Christmas 2026

Christmas in Cario

The markets, the lights and the parties — and when each is worth it.

15 days to go16 Nov – 26 Dec · 7 ideas

  • 4 for families
  • 1 free

Don't miss

    Friday 20 November

    • Día de la Revolución Mexicana - Public Holiday

      This is an official public holiday in Mexico, commemorating the start of the Mexican Revolution. Most government offices, banks, and schools will be closed. Many businesses may also operate on reduced hours or close.

    Saturday 12 December

    • Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe - National Celebration

      While not an official public holiday, this day is widely celebrated throughout Mexico to honor the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico. Many businesses, especially in Catholic communities, may close or have reduced hours, and special masses and festivities are common.

      Source: Assist Card

    Thursday 24 December

    • Sorteo Gordo de Navidad - National Christmas Lottery Draw

      20:00Varies by ticket price

      The Sorteo Gordo de Navidad is Mexico's most important lottery draw, organized by LOTENAL (Lotería Nacional de México). It takes place on Christmas Eve and offers a large prize pool.

      FamilySource: Lotería Nacional

    • Cena de Nochebuena - Traditional Christmas Eve Dinner

      21:00

      Christmas Eve is the primary family celebration in Mexico, centered around a traditional dinner. Common dishes, particularly in the Michoacán region, include pozole, tamales, corundas, aporreadillo, bacalao a la Vizcaína, and various seasonal desserts like buñuelos. Shops and restaurants may close early in preparation for this family-centered evening.

      Family

    Friday 25 December

    • Navidad (Christmas Day) - Public Holiday

      December 25th is an official public holiday in Mexico. Many businesses, shops, and attractions will be closed or operate on very limited hours as families continue their Christmas celebrations.

    All season

    • Las Posadas - Traditional Christmas Celebrations

      16 – 24 Decfree

      Las Posadas are a traditional nine-day celebration in Mexico, taking place nightly from December 16th to 24th. They recreate Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem, often involving processions, singing, and festive gatherings with piñatas, buñuelos, and ponche. These are community and family-focused events.

      FamilyFree

    • Display of Nativity Scenes (Nacimientos)

      16 Nov – 26 Dec

      Throughout the Christmas season in Mexico, it is a widespread tradition for families, churches, and public spaces to display elaborate Nativity Scenes, or 'Nacimientos', depicting the birth of Jesus. These are central to Mexican Christmas decorations.

      FamilySource: Marriott Bonvoy Traveler

    Times and prices change, so check with the organiser before you go. Updated 1 Nov

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