These are All the Mexican Public Holidays (A Month By Month Guide)
READY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MEXICO HOLIDAYS AND CELEBRATIONS?
You’re in the right place! This article includes the 10 Mexican public holidays you need to know about, as well as 11 extra holidays in Mexico that you’ll find interesting.
Living in Mexico since 2018, I’ve participated in my fair share of celebrations in Mexico — from spending Año Nuevo in Mexico City to taking part in Day of the Dead festivities in Oaxaca. Let me tell you, Mexicans know to party!
If you’re wondering, What is Mexico celebrating today? Or this month? This article lists all the days you need to add to your calendar.
From Mexico November holidays to May Mexican holidays, everything you need to know is right here — so let’s dive in!
All 10 Mexican Public Holidays
1. New Year’s Day (Año Nuevo) — January 1
📆 When: January 1
New Year’s Day, known in Mexico and Spanish-speaking countries as Año Nuevo (New Year), marks the beginning of the calendar year on January 1st.
🥳 Want to wish your Mexican friends a Happy New Year? You can tell them “Feliz Año Nuevo.”
As the kids are out of school and many workers get time off during the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s, families will often head to the beaches.
Mexico’s best beaches are generally PACKED at this time of year, as winter is the nicest time to get great weather on the beach.
For those who remain in the cities, New Year’s Eve is a festive public holiday celebrated across Mexico with fireworks, parties, and traditional foods.
However, it is not usually an all-night party holiday like in the U.S. In fact, it’s typically more of a family holiday than one you would spend out with friends.
Public celebrations with music, dancing, and countdowns take place in major cities, with the Zócalo in Mexico City hosting one of the largest gatherings.
Families and friends gather in their homes on New Year’s Eve to enjoy a late-night feast that includes special dishes like bacalao (salted cod fish), tamales, and lentil soup.
There are also some unique traditions for New Year’s in Mexico, like these:
🍇 Eating 12 grapes at midnight: Known as “Las doce uvas de la suerte” (The twelve grapes of luck), each grape symbolizes one hope or wish for the New Year.
🧳 Walking around the block with a suitcase: The custom of carrying a suitcase around the block is said to bring travel opportunities in the coming year.
👀 Different colored underwear: In Mexican and Latin American traditions, wearing different colors of underwear on New Year’s Eve symbolizes different things — like red for passion and love, yellow for luck, and green for wealth.
Mexican Public Holidays
2. Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución) — First Monday in February
📆 When: First Monday of February
Constitution Day in Mexico marks the day in 1917 when Mexico’s current set of laws, the constitution, was officially shared and started.
This new constitution, replacing the older one from 1857, was a big win from the Mexican Revolution.
It introduced important changes like land rights, better conditions for workers, and ensured that the government and religious institutions are separate.
One of the biggest Mexican holidays in February, celebrations are generally civic and include parades, educational events, and government-sponsored activities.
Some schools have special meetings so students can learn why the Mexican Constitution is so important, and perform plays about how the constitution came to be.
These all aim to emphasize the importance of democracy and constitutional rights in Mexico.
Mexican Public Holidays
3. Benito Juárez’s Birthday — Third Monday in March
📆 When: 3rd Monday of March
Benito Juarez’s Birthday (Natalicio de Benito Juárez) commemorates the birth of one of Mexico’s most respected leaders on March 21, 1806.
Juárez is best known for his role in defending Mexican sovereignty and implementing liberal reforms as president during an unstable period in Mexican history.
His leadership during the French intervention in Mexico is particularly celebrated for resisting foreign invasion and restoring the Mexican Republic.
This statutory holiday is observed with various ceremonies and events, especially in government institutions and schools.
During these ceremonies and events, Juárez’s contributions to Mexico’s development and democracy are highlighted.
One of the biggest Mexican holidays in March, the celebrations for Benito Juárez are particularly big in Oaxaca State.
This was Juárez’s birthplace, and you’ll often see parades and other cultural events in his honor.
