The Guelaguetza, or Los lunes del cerro (Mondays on the Hill) is an annual indigenous cultural event in Mexico that takes place in the city of Oaxaca, capital of the state of Oaxaca, as well as in nearby villages. The celebration centers on traditional dancing in costume in groups, often gender-separated groups, as is traditional,
and includes parades complete with indigenous walking bands, native food, and statewide artisanal crafts such as pre-hispanic style textiles.
Each costume (traje) and dance usually has a local indigenous historical and cultural meaning. Although the celebration is now an important tourist attraction,
it also retains deep cultural importance for the peoples of the state and is important for the continuing survival of these cultures.
This annual Guelaguetza took place at California State University, San Marcos for the sixteenth year.

These photos are of the Devil's Dance from the Oaxacan Coast

Click on the thumbnails to see a larger image.