Mexican Holidays

Independence Day of Mexico

If you want to experience the celebration of the rich culture of Mexico, try going to the country during a holiday. There are numerous official Mexican holidays, both religious and cultural, that you can choose from.

A well-loved Mexican holiday is Candlemas, or Dia de la Candelaria, in February. Festivities include dances, processions and bullfights. The best places to visit during this time are Oaxaca and Jalapa.

Another festival in Mexico is Mardi Gras during Carnaval, which is celebrated before the Lenten season. Floats and parades populate the streets. Carnaval is best celebrated in La Paz, Veracruz and Mazatlan.

Semana Santa, or the Holy Week, is a religious holiday celebrated all around Mexico in April. The period of Lent ends on Easter Sunday, where Mexicans, as a tradition, break eggs on top of the heads of other people.

Cinco de Mayo is another famous holiday in Mexico, with celebrations unique from anywhere else. As opposed to what a lot of people think, Cinco de Mayo is not the Independence Day of Mexico.

September 16th marks Mexico’s Independence Day. Based on history, this was the day that Father Miguel Hidalgo announced Mexico’s independence from Spain.

All Saint’s Day, known as Dia de los Muertos, is also an important holiday in Mexico in November. Catholics combine modern Catholic beliefs with older Pre-Columbian traditions to honor the dead members of the family. Various offerings, such as candles, flowers and food, are also made. This is one of the most celebrated holidays in Mexico.

If you're planning a trip to Aguascalientes, try to coincide with the exciting San Marcos Fair in April.

Of course, Christmas is also a popular holiday in Mexico. Celebrated in December, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Every home sets up a nativity scene. On Christmas Eve, the Christmas Eve meal, or Noche Buena, is eaten. The usual Noche Buena food includes tamales and champurrado. A piñata party may also be done for the children, with the piñata to be broken on Christmas Day itself.

If you decide to go to Mexico on a holiday, try to research on some basic history of the holiday and common activities done during that time. This will surely make your time in Mexico more enjoyable and meaningful!