After all, he’s one of the most famous Oaxacans, and most famous Mexicans.
This day serves as a reminder of Juárez’s enduring legacy in promoting equality and the separation of church and state, principles that have shaped modern Mexico.
Mexican Public Holidays
4. Maundy Thursday & Good Friday — Dates Vary (Usually March/April)
📆 When: The dates vary each year; usually falling in late-March or early-April.
Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are part of the Holy Week (Semana Santa) observances leading up to Easter Sunday.
All the holidays throughout Holy Week (AKA Easter Week, or Semana de Pascua) commemorate the Christian story of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection.
In Mexico, these days are marked by solemn religious processions, passion plays, and reenactments of Jesus Christ’s last days.
🛐 Silent Procession in San Luis Potosí
One of the most famous events is the Procesión del Silencio in San Luis Potosí City. This Silent Procession takes place on Good Friday.
Participants quietly march through the city, reflecting on Jesus’s sacrifices. This procession is a moment of collective contemplation and respect for the faith.
✝️ Reenactment of Christ’s Crucifixion in Iztapalapa
Another popular tradition is the Christ Passion Play in Iztapalapa. This is one of the municipalities within Mexico City.
Iztapalapa hosts the largest reenactment of Christ’s crucifixion in Mexico. Called La Vía Crucis (The Way of the Cross), it draws upwards of one million people annually.
These Mexico holidays are not only significant for their religious content, but also for the cultural traditions that have developed around them.
They also showcase Mexico’s rich blend of prehispanic and indigenous cultures mixed with Spanish influences from Europe.
Mexican Public Holidays
5. Labor Day (Día del Trabajo) — May 1
📆 When: May 1
Similar to Labor Day in other countries, Labor Day in Mexico is a day to honor and recognize the contributions of workers.
It’s a national holiday that sees numerous labor unions and groups organizing marches and demonstrations in cities across the country.
These events are not just about celebration though.
They also serve as platforms for workers to voice their demands and concerns regarding labor laws, wages, and working conditions.
The largest gatherings often take place in major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
In these places, the streets fill with workers carrying banners and chanting. This creates a display of unity and strength amongst the city’s workers.
While it is a day off for many, the significance of Labor Day extends beyond a mere holiday.
It is one of the biggest national holidays specifically focused on reflection on the progress made in workers’ rights and the ongoing struggles faced by the labor force.
Mexican Public Holidays
6. Independence Day (Día de la Independencia) — September 16
📆 When: September 16 at midnight
Just like in other countries, Independence Day is one of the most patriotic holidays in Mexico.
It’s the most important Mexican national holiday, and a time for celebrating the country’s independence from Spanish rule in 1821.
Mexico Independence Day celebrations actually begin the day before, on September 15th. For this reason, you might see Independence Day in Mexico listed as the 15th.
At midnight on September 16th (or the night of September 15th; depending on how you look at it), the most important Independence Day tradition takes place.
At this time, the current president of Mexico will reenact the famous Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores) from the main balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City.
🇲🇽 Reenactment of Grito de Dolores
El Grito de Dolores was the call to arms by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in 1810 that sparked the beginning of the Mexican Independence movement.
While the largest reenactment is in Mexico City, you’ll find towns and cities all across Mexico that replicate this ceremony, with local officials leading this cry of patriotism.
Independence Day is one of the biggest Mexican holidays in September and biggest civic holidays — thanks in part to everyone joining in to proclaim ¡Viva Mexico! during El Grito.
Other festivities include fireworks, parties, food, and live music concerts, showcasing a deep sense of national pride and cultural heritage.
While El Grito is always done at midnight, the day itself is marked by parades, civic ceremonies, and cultural events.
Mexican Public Holidays
7. Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) — November 2
📆 When: November 2
The Mexican holiday Day of the Dead is a deeply meaningful celebration, blending indigenous Mexican beliefs with Catholic traditions.
It honors deceased loved ones, believing that the spirits return to the world of the living for a brief visit with us each year.
