Question 1

What are the best things to do in Oaxaca this weekend?

Accepted Answer

Oaxaca packs its best energy into three nights. Start Friday on Calle Murguía and Porfirio Díaz for live music and mezcalerías. Spend Saturday morning at the Mercado de Abastos, afternoons at Santo Domingo and the Ethnobotanical Garden, and evenings bar-hopping the historic center. Sundays are slower — open-air markets, gallery visits, and the Zócalo's informal scene. Check the event grid above for confirmed events this weekend.

Question 2

What is there to do in Oaxaca on a Friday night?

Accepted Answer

Oaxaca's Friday night scene centers on the historic center. Calle Murguía and Porfirio Díaz host live music in mezcalerías and bars. The Zócalo has informal gatherings and occasional free concerts. Gallery openings often happen on Friday evenings. Rooftop terraces are active — look for events at La Mezcaloteca, In Situ, and El Destilado.

Question 3

What should I do in Oaxaca on a Saturday?

Accepted Answer

Saturday is Oaxaca's best day. Start with the Mercado de Abastos (the largest indigenous market — go before noon). Spend the afternoon at the Santo Domingo complex, the Ethnobotanical Garden (guided tours available), and galleries on Macedonio Alcalá. By evening, the mezcal bar scene is in full swing — join a tasting tour or find a live music venue.

Question 4

What is open in Oaxaca on a Sunday?

Accepted Answer

On the first Sunday of each month, all INAH sites including Monte Albán are free for Mexican nationals. The Zócalo has morning events and community gatherings. Many galleries and the Textile Museum are open. The Sunday market in Tlacolula (30 km away) is one of the largest indigenous markets in Mexico and well worth the trip.

Question 5

Are there free things to do in Oaxaca this weekend?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the Zócalo hosts free concerts and performances regularly. The Textile Museum of Oaxaca is permanently free. Macedonio Alcalá has free galleries. On the first Sunday of the month, Monte Albán and other INAH sites are free for Mexican nationals. See queondaoaxaca.com/en/free-things-to-do-oaxaca for the full guide.

Question 6

What events are happening in Oaxaca this weekend?

Accepted Answer

The event calendar at the top of this page is updated every hour with confirmed events submitted by local organizers and approved by the Qué Onda Oaxaca editorial team. Events include live music, cultural festivals, art openings, food markets, mezcal tastings, and community events across Oaxaca de Juárez.

Question 7

How far in advance should I plan my Oaxaca weekend?

Accepted Answer

Most events in Oaxaca don't require advance tickets — just show up. For popular concerts or mezcal tasting tours, check the event page for ticket links. During Guelaguetza (July) and Day of the Dead (late October–November), hotels book up 3–6 months in advance. For a regular weekend, booking accommodation 2–4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient.

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Things to do in Oaxaca this weekend

Things to Do in Oaxaca This Weekend

Friday — Friday, September 4

Saturday — Saturday, September 5

Sunday — Sunday, September 6