Mexico is a country full of unique traditions and festivities that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Each holiday has its own series of recommended activities that allow locals and visitors to immerse themselves in Mexican culture and customs.
Three Kings Day (January 6)
Three Kings' Day, also known as Epiphany, celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men to Bethlehem to worship the baby Jesus. It is a long-awaited holiday, especially for children.
Recommended Activities
Rosca de Reyes: In almost all homes and gatherings the traditional Rosca de Reyes is broken, a sweet crown-shaped bread decorated with crystallized fruits. Figures of the Child Jesus are hidden inside the thread, and whoever finds them must organize a tamalada on February 2, Candlemas Day.
Three Wise Men in the markets: In the days before, it is common to see markets and squares full of toys and gifts. The children write letters to the Three Wise Men asking for their wishes, and the parents are in charge of buying these gifts.
Community events: Many cities organize events where the Three Wise Men give toys to children, accompanied by music, shows and recreational activities.
Candlemas Day (February 2)
Candlemas Day is a religious holiday that marks the end of Christmas celebrations. It is an occasion to get together as a family and enjoy delicious dishes.
Recommended Activities
Tamalada: If you found the figure of the Child Jesus in the Rosca de Reyes, you have to organize a tamalada. Tamales are a traditional dish made of corn dough filled with different ingredients and wrapped in corn husks.
Blessing of the Child Jesus: Families take their figures of the Child God to the church to be blessed. This tradition is deeply rooted in many communities.
Community celebrations: In some locations, fairs and cultural events are held where you can enjoy dances, music and other cultural manifestations.
Carnival (February or March)
Carnival in Mexico is a celebration full of joy, music and colors, which precedes Lent. Each region of the country has its own carnival traditions.
Recommended Activities
Parades and troupes: The streets are filled with parades with decorated floats, costumed people and dance troupes. Cities like Veracruz and Mazatlán are famous for their spectacular carnivals.
Dances and parties: During Carnival, dances and parties are organized in squares and community centers. Music is an essential part, with genres such as salsa, merengue and cumbia.
Local gastronomy: Take the opportunity to try the typical food of the region where you are celebrating Carnival. Mexican snacks such as tacos, gorditas and tamales are unmissable.
Holy Week and Easter (March or April)
Holy Week is one of the most important religious celebrations in Mexico. The passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is commemorated with various liturgical and cultural activities.
Recommended Activities
Processions: Solemn processions are held in many cities and towns. The Procession of Silence in San Luis Potosí and that of Taxco are especially notable.
Passion Representations: In Iztapalapa, Mexico City, one of the largest and most emotional representations of the Passion of Christ takes place, with thousands of participants and spectators.
Trips to magical towns: Take advantage of your rest days to visit some of the Magical Towns of Mexico, where you will find unique festivities and traditions.
Children's Day (April 30)
Children's Day is a celebration dedicated to the little ones, with special activities and events throughout the country.
Recommended Activities
Festivals and fairs: Many municipalities organize festivals and fairs with games, shows and recreational activities for children.
Parks and entertainment centers: Visit amusement parks, zoos and aquariums, which usually have special promotions and activities for this date.
Crafts and games at home: Organize an afternoon of crafts, games and movies at home to celebrate with the children in a fun and family-friendly way.
Mother's Day (May 10)
Mother's Day is one of the most emotional holidays in Mexico. It is celebrated with various tributes and displays of affection towards mothers.
Recommended Activities
Special breakfast or lunch: Prepare or take your mother to a special breakfast or lunch at her favorite restaurant. Traditional Mexican dishes such as mole, chiles en nogada or tamales are delicious options.
Flowers and gifts: Flowers, especially roses and carnations, are a traditional gift on this date. Accompany them with a letter or a personalized detail.
Cultural events: Attend concerts, plays or exhibitions dedicated to mothers. Many cultural centers and theaters have special programming.
Father's Day (third Sunday in June)
Father's Day is an opportunity to celebrate and honor fathers and father figures in Mexico.
Recommended Activities
Barbecues and barbecues: Organize a barbecue at home or in a park. Steaks, sausages, and corn are popular options.
Sports and outdoor activities: Enjoy an afternoon of sports or outdoor activities such as soccer, fishing or a walk in nature.
Personalized gifts: Surprise your father with a personalized gift, such as a framed photograph, a book or an item related to his hobbies.
Independence Day (September 15-16)
Independence Day is one of the most important holidays in Mexico. It is celebrated with parades, civic events and an explosion of patriotism.
Recommended Activities
The Cry of Independence: On the night of September 15, go to the main square of your city to witness the Cry of Independence. The event includes fireworks, music and a big celebration.
Civic and military parades: On September 16, attend the civic and military parades held throughout the country. Mexico City is home to one of the most impressive.
Traditional food: Enjoy typical dishes such as pozole, chiles en nogada, tostadas and tamales. Accompany the meal with drinks such as tequila or mezcal.
Day of the Dead (November 1-2)
The Day of the Dead is one of the most emblematic traditions of Mexico. It is celebrated with altars, offerings and various cultural activities.
Recommended Activities
Altars and offerings: Visit the altars and offerings that are placed in homes, schools and squares. Each altar is decorated with marigold flowers, candles, photographs and the favorite dishes of the deceased.
Cemeteries: Go to cemeteries, where families decorate the graves of their loved ones and spend the night among music and memories. The cemeteries of Janitzio and Mixquic are especially famous for their celebrations.
Cultural events: Participate in parades such as the Catrinas Mega Procession in Mexico City or the Skull Festival in Aguascalientes. In addition, attend plays, exhibitions and workshops related to this holiday.
Christmas and New Year (December 24-31)
The Christmas and New Year festivities in Mexico are filled with family and religious traditions, as well as community celebrations.
Recommended Activities
Posadas: From December 16 to 24, participate in the posadas, a series of celebrations that recreate the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary. The posadas include songs, piñatas, food and typical drinks such as punch.
Christmas Eve Dinner: On December 24, families gather for a special dinner. Typical dishes include turkey, cod, romeritos and apple salad.
New Year's Eve: On the night of December 31, celebrate the New Year with a festive dinner, lucky grapes, and fireworks. In some places, dances and parties are organized that last until dawn.
Mexico is a country with incomparable cultural wealth, and its festivities offer a unique window into its history, traditions and community spirit. Participating in these celebrations is not only a way to honor Mexican customs, but also an opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of its people. Regardless of the time of year, there is always something special to discover and enjoy in Mexico.