During the celebration, you’ll see families begin to set up colorful altars (ofrendas) in their homes, on the streets, and in graveyards.
These altars are decorated with photos of the departed, offerings of their favorite foods and drinks, copal incense, candles, marigold flowers, sugar skulls, and other Day of the Dead symbols.
Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, Día de Muertos is an affirmation of life — rather than a somber event.
It is a way for families to remember and celebrate their ancestors, reflecting the cyclical nature of life and death.
Mexican Public Holidays
8. Revolution Day (Día de la Revolución) — Third Monday in November
📆 When: 3rd Monday of November
Revolution Day marks the start of the Mexican Revolution on November 20, 1910, and is always observed on the third Monday of November.
This public holiday commemorates the fight for justice and equality that led to significant changes in Mexican society, including land reform and workers’ rights.
Celebrations often include parades, patriotic activities, and school events where children perform traditional dances and songs.
In cities like Mexico City, the day is marked by large-scale parades with military and police forces showcasing their strength.
It’s also a time for political leaders to give speeches reflecting on Mexico’s history and the revolution’s ongoing impact on democracy and social justice.
Mexican Public Holidays
9. Inauguration Day (Transmisión del Poder Ejecutivo Federal) — October 1
📆 When: October 1, every 6 years (Note: This used to take place on December 1, but the date was changed in 2024)
You might have heard that Mexico only has 9 statutory holidays, but there are actually 10 public holidays in Mexico.
The confusion arises because only nine take place every single year. The 10th holiday takes place during presidential election years only.
This often-left-out tenth public holiday is called Inauguration Day. It occurs every six years on October 1 to mark the inauguration of the new president of Mexico.
Mexican Public Holidays
10. Christmas Day (Día de Navidad) — December 25
📆 When: December 25
Christmas Day in Mexico marks the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a deeply religious holiday for Catholics, and family-centered holiday for everyone.
However, Navidad is just one day within the larger Mexican Christmas season — which spans 26 days!
The season begins on December 12th with Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, and ends on January 6th with Día de los Reyes Magos. Some jokingly call this the Guadalupe Reyes Marathon.
The Mexican Christmas season also has other special holiday season traditions like Las Posadas, Noche Buena, and New Year’s.
🎉 las posadas (Mexican Christmas Parties)
Las Posadas is a traditional Mexican event that goes from December 16th to 24th, reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before Jesus’s birth.
Participants go door-to-door, singing and asking for lodging, ending with a celebration in a home that “welcomes” them with large parties and gatherings.
🎄 Christmas Eve (Noche Buena)
📆 When: December 24
While Christmas in Mexico is December 25th, the real celebration takes place the night prior on Noche Buena, or Christmas Eve.
The exchange of gifts is also more common on Noche Buena than Christmas Day, and both children and adults will receive presents from Papá Noel (Santa Claus).
The main Christmas dinner in Mexico often features special dishes like romeritos con mole, bacalao, tamales, pozole, ensalada de nochebuena, and roasted meats.
These dinners go late into the night, with parties, drinking, dancing and time spent with loved ones.
If your family is religious, you’d likely head to Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve after eating dinner instead of partying late into the night.
Known as Misa de Gallo (Rooster’s Mass), this special mass is held at midnight and symbolizes the announcement of Jesus’s birth.
The churches also usually have festive decorations like nacimientos (large-scale or life-size Nativity scenes or manger), poinsettias, and festive lights for the Misa de Gallo.
Mexican Public Holidays
12 More Mexican Holidays You Should Know About
We’ve mentioned all the statutory holidays in Mexico. However, but there’s more to this story in a country that celebrates at least one holiday per month.
Below, you’ll find civic holidays in Mexico and several other Mexican days that aren’t on the list of public holidays Mexico has — but are still worth celebrating.
1. Epiphany/Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes Magos) — January 6
📆 When: January 6
Día de Reyes, or Three Kings Day, is celebrated on January 6th to honor the Three Wise Men’s visit to baby Jesus, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
This day marks the end of the Christmas season in Mexico.
