Mexico is a beautiful place. A place where magic and history connect. It is a place full of Mexican traditions and culture where you can spend unforgettable moments with your friends and family.
Anyone who has been to Mexico and enjoyed authentic Mexican culture knows that Mexico has truly wonderful traditions. There is much to love about Mexican customs, the deep meaning and strong cultural roots of where they come from, complemented by all the warmth of Mexican hospitality and the deliciousness of its rich gastronomy.
From having a celebration to remember our loved ones who have left, to a week in which what you want is to be with your friends having a great time, full of music, dance, and color!
Here’s your list of the best Mexican holidays and traditions!
…you won’t want to miss out on any of the fun!
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Between March and April
Holy Week is a Catholic holiday based on Easter that begins on Palm Sunday and runs through Easter Sunday.
It has many religious celebrations that occur throughout the day. Still, for many people, the main focus of Easter is enjoying an extended vacation from work.
This vacation period is considered one of the best times of the year to go on vacation with friends and family.
There are many favorite destinations to enjoy this special holiday, such as Mexico City or Puerto Vallarta’s beaches. The atmosphere will be pleasant and full of life.
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is one of the most important dates in Mexican culture, commemorating Mexico’s victory over France in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Often, the rest of the world confuses Cinco de Mayo with Mexican Independence Day.
Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) is a celebration where Mexicans fill the streets with crafts, art, music, piñatas, food, and life.
On beaches like in Puerto Vallarta, they launch fireworks. You’ll find a vast celebration packed with parades, battle reenactments, and more!
Día De La Independencia (Independence Day)
September 16
Every year on September 16, Mexicans around the world celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day. It is one of the traditions that best represent the pride of being Mexican, and that is why every September is called the month of the nation.
On the night of September 15, Mexicans gather in the central square of each city known as the “Zócalo” or in their homes. Outside the country, Mexicans in different parts of the world do not let this day go by, and they also gather to celebrate.
The night’s main event is the famous “Grito de Independencia” simulating what Father Miguel Hidalgo did on September 16, 1810. The President of the Republic is in charge of making this representation at a national level. By far, one of the best Mexican traditions!
Día de Muertos (Day of The Dead)
October 31 to November 2
The Day of the Dead is a two-day celebration celebrated in Mexico. It is a party full of magic and folklore that dates back to pre-Columbian times to honor deceased family and friends.
The Day of the Dead is a celebratory event that includes food and drinks, dancing, bright colors, rituals, and offerings at the graves of loved ones.
Some families will decorate the graves of their deceased friends and relatives and even go to the cemetery to share a meal with them.
In addition, a delicious sweet bread called Pan de Muerto is made, which is used for offerings. You can also enjoy it with tamales or hot chocolate.
Legends say that on these days, the souls of the dead return to earth to share time with their living relatives.
The Traditional Pilgrimage to The Virgin of Guadalupe
December 12
One of the best celebrations you can experience is the celebration around Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico, also known as the Virgen de Guadalupe or the Virgin Mary.
In Puerto Vallarta, there is a traditional pilgrimage to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe that happens every year between December 1st and December 12th. The celebration marks a day of historical significance, when more than 400 years ago on December 12th, the Virgin appeared to San Juan Diego, a humble indigenous man, on the Tepeyac hill. After seeing Our Lady of Guadalupe, he converted to Christianity and spread the word of God.
During this day, churches and parishes see a significant influx of people seeking to participate in the celebration. In various parts of the country, thousands of people go on a pilgrimage to the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City.
Pilgrimages are journeys to a sacred place. Generally, they are made by people who want to celebrate the Virgin, the Mexican saints, Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus.
The Virgin of Guadalupe celebration is full of parties, posadas, and celebrations of all kinds. For example, in Puerto Vallarta, the streets downtown are infused with vibrant colors, dancers, music, and street food vendors.
As in all good traditions in Mexico, you can enjoy a lot of food, music, colors and an atmosphere full of life that you will surely love.
What are you waiting for! If you love good food and want to have a good time with people who will treat you like family, come to Mexico!
