Easter in Mexico could not be more different than Easter in America. There are no bunnies laying eggs (how is that possible anyway) and you will not find any pastel colors plastered across the country. Instead, Easter in Mexico, or Semana Santa as they call it, lasts an entire week and is filled with richly decorated parades and festivities comparable to Spring Break or 4th of July for Americans
This holy week preceding Easter and one of the most celebrated periods in Mexico is a site everyone must see at least once. Although originally a solemn holiday filled with dietary restrictions, fasting and lengthy masses the tradition has changed into one of much more celebration and mainly vacation for resident Mexicans. Through out the week lavish parades are held with various extravagant floats re-enacting the different days leading to Jesus' death. Mexicans leave their day jobs to become actors imitating ancient scripture, participants or onlookers. Despite their role in the celebration the week has transformed into a general time of vacation for many Mexicans not excluding plenty of feasting and drinking.
Perhaps its because its the last week of lent and they will soon be able to relish in whatever sinful indulgences they gave up for 40 days. Whatever the reason, the beaches are packed, resorts are booked and the streets are filled with parades. Book any plans far ahead of time because reservations fill up fast due to this being the most popular time of year for Mexicans to vacation. In the meantime, celebrate hunts for eggs with cash or candy in them. Happy Easter!
Aleasha Stephens
