One of the best ways to discover another culture is to experience their holiday festivities. Immersing yourself in the excitement and traditions that come with national holidays will instantly give you a newfound respect for the culture. Mexico's national holidays are well known around the globe and even celebrated in other countries. However, if you want a feel for the real thing, it's best to book a trip to Mexico and experience it first-hand!
Easter
In Mexico, Easter celebrations last for two weeks and it is the most important holiday in Mexican culture. Semana Santa or Holy Week (Palm Sunday to Easter) is celebrated with parades, reenactments, and unique local traditions that highlight the deep Catholic roots of the country. Business and schools are usually closed for both weeks. The second week is Pascua (Easter Sunday through the following Saturday). It is a happier time with festivities honoring the resurrection and spring. Most Mexicans take their family vacation during this time so beaches and other tourist destinations in the country are crowded.
Cinco de Mayo
Although Cinco de Mayo originated in Mexico it is not as widely celebrated there as it is in the United States. Cinco de Mayo commemorates a Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The City of Puebla does mark the week before with music and cultural events. On May 5, the Mexican Army units lead a parade of local people dressed in period costumes.
Dia de la Independencia
Independence Day in Mexico is September 16 and is a festival that marks the start of Mexico's decade-long war of independence against Spain. The festivities begin a week before September 16, with towns putting on art shows, concerts, parades, and dressing the streets in the national colors of green, white, and red. The celebration culminates in the local plazas at midnight on September 15 or El Grito, when a local functionary shouts "Viva Mexico!" signaling the start of the Independence Day celebrations on September 16. Street parties, fireworks, flowers, and flags mark this special day for the Mexican people.
Día de Muertos
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is one of Mexico's most celebrated holidays. In the United States, it is related to Halloween, but they are entirely separate! Celebrated from October 31 - November 2 each year, Day of the Dead is when families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drinks, and celebration. People decorate home altars across the country, have parades, and hold a graveside candlelight vigil for their deceased loved ones.
Las Posadas/Christmas
From December 16-24, all over Mexico, they reenact the quest of Mary and Joseph to find a place to rest before the birth of Jesus. Each evening, posadas or parades wind through the streets of towns large and small. Traditional songs are sung and pinatas are struck. The Christmas celebration culminates on Christmas Eve. In Mexico, children receive their gifts on Christmas Eve and large family meals are enjoyed before everyone heads to Midnight Mass. Christmas Day is a quiet time for families to gather and eat leftovers.
Celebrating an authentic Mexican holiday in Mexico is an experience you won’t soon forget! When you are ready to join the festivities, call or email us and we can help you book your Mexican holiday.