24 de Diciembre
6th Poniente between 2nd and 3rd Norte S/N, Ocozocoautla de Espinosa
The Dance of Shepherds and Shepherdesses is a deeply rooted traditional expression of the cultural and religious identity of Ocozocoautla de Espinosa, performed annually on December 24 and 31. This dance symbolically represents the shepherds’ journey to the manger to worship the Baby Jesus — a choreography blending Christian devotion with Zoque elements, such as the phrase Achipondojó, meaning “we are one with the Child.”
The dancers, adorned in colorful attire reminiscent of shepherds, wear hats decorated with flowers, ribbons, and mirrors. Their graceful movements simulate the march and adoration, accompanied by live traditional music performed with drums and reed flutes.
The highlight of the procession is the visit to local churches, such as the Parish of San Juan Bautista, where the dancers offer their steps as an expression of faith and devotion to the Christ Child. In each temple, they perform a brief ceremonial dance in front of the altar, accompanied by prayers and songs. The day concludes with a joyful return to the starting point — a celebration of tradition, spirituality, and Zoque cultural pride.
Hours: 1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Additional Information: Visitors are encouraged to arrive independently using public transportation and to wear comfortable clothing.
Recommended for: All ages
Accessibility & Services: Parking is available near the starting point; the city provides wheelchair-accessible ramps.
Cost: Free of charge
The dancers, adorned in colorful attire reminiscent of shepherds, wear hats decorated with flowers, ribbons, and mirrors. Their graceful movements simulate the march and adoration, accompanied by live traditional music performed with drums and reed flutes.
The highlight of the procession is the visit to local churches, such as the Parish of San Juan Bautista, where the dancers offer their steps as an expression of faith and devotion to the Christ Child. In each temple, they perform a brief ceremonial dance in front of the altar, accompanied by prayers and songs. The day concludes with a joyful return to the starting point — a celebration of tradition, spirituality, and Zoque cultural pride.
Hours: 1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Additional Information: Visitors are encouraged to arrive independently using public transportation and to wear comfortable clothing.
Recommended for: All ages
Accessibility & Services: Parking is available near the starting point; the city provides wheelchair-accessible ramps.
Cost: Free of charge