Families gather to enjoy a meal and Rosca de Reyes for dessert. This is a special wreath-shaped sweet bread with hidden figurines representing baby Jesus inside.
Whoever finds the figurine (called the muñeco) is expected to host a party on February 2nd, Día de la Candelaria, and buy tamales for everyone to eat.
Children also leave their shoes out the night before, hoping to find them filled with gifts from the Wise Men in the morning.
In fact, many kids in Mexico actually open their Christmas gifts on this day; not Christmas Day or Christmas Eve (Noche Buena).
Mexican Public Holidays
2. Mexican Army Day (Día del Ejército) — February 19
📆 When: February 19
One of the lesser known Mexico February holidays, Mexican Army Day is celebrated to honor the establishment of the Mexican Army in 1913.
The day acknowledges the army’s role in defending the nation and its contributions to the country’s independence and sovereignty.
Celebrations include military parades and ceremonies across Mexico, especially in Mexico City.
Here, the president and high-ranking officials from the armed forces participate in events that pay tribute to the army’s history, achievements, and fallen soldiers.
One of the most important Mexico city holidays, it’s a day of national pride, reflecting on the military’s importance in shaping Mexico’s history.
Mexican Public Holidays
3. Mexican Flag Day (Día de la Bandera) — February 24
📆 When: February 24
As the name says, Flag Day celebrates the Mexican flag’s history and symbolism.
The day celebrates the first official adoption of the flag in 1821, representing the country’s independence and unity.
Ceremonies and events across Mexico honor the flag, with a special emphasis on its three colors:
- 🇲🇽 Green for hope and victory
- 🇲🇽 White for purity and unity
- 🇲🇽 Red for the blood of national heroes
Some schools in Mexico hold assemblies where students learn about the flag’s history, and government officials participate in flag-raising ceremonies.
It’s one of the most symbolic Mexico holidays in February focused on patriotism, and reminding Mexicans of their country’s identity and values.
Mexican Public Holidays
4. Children’s Day (Día del Niño) — April 30
📆 When: April 30
Like the name says, Children’s Day is dedicated to honoring and appreciating children. It is a fun holiday for kids, but also a time for adults to remember their childhood.
This Kid’s Day is filled with activities, events, and celebrations aimed at the younger members of families and communities.
Schools often host special events, including games, music, and performances, allowing children to have fun and enjoy their day to the fullest.
Similarly, public parks and community centers organize activities and workshops designed for children’s entertainment and learning.
It’s one of the best Mexican holiday in April. Families celebrate by giving gifts to their children and spending quality time together, enjoying outings or special meals.
Mexican Public Holidays
5. Fifth of May (Cinco de Mayo) — May 5
📆 When: May 5
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.
Often confused with Independence Day (that’s Sept. 16), Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of Mexican resistance and perseverance against foreign intervention.
A minor holiday in Mexico that’s primarily celebrated in Puebla City, it has gained popularity in the United States as a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage.
In Puebla, May 5th is marked by speeches from political officials, performances, and a live reenactment of the historic Battle of Puebla.
There are also military parades and reenactments where Mexican forces, under General Ignacio Zaragoza, overcame significant odds to defeat the French Army.
Mexican Public Holidays
6. Miguel Hidalgo’s Birthday (Natalicio de Miguel Hidalgo) — May 8
📆 When: May 8
Although not a public holiday, this day celebrates the birth of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, considered the Father of Mexican Independence.
Born in 1753, Hidalgo was a Roman Catholic priest and revolutionary leader who initiated the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule.
The day is observed through educational events and discussions about Hidalgo’s role in leading the first significant movement towards independence in 1810.
His call to arms, known as the Grito de Dolores, is an important moment in Mexican history, celebrated for sparking the fight for freedom and justice in Mexico.
Mexican Public Holidays
7. Mother’s Day (Día de la Madre) — May 10
📆 When: May 10
Mexican culture is very family-oriented — and many go all out to honor their mama each year on Dia de la Madre or Dia de la Mama.
