8 Mexican Traditions You Have to Experience for Yourself

From the traditions and holidays in Mexico to its legendary cuisine, there are so many things about Mexico to love, which is why people around the world are constantly seeking authentic Mexican experiences to add to their daily endeavors. Home to more than 130 million people, the country is one of the most populated in the world, but Mexican culture spreads much further than its borders. It has warmed the hearts of so many people on every continent that individuals are constantly trying to replicate everything from traditional Mexican food to its festive celebrations. As good as they get, there is nothing quite like experiencing the best of Mexican traditions while in Mexico, which is why you should visit the country soon to try these authentic Mexican experiences. Read on to learn 8 interesting facts about Mexico and its people.

1. Independence Day

Often confused for Cinco de Mayo, Mexico’s real Independence Day is September 16th, a day that commemorates Hidalgo’s call for independence from Spain in 1810. On this date, people all over the country celebrate with fireworks, parties, and el grito (the yell), one of the most important traditions of Mexico. If you’re lucky enough to be in Mexico around this time of year, get ready to party!

2. Day of the Dead

There are so many traditions and holidays in Mexico, but day of the dead or “Día de Muertos” is truly one of the most beautiful. Considered an important aspect of Mexican culture, the Day of the Dead honors those that have passed away with traditional Mexican food, parades, dancing, and altars dedicated to loved ones. This celebration of life and death is held from November 1-2 each year. If you’re in town, be sure to join in the festivities; you might learn to celebrate the cycle of life in a new way.

3. The Virgin of Guadalupe

Every year on December 12th, people all over Mexico kick off the holiday season with a celebration in honor of an important figure in the Catholic religion. With a feast of traditional Mexican food, massive parades, and a visit to their church, you’ll find celebrations in the streets and at establishments around town. Prior to this date in cities like Puerto Vallarta, you’ll also see twelve days of pilgrimages flooding the cobblestone streets of downtown with music, folkloric dancing, colorful decorations, and more. It is an exciting time to be in Mexico.

4. Las Posadas

From December 12th to January 6th, a time known as the Guadalupe-Reyes holiday season, people gather for one of best Mexican traditions, the posada. These holiday parties are one of the best things about Mexico if you like socializing, eating delicious food, and spreading cheer while surrounded by friends and family. Most people end up attending a number of holiday posadas during this time, which means a lot of tamales, pozole, and atole, three food traditions of Mexico associated with these events.

5. Mariachi

A musical masterpiece, mariachi is a unique form of music that dates back to the 18th century, making it one of the oldest traditions of Mexico. An essential part of any authentic Mexican experience, mariachi music is a source of pride for the people and it draws crowds of onlookers who like to sing and dance along. Typically, it involves a somewhat small group of guitarists, violinists, trumpeteres, and singers, who wow audiences with their distinct style and unmistakable sounds. Definitely a sight to see, you’ll likely find mariachi at weddings, graduations, retirement parties, birthdays, and just about anywhere where people are celebrating.

6. The Voladores

It should come as no surprise that some of the most interesting facts about Mexico stem from the pre-Hispanic civilizations that ruled over the land long before Europeans came to the Americas. Among those groups were the Nahum, Huastec, and Otomoi peoples who lived in central Mexico. Part of their rituals was the Danza de los Voladores, or the dance of the flyers, which has become a staple in Mexican culture. If you find yourself in Puerto Vallarta, visit the Malecón where you can see the native people climb to the top of a large pole before working their way down to the ground again by hanging from a rope upside down while playing music and performing their ceremony. The unique event is one of the traditions of Mexico you won’t want to miss.

7. Mexican Fiestas

One of the best things about Mexico is how much the people like to party. There is a celebration for just about anything, but if you really want an authentic Mexican experience, attend a traditional Mexican fiesta, where you’ll find folkloric dancing, a variety of musical traditions, delicious food, and the vibrant colors the country is known for. You’ll have the time of your life and learn a lot about the country at the same time. 

8. Tequila, Mezcal, and Raicilla

You’ll rarely find traditions and holidays in Mexico that don’t include tequila, mezcal, or raicilla in some form or another. The popular spirits, which come from the Jalisco region of Mexico, are an integral part of any lively celebration. Whether sipped, mixed, or taken as a shot, these liquors are a must when south of the border.

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