Discover Mexican traditions: much more than catrinas and spicy

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Today is the day of the Mexican Constitution and we could give you a history lesson that surely you would not finish reading, but we prefer to let you know the Mexican traditions so you can really know the country of the catrinas before knowing the Mayan city of Chichen Itza.

Because you’ve read about Day of the Dead in Mexico you already think you know the country? Well, you also know why Mexicans like spicy food so much. We’re sorry to tell you that you still don’t have the title of Mexico expert, let’s fix that!

Home remedies

In Mexico they have a reputation for self-medicating with home remedies, and it’s true. They rely on their medicinal knowledge and herbal teas become the best medicine for colds and even major infections. Our advice is not to try any of these home remedies the day before you travel to Tulum, in order not to collapse the toilet.

Mariachis

It may not sound strange to you that mariachis are a Mexican tradition because there is no party without them. At weddings, graduations and anniversaries, the music never stops playing. In Cocula in Jalisco, known as the World Cradle of Mariachi, there are receipts dating back to 1700, which reflect payments to a musical group to sing to the patron saint of the town. There is no doubt that it is one of the most known Mexican traditions !

And in case there was still any doubt: January 21 was officially declared “the day when the crazy mariachi wants to dance” and is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Alebrijes

Alebrijes are imaginative beings in the shape of animals that are made by modeling newspaper. A wire is used to maintain the structure and to decorate them they are painted with bright colors. Since 2007, the Museum of Popular Art has held the Monumental Alebrijes Parade in October. Little by little you will learn all about Mexico!

Quinceañera

This is not only a Mexican tradition you are right, but it comes from the great pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico, Aztecs and Mayas. The tradition mands to give the birthday girl a doll or stuffed toy that represents the last toy of her childhood and exchange the flat shoe by the heeled one that represents the passage to maturity.

If you’re under 15 you can start convincing your parents to celebrate your birthday in Mexico. If you’re a parent of a teenage girl and you’re afraid she’ll ask for the big party, consider what to do in Mexico while you pack your bags.

Piñatas

Piñatas are a Mexican tradition dating back to the 16th century. Its structure has 7 peaks, each representing a cardinal sin and must be broken blindfolded to be broken with blind faith. It is a tradition that is celebrated December after December in every Mexican home. There are candies inside!

Wrestling

Surely you have in mind a wrestler with a lively colored mask, you are visualizing a Mexican wrestler! Mexican wrestling is pure entertainment and it’s a Mexican tradition to gather the whole family to watch the acrobatics, aerial attacks and famous keys of your favorite wrestlers on TV or live. It’s the best preparation for beating crocodiles if you decide to visit Sian Ka’an!

Papantla flyers

This pre-hispanic tradition from the Papantla region is also performed in other regions of the Mexican nation. It is a ritual full of symbolism and mysticism. It has been performed for hundreds of years as a means of communication with the gods to invoke rain.

Tequila

It’s not that everyone drinks it, only those over 18, but if there is tequila, there is family. Mexicans prefer to drink it at room temperature and without lemon and salt, bullshit! Just tequila is much better and does not lose its flavor. And although it is a classic at celebrations, there are some Mexicans who dare to accompany their food with this light liquor. What a stomach!

The Central American country has a lot to offer and these are just a few of the traditions of Mexico that will help you get to know it. They are not simple wrestlers, mariachis or piñatas. Getting to know Mexican history and tradition will undoubtedly enrich your experience. There is a lot what to see in Mexico! Do you want to check it out?