If you find yourself in Mexico during Mother’s Day, you may be awoken to hear mariachi bands serenading some mothers beginning at midnight.
During the day, it’s common to take mom out for lunch, or make her a nice meal at your house, and even give her a gift.
Mexican Public Holidays
8. Father’s Day (Día del Padre) — June 20
📆 When: June 20
Wondering, Are there any Mexican holidays in June? There is, and it’s the only major one of all the Mexican national holidays during this month.
Father’s Day in Mexico is pretty much identical to the holiday in the United States. Many will buy dad a gift, or take him to lunch, or plan a big family dinner.
In addition to eating a meal together, different Mexican family traditions might be celebrated within each family.
Mexican Public Holidays
9. Day of the Races (Día de la Raza) — October 12
📆 When: October 12
While not one of the official national holidays in Mexico, Day of the Race is widely observed throughout the country as an homage to Mexico’s prehispanic people.
Similar to Indigenous Peoples Day in the U.S., it’s a time to remember native cultures that were forever impacted following Christopher Columbus’s “discovery” of the Americas.
Mexican Public Holidays
10. Day of the Little Angels (Día de los Inocentes) — November 1
📆 When: November 1
November 1st is dedicated to remembering children who have died, while November 2nd is the actual Day of the Dead to honor deceased adults.
The festivities are largely the same, but this day specifically honors the children — and should not be confused with Day of the Holy Innocents on December 28.
Mexican Public Holidays
11. All Souls’ Day (Día de los Fieles Difuntos) — November 2
📆 When: November 2
All Souls’ Day, known in Mexico as Día de los Fieles Difuntos, is a day dedicated to remembering and honoring the deceased.
While closely associated with Day of the Dead celebrations that start on October 31st, All Souls’ Day specifically focuses on the souls of the departed — specifically Catholic souls.
Similar to Día de los Muertos, families visit cemeteries to clean and decorate graves with marigold flowers, candles, and offerings.
It’s a time for prayers, remembrance, and sharing memories of loved ones who have passed away.
The belief that the spirits return to visit their families during this time turns these gatherings into a mix of solemn reflection and celebration of life.
Traditional foods like pan de muerto and sugar skulls are also prepared and shared, highlighting the fusion of indigenous and Spanish cultural practices.
Mexican Public Holidays
12. Virgin of Guadalupe Day (Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe) — December 12
📆 When: December 12
Virgin of Guadalupe Day on December 12 is one of the most important religious and cultural holidays in Mexico.
It celebrates the appearance of the Virgin of Guadalupe (an aparición mariana, or apparition of the Virgin Mary) to Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill in 1531.
The Virgin of Guadalupe has since become a national symbol, merging a blend of Catholic and indigenous beliefs. She is also considered the Mother of Mexico.
Millions of pilgrims travel to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City, one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, to pay their respects and ask for blessings.
People from all over Mexico, and even from other countries, walk for miles, often carrying images of the Virgin.
With hundreds of thousands to millions in attendance in Mexico City, the day is filled with celebrations, including Masses, traditional music, dancing, and feasts.
Children are dressed in traditional costumes, and mariachi bands play songs in honor of La Patrona Virgen María de Guadalupe (the patron saint of Mexico).
Mexican Public Holidays: Frequently Asked Questions
How many public holidays does Mexico have?
Mexico has 10 statutory holidays, with nine observed annually. For this reason, you might have heard Mexico only has nine official public holidays.
These include New Year’s Day, Constitution Day, Benito Juárez’s Birthday, Good Friday, Labor Day, Independence Day, Revolution Day and Christmas Day, among others.
The tenth holiday occurs every six years on December 1 to mark the inauguration of a new president of Mexico. This is called Inauguration Day, and it is a public holiday.
Whether they’re Mexico holidays in March or Mexico holidays in November, each of these holidays is celebrated with various traditions, public ceremonies, and often a day off from work for most people.
