Holidays & Observances in Mexico

Mexico is a Spanish-speaking country in Central America. There are many factors that have contributed to its diverse culture, starting with its rich history of indigenous civilizations. Mexico was dominated by intelligent and innovative civilizations for thousands of years before it was taken over by colonial powers. Some of the unique indigenous culture still remains, mixed together with European culture brought to Mexico by the Spanish. This mixture is very evident in many of Mexico’s holidays, which mix Roman Catholic traditions with indigenous ones. The most dramatically multicultural holiday is the Day of the Dead, which is celebrated on the day most Catholics celebrate All Saint’s Day. Mexico’s Day of the Dead is a much more upbeat holiday with colorful traditions and celebrations of both life and death. There is almost always some kind of celebration going on in Mexico, as many of the holidays last for days or weeks. Easter, for instance includes celebrations on every day of Holy Week, and the Christmas season does not traditionally end until Candlemas on February 2. Mexican holidays combine colorful traditions with traditional roots to make for unique festivities that are recognized around the world.