Benito Juárez Market | Oaxaca

The Benito Juárez Market (Mercado Benito Juárez) is one of the most popular and vibrant markets in Oaxaca City, Mexico. Known for its colorful atmosphere and wide variety of goods, this bustling market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors, crafts, and culture of Oaxaca. Here's a detailed look at the Benito Juárez Market:

1. Historical Background:

The Benito Juárez Market is named after Benito Juárez, the famous Oaxacan-born president of Mexico who served from 1858 to 1872. Juárez is celebrated for his efforts to modernize Mexico and for his advocacy for indigenous rights.

The market has a long history and has been a central gathering place in Oaxaca City for decades. It is located in the heart of the city, near other key attractions like the Zócalo and Templo de Santo Domingo.

Originally, the market began as an open-air market and over the years has developed into a large, permanent indoor space, offering a more organized shopping experience but still retaining the authentic, local flavor.

2. What You’ll Find at the Market:

The Benito Juárez Market is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in Oaxacan culture through its local products, foods, crafts, and artifacts.

a. Oaxacan Cuisine:

One of the main attractions of the Benito Juárez Market is its incredible selection of local foods and ingredients. The market is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from street food to fresh produce and traditional Oaxacan staples.

Mole: Oaxaca is famous for its mole, a rich and complex sauce made from chili peppers, chocolate, nuts, and spices. You’ll find vendors selling all kinds of mole pastes, which are the base for preparing these delicious sauces.

Tlayudas: Often described as Oaxacan pizza, tlayudas are large, crispy tortillas topped with cheese, meat, avocado, and salsa. Many vendors in the market prepare tlayudas right in front of you on hot grills.

Oaxacan Cheese: The market is a great place to find quesillo (Oaxacan string cheese), a key ingredient in many local dishes.

Mezcal: Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, a distilled spirit made from agave. You can find a variety of mezcal bottles, from traditional to artisanal, sold by local producers.

b. Fresh Produce:

The market is filled with stalls offering a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables typical of the region. You’ll find exotic fruits, chile peppers, corn, and herbs.

Many of the market’s food vendors also sell freshly made salsas, pickled vegetables, and other condiments that are essential to Oaxacan cooking.

c. Handicrafts and Art:

The Benito Juárez Market is also home to a wide range of Oaxacan handicrafts, including handwoven textiles, embroidered clothing, ceramics, wooden carvings, and black pottery (known as barro negro).

Textiles: Oaxacan artisans are famous for their intricate embroidered blouses, skirts, and shawls, often made using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.

Wooden Carvings: You’ll find colorful wooden animals, particularly wooden alebrijes, which are intricately carved and painted creatures from Oaxacan folklore.

Handmade Jewelry: Many stalls feature silver jewelry, as Oaxaca is well-known for its silver craftsmanship.

d. Traditional Artifacts:

The market also sells various traditional Mexican items, such as Day of the Dead figurines, woven baskets, masks, and candles, which are often used in local rituals and festivals.

3. Vibrant Atmosphere:

The Benito Juárez Market is always bustling with activity. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the aromas of freshly prepared food, the colorful displays of goods, and the sounds of vendors calling out their wares, creates an energetic and lively environment.

The market is a great place to experience local culture up close, interact with friendly vendors, and discover the region’s culinary and artistic traditions.

While the market can be busy, it is not as tourist-focused as some of the larger markets in Mexico, making it a more authentic experience for those who want to get a true sense of local life.

4. Cultural Importance:

The Benito Juárez Market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a key part of the Oaxacan community. It is a center of social life, where locals gather to buy fresh ingredients, share meals, and engage in everyday commerce.

The market also plays a role in preserving traditional Oaxacan culture by supporting local artisans and farmers. Many of the goods sold in the market are handmade or locally sourced, contributing to the sustainability of regional industries.

During festivals and holidays, the market becomes even more vibrant, with special offerings and decorations for events such as Guelaguetza, Day of the Dead, and Christmas.

5. Practical Information:

Location: The Benito Juárez Market is centrally located in the heart of Oaxaca City, just a few blocks from the Zócalo (main square) and other major attractions like the Templo de Santo Domingo and the Museo de las Culturas.

Opening Hours: The market is typically open daily, from early in the morning until late afternoon, though it’s busiest during mid-morning to lunch hours. Some stalls might open earlier or stay open later depending on the season.

Bargaining: While many items in the market are fixed-price, it’s common to negotiate for handicrafts and artisanal goods. Don’t hesitate to ask for a discount, especially if you’re buying multiple items.

Cash: It’s recommended to bring cash (in Mexican pesos) when shopping in the market, as many smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.

Language: While many vendors speak Spanish, a few may also speak Zapotec or other indigenous languages. Basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in communicating, though many Oaxacans are welcoming and helpful.

6. Conclusion:

The Benito Juárez Market is one of Oaxaca’s most iconic markets and a must-visit for anyone traveling to the city. It’s a place where you can experience the authentic culture, delicious food, and traditional crafts of Oaxaca. Whether you're looking to sample local delicacies, purchase handmade crafts, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the Benito Juárez Market offers a true taste of Oaxaca’s rich heritage. It’s the perfect spot for both visitors and locals to come together, celebrate Oaxacan culture, and enjoy the flavors of this beautiful region.