The culture of Mexico is largely determined by ancient traditions and customs. That is why the majority of the holidays and festivals here are of religious or pagan nature. The Catholic Epiphany, or the Day of the Holy Kings, reminds the Mexicans of the Bethlehem night. For children, this is the most favorite holiday - they receive a lot of gifts, even more than at Christmas. Regarding Christmas, Mexicans celebrate it almost for a month, from the beginning of December to January 6. In early December, the city of Mexico is decorated with Christmas scenes, Christmas trees, and markets. The so-called, Christmas season begins with the celebration devoted to Our Lady of Guadalupe - the patroness of Mexico. By the way, the before-mentioned holiday the Day of the Holy Kings (January 6) is also included to the Christmas season, as well as the Day of Candles, which falls on the February 2. During all Christmas season, you will not get bored, as far as every day here passes or religious procession or the parade of musicians.
`The brightest and favorite event held in winter - is the Carnival in Mexico. A week before Lent, the streets of Mexico explode with hundreds of bright lights and sounds. Officially, the holiday takes place for five days, during which many carnival participants go out in the street only in masks. According to the ancient tradition, carnival masks have the property of scaring off evil spirits. As soon as carnival ends, the Great Lent enters into force. Every year during the carnival, the city of Mexico hosts more than three hundred thousand guests and tourists, which by attendance puts the Carnival in Mexico to third place after the Brazilian and New Orleans carnivals. Carnival week ends with all kinds of competitions and festivals. At the very end of the carnival, during the comic ballot people choose "The Scary King" and the Queen of Carnival. Moreover, the best of the joke is the Day of the Oppressed Men. On this day, for twenty-three and a half hours, offended husbands can do whatever they want (naturally, within the limits of religion and the state).
Read further...