Night of the Radishes

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Night of the Radishes (Spanish: Noche de Rábanos) is an annual event held on December 23 in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico. The event centers around the carving of oversized radishes (Raphanus sativus) to create scenes that are often nativity-themed or depict other aspects of Mexican culture and folklore.

History

The tradition of the Night of the Radishes dates back to the colonial period when Spanish settlers introduced the radish to Mexico. The event began to take shape in the late 19th century when local farmers started carving radishes to attract customers during the Christmas market. In 1897, the mayor of Oaxaca declared December 23 as the official Night of the Radishes, making it an annual event.

The Event

The Night of the Radishes takes place in the Zócalo, the main square of Oaxaca. Participants, including professional artists and local families, spend days or even weeks preparing their radish sculptures. The radishes used for the event are specially grown to be larger than typical radishes, allowing for more intricate designs.

The competition is divided into several categories:

• Traditional
• Free Theme
• Children's Category

Judges evaluate the entries based on creativity, originality, and the level of detail. Winners receive cash prizes and recognition.

Cultural Significance

The Night of the Radishes is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of Oaxacan culture and community. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year, both locals and tourists, contributing to the local economy and promoting cultural heritage.

Related Events

In addition to the radish carving, the event includes other festivities such as:

• Christmas market
• Fireworks
• Folk dance performances
• Live music

See Also

• Oaxaca
• Christmas in Mexico
• Nativity scene
• Folk art