Learn About the People of Mexico by Exploring Their Celebrations

January 6 Dia de los Santos Reyes Dia de los Sontos Reyes means “the day of the the Kings”, or “the Wise Men day”. Mexicans do not exchange Christmas presents until this day, in accordance with the arrival of the three gift-bearing wisemen to Jesus Christ. This day completes the Christmastime festivities. The Mexican children put their shoes by the window, and the Magi (Wise Men) put presents in the shoes of the good children. If the present is big, it is placed beside the shoe.

November 1 & 2 Dia de los Muertos Dia de los Muertos means “Day of the Dead”. An important Mexican holiday. Europe’s All Saints’ Day and the Aztec worship of the dead contribute to these two days that honor Mexico’s dead.

Dia de la Raza means “Day of the Race”. This day celebrates Columbus’ arrival to the Americas, and the historical origins of the Mexican race. October 12 Dia de la Raza

May 5 Cinco de Mayo Cinco de Mayo means “Fifth of May”. The Mexican holiday that honors the Mexican defeat of the French army at Puebla de los Angeles in 1862.

December 16 Las Posadas Las Posadas means “The Inns”. This celebrates Joseph and Mary’s search for shelter in Bethlehem with candlelight processions that end at various nativity scenes. Las Posadas continues through January 6.

December 25 Navidad Navidad, as you might have guessed, is the Spanish word for Christmas. With the rest of the Christian world, Mexico celebrates Christmas Day.