Zócalo Blog

For Lolo, it is important to highlight the astonishing art created by artisans in Mexico. This week, we want to highlight the stunning Otomí work from Hidalgo, México. Hidalgo is unique as it is birthplace for tenangos one of the most traditional pieces of Mexican embroidery and art. These embroideries are made by using multicolored threads filled with inspirations of images of flora and fauna found in the region, creating animals and flowers that seem almost fantasy-like. 

January 6^th is known as Día de Los Tres Reyes Magos, or Three Kings Day. In Mexico this is (almost) the last day of celebrating holidays and is also traditional to spend it surrounded with friends and family and a table full of food, specifically a delicious rosca de reyes. Even tough it has a Christian religious history behind it and with its origins in Spain, Día de Reyes in Mexico is more about the warmth brought on by getting together as a family during these festivities. That is the reason why all people in Mexico and/or of Mexican descent around the world are familiar with the tradition behind the rosca de reyes and how hiding the Baby Jesus figurine implicates more togetherness.

On the eve of the most expected new year, 2021, we wanted to share with you all reflections and a brief conversation with Julián, Luis, and Manuel, the three founding brothers from Lolo. Overall we cannot help but to be thankful to you all for bringing so much light into our lives and for helping us in our efforts to support artisanal communities. Here are five questions and the answers each of them had to share, including a final message for everyone who has shown their incredible support.

Native to Mexico, the Poinsetttia flower, Euphorbia pulcherrima (or Christmas flower, flor de navidad, nochebuena, pastora, pascuero, Pascua, and Estrella federal) is the one flower you think of when thinking about Christmas. Bright crimsom red, with its unique star-shape, this beautiful flower is thought to be endemic to the town of Taxco, Guerrero and it fills us with pride knowing that Lolo and this flower share the same roots.

The recipes that we have selected start with our favorite seasonal beverage: ponche, a traditional drink in Mexico served during posadas and Christmas dinners. The next one is the customary bacalao. You can enjoy this delicious dish as a main course during the dinner, the best part is that the following day you can put it inside a bolillo or telera to create the famous “Tortas de Bacalao” for the “recalentado”. Finally, one of our favorites desserts that is also a popular street food, buñuelos, eating this messy and crunchy sweet is a fun experience on itself, just be mindful of the crumbs!

The work of the entire community of Santo Tomás Jalieza focuses on artisanal products, mainly those that are created by using an ancient technique called Telar de Cintura, or backstrap loom. In a short but sweet conversation, artisans have asked us to share some pictures and words of gratitude directed to you, that with your support contribute to their community’s well being and appreciation for their heritage.

Christmas in Mexico today is celebrated with the many known customs and traditions that are undeniably present in the US, such as Santa Claus, Christmas trees, and festive lights all around. However, there is also an abundance of typical traditions that are unique to Mexico and its history of interaction between different cultures. While most are a reflection of Mexican culture where there is traditional food at the table, parties, and laughter, we wanted to break these festivities down to reflect how a religious holiday has become a cultural staple for people in Mexico, who celebrate many of these events despite their religion.

Thanksgiving, the same as other traditional gatherings during this year, seems to be looking a lot different for 2020. For us and many others, this holiday is an opportunity to celebrate together with our loved ones, taking in the warmth and joy that this brings us. However, as positive cases are on a rise, we also need to consider the risk there is if these gatherings occur in the same way they typically do.

In the spirit of Fall and thanksgiving, we have decided to gather our three favorite recipes made with pumpkin for all to try. As Mexicans, food is a symbol of unity, family, and knowledge, as most recipes are passed down from generation to generation.

Oaxaca is the most diverse state in Mexico, full of overwhelming richness where the eye (and palate!) can see. We have put together a list that was difficult to create, as we believe there are plenty more reasons to do so. However, in an effort to look forward to the days of safe travels, here are our top reasons to visit Oaxaca, in case you are not convinced yet

Contrary to popular belief, Day of the Dead is not the Mexican Halloween. There are similarities between both celebrations worth looking into, though. Similarly, there are differences, such as el Día de los Muertos being a three-day event and aiming to honor the deceased loved ones. 

One of the many great things that Dia de Muertos brings is the food. For those who are new to this celebration, or simply are just interested in recreating some Mexican cuisine at the comfort of your own home, here are two of the most popular and authentic Day of the Dead recipes: Tamales and Pan De Muerto.

La Ofrenda, An Incomparable Beauty Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) is almost here! And what's a Día de los Muertos without an ofrenda? Ofrendas are essential and one of the most...

When the pandemic hit, it took all of us by surprise, forcing us to shift the way in which we do everything. Surprisingly, though, this unfortunate situation also opened up many opportunities. Read about how artisans in Oaxaca are giving back to their community using the income from products you buy from us.

Lucha libre is one of Mexico’s many long-standing gems! The colorful masks and outfits that accompany the roaring crowd is simply incomparable to other wrestling sports and events. While it’s entertaining to watch, it’s also worthwhile to learn a little more about, too.