Mexico is shrouded in a mysterious aura of magic and is famous for its vibrant cultural traditions. An integral aspect of getting to know local customs and mentality is celebrations. Contrary to stereotypes, most Mexicans are hospitable and welcome curious guests into the intricacies of their culture. 

Traveling to Mexico, catch a chance to discover the world from a different angle through the prism of historical exploits and mysterious superstitions. In this article, you will find holidays essential for Mexican culture that will give you an extraordinary experience.

Day of the Dead

Death is one of the key concepts in the worldview of the indigenous people of Mexico. Death is looked in the eye without fear, and the culture of honoring deceased ancestors is developed. The Christianity of the Spaniards intertwined with Indian beliefs, forming a unique tandem. It is reflected in the Day of the Dead celebration, which coincides with the Christian All Saints' Day.

The first two days of November in Mexico are dedicated to the memory of the dead and caring for the ancestors' graves. Despite some similarities to Halloween, Day of the Dead doesn't play on the fear of death. Mexicans revive the memory of the dead and honor it with wild fun. The indigenous population believes that mourning the dead is a sign of disrespect.

It is the Day of the unity of life and death, when, according to beliefs, the souls of ancestors come to visit from the other world. Among the authentic traditions of this holiday:

• gifts in the form of a sugar skull with your name (by eating a symbol of your death, you are not afraid of it),

• dancing in carnival costumes of skeletons,

• thousand-year-old rituals protected by UNESCO,

• ritual food (Bread of the Dead, pulque beverage, atole – kind of corn porridge),

• reunification of the symbolism of life and death (skulls painted with shoots of flowering plants).

Mexico's Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day falls on September 16th. In the first decade of the 19th century, the Christian priest Miguel Hidalgo addressed the residents with a speech about the oppression of Spanish rule. His words resonated in the hearts of the locals, as thoughts of freedom after hundreds of years of oppression were in the air. 

Almost eleven years of insurgency were conducted to the recognition of Mexico as an independent country. The brave priest who changed the course of history is a symbol of this day.

On the eve, the President of Mexico traditionally rings a church bell and repeats the legendary speech of Hidalgo y Costilla, which can be seen in person or via broadcast. Also, on this holiday, you can enjoy:

• large-scale fireworks display,

• parades,

• traditional costumes,

• festive performances,

• noisy feasts.

The most exciting events are in the capital, though the celebration is widespread. On this day you can visit several places and more events! For quick and comfortable travel, consider renting a car in Mexico.

Cinco de Mayo

You shouldn’t confuse this holiday with Independence Day - it is not even a public holiday! Cinco de Mayo celebrates the essential historical event - the Battle of Puebla and is a cultural heritage celebration. By the early 1860s, Mexico was in default. 

While the British and Spanish resolved the debt issue peacefully, the French decided to achieve their goal through military means. In the Battle, Mexican General Zaragoza heroically won a victory over the army of Napoleon III.

The war with the French did not end with this event, but that battle was inspiring in the struggle of the Mexicans for territorial integrity. The most colorful events occur in the Puebla region, - closer to the site. Among the celebration traditions:

• great gastronomic diversity,

• reconstruction of the event,

• military parades,

• carnival,

• mariachi music.

Day of the Races

Dia de la Raza on October 12th is the Nation's multicultural day. A more familiar name for this holiday in Spanish-speaking countries is Columbus Day. The new name for the holiday in Mexico was approved by the Senate in 2020. The primary message of the events today is the exchange of cultural characteristics of the various ethnic groups (mainly Spanish and Indian).

Given the militant process of colonization and the times of oppression of the indigenous population, this holiday is not everyone's cup of tea. However, such events, on the contrary, are aimed at suppressing hostility among the residents. 

The tradition is over 100 years old, and the entertainment includes dancing, costumed processions, and a vast range of authentic dishes. Day of the Races is a great way to celebrate tradition and discover the diversity of Mexican culture.

Guadalajara International Film Festival

The tradition of celebrating spring with a film festival has helped propel Mexican cinema to the international level. The International Film Festival takes place annually in Guadalajara and lasts a week. Mexican movies are very authentic. 

This event will allow you to delve deeper into the local culture and feel the atmosphere. Guadalajara hosts many more festivals with carnivals, traditions, and local treats, for example:

• International Mariachi and Charrería Festival (under the protection of UNESCO),

• Fiestas de Octubre,

• May Cultural Festival.

When visiting the city for local delicacies, music, and traditional crafts, - consider Guadalajara car rental services. Traveling by car, you can make your trip richer and see more. HERTZ car rental services have a diverse range of cars at favorable prices. Book your vehicle with Hertz Guadalajara Airport, and be confident in your plans from arrival.

Conclusion

Attending festivals in Mexico will give you an unusual pastime and enrich you culturally. Enchanting parades and concerts await you in big cities. In rural areas, you can find authentic traditions and echoes of history. Read about the culture of Mexico in advance to understand the origins of rituals and create an impressive route around the country.