Easter Mexico holidays

Easter traditions in Mexico

The Easter season kicks off with Carnival celebrations, usually held the week prior to Ash Wednesday. This extravagant festival is filled with food, drink and dancing. It’s the perfect opportunity to blow off steam and indulge in treats before Lent when Christians traditionally give something up for 40 days.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and is a more reserved occasion. Many people attend mass, where priests draw the sign of the cross in ash on their foreheads. The ash is left untouched throughout the day, as a sign of repentance.

Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday) kicks off Semana Santa (Holy Week). Streets and churches are usually decorated, and you may see people waving palms on the streets and singing songs of praise. On Good Friday, the streets of Mexican towns are mostly closed to make way for the Passion Play, a sombre recreation of Jesus’ path to the cross. On Holy Saturday, some parts of Mexico burn effigies of Judas.

Easter Sunday is an exuberant occasion, church bells ring to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, then locals usually take to the streets which are lined with food vendors. Don’t expect to see any chocolate bunnies or Easter egg hunts, instead indulge in some delicious ice cream and other antojitos (Mexican street food).

Best places to celebrate Easter in Mexico

If you want to experience an authentic Mexican celebration, check out Cozumel during the Easter period. Remember, Easter celebrations in Mexico start well before Holy Week, between late February and early March Cozumel hosts an exhilarating Carnival. The island dazzles with decorations, extravagant costumes, colourful parades and street festivals along the seafront.

Cancun is another great place to spend the Easter break, with plenty of events and parties to keep you entertained day and night. Keep in mind that Mexican families from all over the country may travel during this time for a beach trip, as well as spring breakers. So, if you don’t like crowds then this might not be the best option. If that’s the case, book early and nab a hotel with a private beach or stay in an intimate beach house or treehouse hut in Tulum!

Best hotels to celebrate Easter in Mexico

Grand Park Royal Cozumel is an award-winning, 5-star resort that has an authentic feel thanks to its Mayan-inspired architecture and design. The resort features a private beach, so you can enjoy the crystal-clear Caribbean waters in complete bliss. You can also expect oceanfront jacuzzies, infinity pools, spa facilities and a fantastic kids club.

Iberostar Cozumel is a family-friendly beach resort, offering quality service and a relaxed vibe. Get in touch with nature and fall in love with the gorgeous jungle surroundings of this eco-resort. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to stay in bungalow suites with palm-thatched roofs. These suites add a rustic feel to your stay, without losing out on luxury. Located opposite the world’s second-largest barrier reef, this beachside resort has immaculate diving spots on its doorstep.