The long-awaited 3er Encuentro de Cocineras Tradicionales de Oaxaca (3rd Gathering of Traditional Oaxacan Cooks) opened yesterday in the Centro Cultural y de Convenciones de Oaxaca (CCCO) — the new convention center.
While not nearly as convenient for yours truly as the previous two, which were held only a block away in the Plaza de la Danza, the Cocineras event had rapidly outgrown the old space and this site was more than adequate.
The gathering showcases 60 cooks, representing the 8 regions of the state, preparing more than 200 typical Oaxacan dishes — including desserts and beverages. Prices for each dish are reasonable and there is plenty of seating.
In addition to dining and drooling, there are cooking and craft workshops, educational conferences, and area where one can purchase kitchen and table related products, along with various packaged foodstuffs.
By the way, even the Zapotec God of Rain, Cocijo, blessed the opening with a much-needed downpour, but the rain didn’t dampen any spirits!
The Encuentro de Cocineras Tradicionales runs through Sunday, September 22, food stalls are open from 1:00 to 8:00 PM daily, and entrance is free.
Mexican Peso Converter
View From Casita Colibrí 
Beautiful coverage of the celebration I most want to attend. Couldn’t make it this year because of the timing. I hope they announce next year’s dates in time to make plans. I just HAVE to make it next year!!
Apparently, this year’s move from April to Sept. had to do with government funding issues. I’ll try to post the dates as soon as I know.
Wow!
You’ve got it! It’s a fabulous event.
I am positively drooling! And I am so amazed at how involved and appreciative in you are of the Oaxacan culture. Crossing my fingers that we can make it for next year (though looking at all your posts, it seems like there’s almost always something wonderful to see or attend, no matter the month!)
Thank you Judy! You are right, there is never a bad time to visit Oaxaca. 😉
Is this an annual event? We’d be very interested in attending a food event like this and could make plans for the next one.
Debbie, this was the third edition. So the Asociation of Tradicitional Cooks are already planning the 2020 one.
This was the 3rd annual Encuentro. The previous two were in April, and the change to Sept. apparently had to do with when government funding was released. I’ll try to post the dates as soon as I know.
Is this an expanded version of the event we all went to in the Danza a couple of years ago? I looks fantastic!
Not sure. The previous two were in late April. Just another reason for you to be here year ’round. 😉
Marilyn, Exactly. The Convention Center could have more and spacious stands, plus auditorium to celebrate the conferences, which were amazing like the one when Abigaíl Mendoza made chcocolate atole!
I need to attend some of the conferences/workshops next year!