I'm a young, Spanish-speaking woman planning a solo month-long trip to Mexico, starting in Mexico City and working my way south and east out to the tip of the peninsula. I'm currently considering flying in to Mexico City on December 27th, doing a few day trips, being in Mexico City for New Years eve & day, heading to Oaxaca on Jan 2nd or 3rd, and continuing on from there. My end date is firm but I'm thinking I might like a little bit more time in Mexico, which means arriving earlier. I'm fine being away from home/family on Christmas, but I'm worried that the city might be pretty shut down. As far as new years goes, I was thinking it could be fun to be in Mexico City for fireworks, but Oaxaca could also have something fun going on. I know that this is a busy vacation time so I would be sure to book hostels in advance for the holidays.

Any thoughts or advice on spending Christmas in Mexico City and New Years Eve/day in Oaxaca?

We spent Xmas/NY's in 1999. Had a great time but spent NYE at or Hotel, The Majestic, with dinner on the roof then observing the fête on the plaza from our 8th floor balcony.
Christmas dinner was at an excellent restaurant located in a old mansion about 3 block from our hotel. Unfortunately their name escapes me.

As a young person I spent the two holidays in both places. I had the same pleasurable experience as Stewbear. However I would definitely recommend that unless you have friends in Mexico city you spend both holidays in Oaxaca.

It's a truly wonderful place to spend those holidays and small enough that you'll meet up with other people. I am wondering if they still have the Radish Festival at that time. Fantastic.

I have been in Oaxaca over Christmas and it can be quite cold. I recommend finding a hotel very close to the jardin so that you can enjoy the activities at night withour worrying about getting back to your hotel(it gets dark early at that time of the year and we found it difficult to get taxis). Book early because places fill up quickly. I love the Majestic Hotel in Mexico City and have also enjoyed watching festivities in the plaza across the way. However, given your age and that you are travelling on your own, I suggest you spend the holidays in Puerto Escondido on the coast. The weather is sure to be warm, there will be lots of young people, it has the best sunsets. A grand way to welcome in another year.

I would really reommend Oaxaca City at that time. It is great and lots of activities. As you note, you will need to book early. Days are very pleasant, and as far as being cold, depends where you are from. Evenings can be a bit chilly but a sweater or light jacket usually handles it nicely. There are multiple places to stay downdown within walking distance to the Zocalo.

Hope I'm not too late to make a comment. Rosentej, Oaxaca is still a pretty small city, but with lots going on in December. I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time here & will find people you can interact with. There are sure to be fireworks, so don't worry about that!

Here's a look at Oaxaca's Abastos Market last year, in the days leading up to Christmas: http://anyportinastorm.proboards.com...ad=3487&page=1 -- it's a fun thing to do for your senses.

And here is a page outlining all the special activities in December: http://www.christmas-in-oaxaca.com/