Mother’s Day in Mexico always falls on May 10, no matter what day of the week as opposed to Mother’s Day in the US that falls on the second Sunday in May.  In Mexico Mother’s Day is celebrated in high fashion.  According to custom daughters and sons make themselves present on the eve of Mother’s Day, May 9.  Children honor their mothers and thank them for their efforts in raising them.

May 10^th is celebrated in a grand style as churches organize special mass services.  The highpoint of the event is when “las Mañanitas” is played.  Tamales and atole, the traditional morning meal, are distributed to all mothers.

Flowers and cards are commonly given to mothers as well as giving of gifts. Older children purchase gifts from the store while younger children prepare handmade gifts for their mothers.  Most schools have mother’s day events where the children perform skits and songs to express thanks for their mothers.

Labor Day in Mexico

May 1

May 1 is Labor Day in Mexico and commemorates the Mexican workers’ union movement and means no government office is open. There are no banks, postal services, and many restaurants close as well. Labor Day isn’t always about a day off but has been used as a time to peacefully protest issues that might arise with a particular employer or employees work.  Several labor unions unite together in protest to get better treatment, health benefits and working conditions.

In Cabo most restaurants and  shops remain open.  Local people enjoy their day off by going to one of the beautiful beaches and being with family and friends.