Night of the Radishes

La Noche de los Rabanos is an event unique to Oaxaca that takes place every December 23. A special type of radish is grown just for this event, which is all about depicting culture, legends, or daily life with carved radishes. Booths are set up all around the zócalo, and early in the morning people begin to construct their scenes. Some carving can be completed beforehand, but much must be done on the spot. We enjoy going at this time of day because it's fun to watch and there are not too many people. 
Two other categories are included, one is called "flor inmortal" where the scenes are all made of dried flowers (most look like what we call strawflowers) and the other is where everything is made of corn husks. In all three categories everything, including whatever is used for fastening (toothpicks) must be natural materials. No plastic or wire or anything! There is a judging with prizes later in the evening. 
One of the most amazing things about the artwork is the attention to tiny details. Children have their own special category, and it is fun to see the intensity with which they work. Children here learn creative art in many forms at a very young age.