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The modern Guelaguetza includes dances, costumes and music from all the regions of the state. There is also a fair where a wide variety of artisans and excellent cuisine are showcased. Celebrations commence on the previous Saturday with las Calendas, a parade lead by las Marmotas (large paper lanterns), los Monigotes (enormous puppets maneuvered interiorly by people), and the dancers from all seven regions.

On Sunday, the Queen of the Guelaguetza is chosen to represent the Goddess Centéotl. The queen is selected by her ethnic roots and also by her knowledge of customs and traditions. That night, the Bani Stui Gulal (Repetition of Ancient Times) is reenacted to narrate the history of the festivities throughout the centuries.

At five in the morning on Friday, the traditional “Mañanitas” are played at the bottom of the hill accompanied by pre-Hispanic instruments such as chirimias (a flute-like instrument) and drums; all while fireworks illuminate the sky summoning the people to participate in the festivities. It is then that the legend of Donaji, the last Zapotec princess who died to save her people from the Mixtecos. The dance festival concludes with la Danza de la Plumas (Dance of the Feathers), a variation of the pre-Hispanic rituals honoring the Mexicas gods of corm and war.

The regional costumes, dances, music, crafts, cuisine and traditions, all make the Guelaguetza one of the most festive, colorful and popular cultural Mexican celebrations.