers gather to immerse themselves in the flavors, traditions, and artistry that make Oaxaca a gastronomic paradise.

The Mission of the Festival

The mission of the Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival is to showcase the deep-rooted culinary traditions and innovative spirit that define Oaxacan cuisine. This festival is an opportunity to explore the cultural significance behind every dish and drink. Whether it’s tasting the seven moles of Oaxaca, exploring the bustling mercados, or discovering the region’s mezcal production, the festival offers an authentic experience that connects you to the heart of Oaxaca’s culinary scene.

Highlights of the Festival

The festival kicks off on Thursday, February 20, with the Bienvenida Oaxaca Food and Wine Festival, an opening event designed to welcome you to the vibrant world of Oaxacan culture. Set in one of Oaxaca’s most classic hotels, surrounded by museums and cathedrals, you’ll enjoy signature cocktails, Mexican wines, and locally brewed craft beer while sampling typical Oaxacan street food in a relaxed and stunning setting.

On Friday, the adventure continues with Market & Mezcal Day. The morning begins with a guided tour of Benito Juarez Mercado, where you’ll explore a bustling hub of local commerce, taste traditional pastries, and chat with vendors about the local produce. Lunch follows in the Pasillo de Humo, where women fan flames and grill meats in a fiery display that culminates in a mouthwatering meal. In the afternoon, the focus shifts to mezcal, Oaxaca’s iconic spirit. At the Cultural Center of Mezcal, you’ll learn about different types of agave and distillation methods, followed by a guided tasting that will deepen your appreciation for this ancient drink.

Saturday brings a hands-on experience with The Cacao & Chocolate Experience, where you’ll craft your own chocolate bar using traditional methods, and an Alebrije Artist Workshop, where you can watch and learn about the intricate process of creating these colorful wooden carvings. The day ends with a wine-paired dinner at Cruz Cocina Mixta, offering breathtaking views of Oaxaca City and a menu that celebrates the region’s culinary and vinicultural excellence.

Who Attends the Festival

The Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival attracts a diverse crowd of attendees who share a passion for food, drink, and culture. From seasoned food critics and wine connoisseurs to curious travelers and local residents, the festival is a melting pot of individuals united by their love for authentic culinary experiences. Attendees come to Oaxaca to connect with the cultural stories behind every dish, to learn from local artisans, and to be inspired by the traditions that have shaped Oaxacan cuisine for centuries.

While the Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival operates independently, Where Sidewalks End is honored to be the exclusive pre and post-tour operator. Our curated tours offer a deeper dive into Oaxaca’s cultural and culinary secrets, allowing you to extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in the magic of this extraordinary region. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, visiting artisanal workshops, or tasting the local delicacies, our tours are designed to complement your festival experience and make your visit to Oaxaca truly unforgettable.

Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival – Discover Mexico’s gastronomic capital

Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival: