A mayor in southern Mexico symbolically “married” a female caiman in a colorful annual ritual believed to bring prosperity, abundance, good harvests, and plentiful fishing to the community.
The ceremony took place in San Pedro Huamelula, a town in Oaxaca state, where the symbolic marriage between the town mayor and the alligator-like reptile has been practiced for more than 230 years. The tradition is rooted in the union of two Indigenous cultures in Oaxaca, the Chontal and the Huave.
During the ceremony, Mayor Daniel Gutierrez took part in the ritual with the caiman, known locally as “princess girl.” The reptile was dressed in a white wedding gown and paraded through town as residents danced to festive music.
The caiman represents a Huave princess, while the mayor represents a Chontal king. According to local legend, a royal marriage between the two groups helped end a long-standing conflict, making the annual ritual a symbol of peace, unity, and harmony with nature.
“For us, it’s a ritual in which we ask mother earth and our creator for abundance in our harvests, fishing, and every product our region can offer,” town resident Luis Manuel Lopez said.
The celebration spans three days of music, dance, and cultural displays as part of the patron saint festivities in honor of San Pedro Apostol. The caiman is dressed in several traditional outfits, including colorful regional clothing and floral headpieces, before the symbolic wedding is held before townspeople.
Gutierrez said the tradition continues to draw attention to the town’s rich culture.
“Huamelula is so rich in tradition and culture that today, like every year, Huamelula is in the eyes of the world,” he said.