Mexican Public Holidays
Are there mandated federal holidays in Mexico?
Yes — Article 74 of the Mexican Federal Labor Law states that employees can’t be made to work on federally mandated holidays.
However, some choose to because they get TRIPLE pay working on a Mexican federal holiday. This includes their regular pay, and then double pay as a bonus.
Mexican Public Holidays
What are the 3 most celebrated holidays in Mexico?
The three most celebrated holidays in Mexico are Independence Day, Day of the Dead, and Christmas.
Independence Day, on September 16, is marked by nationwide festivities including parades, fireworks, and patriotic displays.
The Day of the Dead, held November 1 and 2, is a unique tradition honoring deceased loved ones with vibrant altars, lively celebrations and street parties.
Christmas is widely celebrated with religious ceremonies, family gatherings, and cultural festivities, reflecting Mexico’s rich Catholic heritage.
Mexican Public Holidays
What is the biggest celebration in Mexico?
The biggest celebration in Mexico is the Day of the Dead, which has elaborate decorations, parties and parades.
This deeply cultural event combines indigenous traditions with Catholic beliefs to honor deceased relatives and friends.
During this Mexico holiday November event, families create colorful altars, decorate gravesites, and share memories.
It is a significant occasion for communal and family bonding, remembering departed loved ones, and reflecting on the cycle of life and death.
Mexican Public Holidays
What holiday is unique to only Mexico?
Several holidays unique to only Mexico include Cinco de Mayo (Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla), El Grito de Dolores (Cry of Dolores), and Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead).
💀 Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos): Celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, this is a vibrant tradition honoring deceased loved ones with altars, offerings and parties.
While there are similar death-centric holiday celebrations in places like Guatemala (Kite Festival) and Bolivia (Day of Skulls), Mexico Day of the Dead tops them all.
🇲🇽 Cry of Dolores (Grito de Dolores): Observed on September 15th, this marks the beginning of Mexico’s independence movement, commemorated with the president’s reenactment of Hidalgo’s historic call to arms called El Grito de Dolores.
🪖 Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla (Cinco de Mayo): Held on May 5th, and specifically celebrated in Puebla City, Mexico.
In Puebla and Mexico, 5 de Mayo is better known as Día de la Batalla de Puebla, commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French.
However, it has a broader observance in the United States, focusing on Mexican-American culture and price. This holiday Mexico has become more popular in the USA.
These are just some feriados Mexico has, as there are so many more holiday traditions — at this point, you might even be wondering Is today a holiday in Mexico?
They showcase Mexico’s rich cultural heritage, combining historical significance, artistic expression, and communal values unique to the Mexican experience.
Mexican Public Holidays
What is Kings Day in Mexico?
Three Kings Day, or Día de Reyes, is celebrated on January 6th and marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men with gifts for the baby Jesus.
It’s a day for families to exchange presents and enjoy Rosca de Reyes, a wreath-shaped cake hiding small figurines of the Baby Jesus called muñecos (little dolls).
Whoever finds the figurine has to buy everyone tamales for the party on February 2nd to mark Día de la Candelaria. This blends religious tradition with social gatherings.
Final Thoughts: Mexican Public Holidays
We’ve reached the end of this list with just some of the most famous celebrations in Mexico.
Did you discover some new public Mexico holidays you never knew about? Even though I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018, even I did.
From the Mexican holidays in November, like the spiritual showcase for Day of the Dead, to the national holidays Mexico observes with pride, such as Independence Day — there are certainly A LOT to know about.
Let’s not forget the joyous Mexican holidays in April, including the playful and child-centric Children’s Day.
Following in May and June, there’s Mexican Mother’s Day and Mexican Father’s Day to honor their parents.
Anyone planning holidays to Mexico will find a calendar brimming with opportunities to explore the rich cultural fabric of this nation.
Though some traditions might appear false to the uninitiated, each festivity on the menu of Mexican celebrations offers a unique taste of the country’s deep historical roots and communal bonds.