Night of the radishes – Oaxaca Mexico
And you thought that radishes are only added to salad, - think again!
I must admit that on occasions I have been known to cut through the small round radishes we get in the UK, paring them into small segments – but not quite to the bottom, then putting them in a bowl of iced water and wait for them to open into ‘flowers’. Cookery lesson over for today…..
My artistic efforts are absolutely nothing by comparison with what you will see on ‘La Noche de Rabanos’ – night of the radishes.
This event is held on 23rd December every year, its origins are unknown, but researchers do know that on Christmas Eve in the 19th century markets sold varieties of vegetables and dried fish. Vendors vied for trade by decorating their stalls with sculpted radish figures that were further adorned with onions, turnips and flowers. The most interesting ones were purchased to the festive tables of homes on Christmas Eve.
The name Noche de Rabanos started in 1908, in 1922 radish and flower stands were placed in front of the Cathedral. Although the event only lasts a few hours it is an amazing spectacle drawing a vast number of visitors.
Months of preparation are involved, from growing the radishes (long, heavy ones, which can grow up to 2 feet and can weigh as much as 5 to 10 pounds, not the variety that you would put in the middle of a salad), working out designs –which can only be made a few days before the pageant when the radishes are harvested.
Amazing scenes are carved into them, imagine the skirt of a dancing figure made from the red peel, so intricate they can look like material. Whole tableau’s depicting the nativity; radish churches, trees, animal, and people. Embellished with dried grasses, cornhusks and dried flowers the results are spectacular. Cash prizes are given for the best exhibits, and children can join a workshop early in the day to learn the skill it takes to produce these artistic masterpieces.
As the sun sets a single line queue forms to weave its way in front of each lighted exhibit. Out door café’s throng with visitors enjoying a meal, local vendors set up their shops with local goodies, it’s a wonderful night out with everyone enjoying the celebratory atmosphere; a firework display ends the evening – a magical start to the festive season.
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