“Día del Padre” a highly important holiday in Mexican culture

Father’s Day is actually an international holiday. But, have you ever wondered how Mexicans celebrate Dad’s special day?

In Yucatán, just like all other “fiestas” and holidays, they celebrate Father’s Day on a more festival scale then they do here in the States.

Here are a 4 important things that you should know about the celebration of Father’s Day in Mexico:

Father’s Day is Not Just for Dad

The Mexican people not only honor their fathers on the third Sunday in June every year, but they also look to father-like figures. For example, they honor grandfathers, step-fathers, big brothers, and other important men in their lives.

The Celebration Itself

In Mexico, people show their thanks to their fathers by giving them gifts, such as greeting cards and ties, similarly to people in the United States.

In Mexico City they came up with the idea about 20 years ago of having Father’s Day Running Race. This was conceived as a bonding opportunity in which fathers and their children can spend a day outside running a road race side by side.

Food

Just like almost every other festival and holiday that is celebrated in Mexico, food has an important role in the celebration of Father’s Day. Early in the morning there is an enormous meal prepared that includes all of Dad’s favorite foods. And you can’t forget about dessert! The meal is finished off with Mexican chocolates or the traditional dessert of pan dulce (sweet bread with delicious toppings).

More recently, many people treat their dad and grandad to a restaurant, and stay there for long hours eating, drinking and basically enjoying some quality time in family.

Celebracíon de la familia (Celebration of the Family)

Mexican people traditionally have found family quite important. The Mexican tradition has strong foundations in the idea of unity within the family. Father’s Day in Mexico is a time for the family to spend time together. This is an important day of the year for all because they have the opportunity to honor the important men in their lives.

Mexico always has some of the best celebrations in the world, and as you can tell Father’s Day is no different.