Night of the Radishes Festival

CHAN:
In Mexico Oaxacans celebrate Christmas with an interesting festival called the "Night of the Radishes." Every year the local artisans carve elaborate figures out of radishes. Let's take a look.


STORY:
Radishes here in Oaxaca have found their way out of salad bowls and onto display tables. Where the humble vegetable is transformed into an elaborate work of art. From grasshoppers to saints, you name it the artists can carve it.

[Victor Ruiz Chavez, Radish Artist]:
"Working on the figures and being with the radishes gets a lot of attention. It is very exciting to be here today."

This unique and old celebration began more than 100 years ago is now an annual event.

[Beatriz Gonzalez, Tourist]:
"It is really a beautiful thing. The Oaxacans are excellent artists."

The Spanish first brought radishes to Mexico in the 16th century.

Legend has it that Spanish monks at that time encouraged local farmers to carve radishes. This, they say, was to draw attention at the Christmas vigil market on December 23.

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Howto & Style

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• radishes
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• mexico
• oaxacans
• christmas