Trips & Travel Holidays in Mexico

Independence Day – September 16th

On Independence Day, people from Mexico commemorate the “Cry of Independence” or “Cry of Dolores” that Miguel Hidalgo made in the town of Dolores to stand against Spanish oppression. On this day, Mexicans put their flags up, attend parties and participate in celebrations. It is a day off from work; thus, most shops, businesses, banks, and other places are closed. Moreover, due to celebrations such as parades and marches, some streets are inaccessible to vehicles.

Revolution Day – November 14th

Revolution is one of the most significant patriotic holidays in Mexico, commemorating the beginning of the Mexican Revolution in 1910. It falls on the third Monday of November each year so that workers can enjoy a more extended break. During Revolution Day, people participate in marches, parades, and festivals organized in the country. On this day, businesses, shops, schools, and other institutions are mostly closed. Please note that some roads and streets in the cities may also remain closed for the duration of celebrations.

Christmas Day – December 25th

Mexicans of the Christian denomination spend Christmas Day similarly to other countries. This day is dedicated to commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ and meeting with family members. People gather to catch up on each other’s lives, eat a meal together, and get some rest. It is worth mentioning that Christmas celebrations in Mexico are not limited only to Christmas Day. They start from the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe on December 12th and last until the Three Kings Day on January 6th. Visiting Mexico during this time guarantees learning about lots of local customs and culture.

Other holidays observed in Mexico

Apart from all the celebrations described, there are a few other holidays widely observed in Mexico. Although they are not considered public holidays, people still celebrate them. Therefore, it is convenient to know them and stay aware that it might be better to withdraw from conducting any business or scheduling meetings at their duration.

Cinco de Mayo – May 5th

Cinco de Mayo, or Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, commemorates Mexican forces’ victory in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Celebrations are mostly held in the state of Puebla, where people can attend parades, listen to speeches, or watch reenactments of the battle.

Day of the Races – October 12th

Day of the Races, known in Mexico as Dia de la Raza or the Day of the Pluricultural Nation, aims to recognize and appreciate the country’s multicultural, multiethnic, and multilingual wealth. It is celebrated not only in Mexico but also in other Latin countries. This day, there are held parades, marches, and other activities meant to teach respect for all people and cultures.

All Souls’ Day – November 2nd

All Souls’ Day is one of the most important holidays in Mexico. It is also called the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos). In contrast to many other countries, Mexicans spend such a day happily, meeting with their families, often partying. Skeletons, coffins, and other symbols of this kind are frequently encountered and crucial for this holiday.

Moreover, people set up altars in their homes to honor their dead relatives. The altars are decorated with flowers, candles, photos, and food provided for the dead. Many people also gather on specially decorated for this day cemeteries to leave various objects on the graves, e.g., candles and flowers.

Lady of Guadalupe Day – December 12th

Lady of Guadalupe Day is a religious festival widely celebrated in Mexico. It is a day off for many organizations and some businesses, but not for all office workers. There are companies that, for example, organize meals for their employees on Lady of Guadalupe Day. The celebrations of the holiday start with a mass ceremony. Later, people can enjoy food or dance and music performances. Mexicans from all country regions gather in the Basilica of the Virgen of Guadalupe to participate in the ceremony.​