Quick Guide to Customs and Traditions in Mexico

Mexico is a country rich in culture, history, and traditions that reflect the soul and essence of its people. From vibrant festivities to daily customs, every aspect of Mexican life is filled with meaning. These practices keep roots alive and pass cultural heritage to future generations.

In this guide, we invite you to discover some of the most important and representative traditions and customs that make Mexico such a special country.

Introduction to Mexican Customs and Traditions

In Mexico, customs and traditions are more than just events—they’re at the heart of their national identity. These celebrations connect families and communities, not only with each other but also with their past and cultural roots. Many Mexican traditions blend Indigenous and Spanish influences, creating a fascinating and unique cultural mix.

Let’s explore some of the most important customs and traditions in Mexico.

Iconic Festivities

There are many holidays celebrated throughout the year in Mexico. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)

Celebrated between the night of November 1st and November 2nd, this is one of Mexico’s most iconic and globally recognized traditions. It’s a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away.

Families create altars (ofrendas) decorated with marigold flowers (cempasúchil), candles, photos, and some of the favorite foods and items of the deceased. While it might sound somber, this is actually a celebration that is full of life, colors, and joy, focusing on gratitude and celebrating the lives of the departed rather than mourning them.

La Guelaguetza

This traditional celebration in Oaxaca showcases the cultural diversity of Indigenous communities. During La Guelaguetza, groups from different regions perform folk dances, authentic music, and wear traditional costumes, sharing their heritage with everyone in attendance. It’s held annually in July, usually on the last Monday of the month.

Las Posadas

From December 16th to December 24th, these traditional celebrations reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey seeking shelter before the birth of Jesus. These festivities often include traditional songs, breaking piñatas, and enjoying treats like buñuelos and hot punch (ponche).

Celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe

On December 12th, the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City welcomes millions of faithful from different regions to honor the Virgin of Guadalupe.

This celebration includes processions, religious songs, and demonstrations of faith that reflect the Mexican people’s devotion.

Día de la Independencia de México

On September 15th and 16th, Mexico commemorates its independence with parades, fireworks, and the famous “Grito de Dolores”. It’s a time filled with pride and patriotism, where plazas are adorned with music, traditional food, and national colors.

Carnaval de Veracruz

The Carnaval de Veracruz is one of Mexico’s most joyful and energetic festivities. Held during Lent, it features parades with dance troupes, street parties, concerts, and traditions like the burning of "bad mood," making it a celebration of music and color. It’s one of the country’s largest festivals, attracting thousands of local and international tourists each year.

Quinceañeras

This is one of the most significant celebrations in a young woman’s life in Mexico, marking her transition from childhood to womanhood. Though it’s technically just a 15th birthday party (similar to a Sweet Sixteen party in the US), it actually holds great social and cultural importance.

Traditions in Quinceañeras include a religious mass, dancing the waltz, and for the birthday girl to ceremoniously change her flat shoes for high heels, among others.

Mexican Traditions

Traditional Food

Mexican cuisine is a feast of flavors, with iconic dishes like tamales, pozole, mole, enchiladas, and, of course, tacos. Every recipe tells a story, and dishes vary from state to state, making every visit an opportunity to surprise your palate with unique and authentic tastes.

Traditional Attire

Traditional outfits, like the tehuana dress in Oaxaca, the huipil in Chiapas, or the charro suit in Jalisco, reflect the region’s history and the craftsmanship of local artisans, using embroidery, fabrics, and traditional techniques.

Religious Rituals

Rituals like Día de Muertos, the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, or the posadas showcase how religious festivities are celebrated with prayers, music, and family gatherings, keeping ancestral customs alive.

Folk Dances

Traditional dances, like the Danza de los Viejitos, Danza de los Concheros, or Jarabe Tapatío, are artistic expressions that reflect the history, traditions, and values of each region through energetic movements, vibrant costumes, and unique music.

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Daily Customs

Mexicans have many daily customs that are unique to the country. Here are some examples:

Greetings in Mexico

Greeting someone with a kiss on the cheek is common in Mexico as a sign of closeness and affection, especially among friends and family. However, in more formal or professional settings, a light handshake is preferred.

The Value of Family

Family is fundamental in Mexico, which is regarded as the core of emotional, social, and economic support for Mexicans, as well as the foundation of social and cultural structure, promoting values like loyalty, mutual support, unity, and respect for elders.

Food as a Social Act

In Mexico, every meal is always an opportunity to connect. Even for quick meals like tacos or tortas, it’s common to take the time to share the moment with coworkers, friends, or family.

Respect for Religious Beliefs

Although Mexico is diverse, most people practice Catholicism. It’s common to see home altars or novenas dedicated to saints. Similarly, religious festivities like Candlemas, Holy Week, and Christmas are very important to communities.

Punctuality and "Tiempo Mexicano"

While punctuality is valued, especially in formal or professional contexts, there’s often a certain flexibility known as “tiempo mexicano” (“Mexican time”). This means that some social events or gatherings may start a bit later than usual.

Traveler’s Etiquette Guide to Mexico

To ensure an enjoyable experience in Mexico, it’s essential to understand and respect local etiquette. Here are some key tips:

Using "Usted" and "Tú"

While both “usted” and “tú” can both be literally translated as “you” they actually have quite different uses:

• "Usted" is used to show respect, especially towards older people, people in authority, or strangers. You should particularly use it in formal situations or when you want to maintain a respectful tone when addressing someone. For example: “Buenas tardes, señor García, ¿cómo está usted?” (“Good afternoon, Mr. Garcia, how are you?”)
• On the other hand, we use "tú" to address someone we know more intimately, such as friends, family, and other trusted people. It is also common among young people or people of the same age range. For example: “¿Qué onda wey? ¿Cómo estás?” (“What's up, dude? How are you?”)

Note: There are some older people or people in authority who do like to be addressed as “tú” instead of “usted.” If you have any doubts, it is best to ask them directly about their preferences in a polite manner.

Visiting Mexican Homes

If a Mexican person invites you to their home, it is very likely that they will offer you some food or something to drink upon arriving. If you are not hungry or thirsty at the time, it is okay to decline, but always do so politely in a way you show appreciation and gratefulness towards the host.

Social Gatherings

At social events, it is recommended to bring a small gift, such as flowers, a bottle of wine or a dessert, as a gesture of gratitude to the hosts. Avoid talking about inappropriate topics or using your phone excessively, as it may be considered impolite. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, and to be sure to greet and say goodbye to all attendees.

At the Table

It is customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and to practice basic table manners, such as not talking with your mouth full, using cutlery when necessary and showing gratitude to your hosts at the end of the meal.

Interacting with locals

Showing interest in local traditions and customs is much appreciated. Likewise, it is best not to assume that all Mexicans speak English, especially outside tourist areas. Doing so without asking first might be seen as a gesture of arrogance or disrespect towards the local language.

Being friendly and respectful towards Mexican people and having an open attitude towards local culture will help ensure that interactions are positive and respectful.

Conclusion

Mexican customs and traditions reflect the rich history and culture of this country. Every custom, whether festive or daily, tells a story that unites people and allows them to share their heritage with the world.

Learning about and respecting these traditions enriches your perspective as a visitor and invites you to be part of the unique and welcoming spirit of this wonderful country.

Remember to practice some basic Spanish phrases before your trip with the Promova app, and to share your experiences in the comments. We love learning about new cultures with you!