Dia de la Samaritana in Oaxaca: Uncover the meaning behind this tradition

Photo: The Oaxaca Tourism Secretariat Facebook

The Dia de la Samaritana (Good Samaritan Day) is one of Oaxaca’s most charming and anticipated traditions. During this celebration, anyone walking through the city can cool off with delicious flavored waters. Discover the story behind this beloved festivity.

Held every year on the fourth Friday of Lent, the Dia de la Samaritana turns temples, schools, private homes, and even offices into welcoming spaces offering refreshing drinks to both locals and visitors.

In 2026, the fourth Friday of Lent falls on March 13th 2026.

This unique festivity blends deep religious devotion with the warmth and generosity of Oaxacan culture — all brought to life through a colorful array of traditional drinks. Some of the “aguas frescas” offered on this day include:

• Maize
• Tamarind
• Horchata
• Prickly pear
• Lime
• Chilacayote
• Black sapote
• Tejate

During this celebration, the streets come alive. Large clay pots, flower-adorned arches — especially with vibrant bougainvillea — and joyful crowds create a festive, colorful atmosphere enjoyed by both locals and tourists.

The celebration traditionally begins in the atriums of churches, where the aguas are handed out after the priest offers a blessing, usually around midday.

Where does this tradition come from?

Although many churches participate, the Day of the Samaritana is not exclusively a religious festivity.

According to Oaxaca’s city chronicler Jorge Bueno, “the tradition arrived in Oaxaca with the evangelizers in the 16th century, when flavored waters began to be distributed in temple courtyards. Women from local neighborhoods, as well as the iconic chinas oaxaqueñas, acted as godmothers of the event, offering horchata, lime, and chilacayote drinks in large clay pots,” he told México Desconocido.

What does “Samaritana” Mean?

The Royal Spanish Academy defines “samaritana” as someone who helps another selflessly—a meaning reflected in the biblical story in which Jesus asks a Samaritan woman for water at Jacob’s Well, and she offers it, expecting nothing in return.

The Day of the Samaritana is celebrated exclusively in Oaxaca and beautifully embodies the hospitality, generosity, and community spirit of its people.

Where to Stay for This Festivity

If you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca, make sure to book your stay at Quinta Real Oaxaca. This spectacular hotel is one of the best places to experience the state’s rich culture and traditions, thanks to its privileged location just a few minutes’ walk from the Historic Center.

Staying here is an experience of its own: Quinta Real Oaxaca is a 16th-century architectural jewel. Originally the Convent of Santa Catalina de Siena, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 for its historical and cultural significance.

Photo: Quinta Real Oaxaca

Being so close to the city center means you can easily return to the hotel to rest — and enjoy its refreshing bar options. At Las Bugambilias, you’ll find a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and more than 101 types of mezcal. For a more romantic setting, Las Novicias offers candlelit ambiance and live music on weekends.

If you’re craving something delicious, don’t miss El Refectorio, the hotel’s signature restaurant specializing in both international and Oaxacan cuisine.
You can make your reservation through the Camino Real app or at www.grupocaminoreal.com.