Mexico has a short list of statutory descansos obligatorios — fewer than most of Latin America — but a long list of civic and religious observances that close schools and offices in practice.

How people take the days

Three holidays are legally fixed to Mondays under the puente reform, which built long weekends into the calendar. Semana Santa is not statutory but is the single biggest travel week of the year.

If you're visiting

Shops and restaurants stay open; banks and government offices close. Day of the Dead brings cemetery visits and heavy crowds in Oaxaca and Mexico City, and 12 December fills Mexico City's basilica.

If you live here

Statutory leave rose to 12 days in the first year from 2023, up from six — many older guides are wrong. Working a mandatory holiday pays triple.

Nearby countries

Neighbours of Mexico — see their holidays, or compare the two calendars side by side.

What these days actually mean

Observance, business closures and transport impact for the next few dates.

Revolution Day

16 Nov 2026

Public

Observance: Marks the 1910 revolution, observed on the third Monday of November under the puente reform rather than on 20 November itself. Sports parades in Mexico City.
Business: A mandatory day off — banks, offices and government close; retail opens.
Transport: Central Mexico City closures for the parade; heavy long-weekend road travel.

Written for this country

Christmas Day

25 Dec 2026

Public

Observance: The central Christian winter feast; in most countries the household gathering matters more than the church service.
Business: Near-total closure of retail, offices and banks. Expect the preceding afternoon to shut early too.
Transport: Skeleton or suspended services in many countries. Book intercity travel well ahead.