Alebrijes: Paint and Sip

This is our original alebrije-painting experience, featuring our favorite dynamic alebrije family from the village of Tilcajete, where this artisan tradition has been handed down for several generations.

Join us in learning about the history and culture of this iconic colorful art form. Alex, our fourth generation alebrije artist, will walk you through each stage of the process that transformed your chosen alebrije from a tree in the foothills of his village to our table at Tlayudona. You will get to sip on locally-harvested specialty coffee and wild ancestral mezcal amongst friends while you paint your alebrije.

This is the perfect hands-on activity for those of you who want to remain in the city center, but who also want an authentic dose of rural Oaxacan charm, colors, and flavors! You’ll get the basics–color theory, design, symbolism, and some anecdotal information. Discover the history of Oaxaca’s most renowned alebrije village, its craft, and the significance that these vibrant creatures hold today while creating lasting memories and connections. We can’t wait to see you!

What to Expect

Step One: Write to us and request this experience, telling us how many people are in your small group and what your dates of availability are.

Step Two: Once we’ve found a date that works for our hosts and for your group, we will send you a Paypal request for a deposit for your experience or an invitation to sign up using our website calendar. (Feel free to check our calendar for the experiences we currently have confirmed!) *

*Your experience will be open to additional folks to join unless your group is composed of 6+ people or you reserve a private experience at an additional cost.

You can see our refund policy here.

Step Three: We will meet you at Tlayudona, located inside the Plaza San Cristóbal in street M. Bravo 210 local C, Centro. 

Experience Includes

• Oaxacan Coffee or Mezcal and a snack to munch on
• Paint, brushes, smock, and any other materials necessary to paint your alebrije
• Your choice of a 3-5 inch alebrije
• Instruction by a master alebrije-maker from Tilcajete
• A print-out of patterns/colors to guide you while you paint

Logistics and Cost

Time Involvement: 2-3 Hours

Transportation: None. Held at Tlayudona (210C M. Bravo Inside the Plaza San Cristobal)

Costs and Minimums: 1,500 MXN per person

Ask about discounts for children!

Children up to 12: 1,300 MXN

There is a minimum of 3 people for this experience.