Celebrations are held throughout Mexico on Christmas Day (Navidad) each year to commemorate the birth of Jesus, whom many Christians believe is the son of God. It is also a worldwide celebration in most Christian churches on December 25.
Is Christmas Day a Public Holiday?
Christmas Day is a public holiday. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed.
In 2021, it falls on a Saturday, and some businesses may choose to follow Saturday opening hours.
Christmas Day is often spent as a day to rest after festivities. People wish each other Merry Christmas (Feliz Navidad). It is common to relax, catch up with family and friends, and eat leftovers (recalentado) from Christmas Eve (Noche Buena) dinner.
Public Life
Christmas Day is a public holiday in Mexico. Banks, schools, government offices and many businesses are closed. People intending on travelling via public transport in Mexico should check with public transit authorities on any timetable or route changes.
About Christmas Day
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. His birth date is unknown because there is little public information about his early life. There is disagreement among scholars on when Jesus was actually born. Many Christians celebrate Jesus’ birthday on December 25. Many Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas Day on or near January 7.
Did You Know?
While children receive gifts from baby Jesus on Christmas Eve, they also get presents on Epiphany, or the Day of the Holy Kings (Día de los Santos Reyes), on January 6.