As the Day of the Mothers approaches, millions of families in Mexico are gearing up to celebrate one of the most cherished figures in any household: the mother. Every year on May 10, this special day is marked by heartfelt tributes, family gatherings, and a variety of activities designed to honor mothers across the nation. However, many people often wonder about the official status of this day in terms of work and school, as well as the origins of this beloved celebration.
According to the Secretariat of Public Education (SEP), May 10, 2025, is not an obligatory holiday, meaning it is not marked as an official suspension of classes. However, since this year the date falls on a Saturday, public schools will not have activities at any level. Many schools, especially at the basic level, often hold festivals or gatherings prior to May 10, typically on the Friday before, which is May 9, 2025. Parents with children in primary or preschool are likely to see some form of celebration leading up to this important day.
On the work front, the Federal Labor Law is clear: May 10 is not included in the list of mandatory rest days. This means that employers are not legally required to grant the day off or pay double for those who work. Nevertheless, many companies, particularly in the private sector, implement internal policies to promote family life. These may include allowing employees to leave early, granting half a day off to working mothers, or organizing office celebrations. If you're unsure about your company's policy, it's best to check directly with your supervisor or human resources department.
While many families are preparing to show their appreciation for mothers with gifts and celebrations, Clara Brugada, the head of Government of Mexico City, has made a unique appeal. On May 2, 2025, during a visit to the Gustavo A. Madero borough, she urged residents not to gift home appliances to mothers this Saturday. Brugada explained that giving items like irons and blenders perpetuates the notion that mothers are solely responsible for household chores. "The Day of the Mothers should be a day of freedom; it should be a day when children serve their mothers," she emphasized, encouraging families to prepare meals for their mothers instead.
In line with this celebration, Brugada invited mothers to a concert featuring the renowned singer Lupita D'Alessio, scheduled for the Zócalo at 7 PM on May 10. She encouraged women to arrive early, around 6 PM, to secure a good spot for the musical event, which promises to be a highlight of the day.
The origins of Mother's Day in Mexico date back to 1922, when journalist Rafael Alducín, founder of the newspaper Excélsior, proposed the idea of honoring mothers. His initiative gained support from various sectors, including the Church and the government, which viewed the celebration as a way to exalt the role of women in family life. The choice of May for this celebration aligns with the tradition of dedicating the month to the Virgin Mary, a practice rooted in historical, religious, and symbolic significance.
Globally, Mother's Day has even older roots. In ancient Greece, tributes were paid to Rhea, the mother of the gods. The modern version of Mother's Day gained popularity in the United States thanks to Anna Jarvis, who organized the first formal tribute in 1908. By 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday of May as Mother's Day, a celebration that has since spread worldwide, albeit on different dates.
In Mexico, the 10th of May is a day filled with love, gratitude, and recognition for those who nurture and support families. While some may feel pressured to spend lavishly on gifts, there are many simple and heartfelt ways to honor mothers without breaking the bank. Handwritten letters expressing love and appreciation, breakfast in bed, homemade coupons for favors, and photo albums filled with cherished memories can be far more meaningful than material gifts.
As families prepare for this year's celebrations, various events are also set to take place across the country. In Mérida, for instance, the Gran Parque La Plancha will host a series of activities on May 10 and 11, 2025. The festivities will kick off on May 10 at 6:30 PM with a performance by the Ecos del Mayab folk ballet, followed by regional Mexican music from Mateo and a tribute show to Juan Gabriel. Additionally, there will be a contest dubbed "La Chancla Voladora," allowing mothers to showcase their unique skills.
For movie lovers, outdoor screenings will take place on both evenings, featuring "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" on May 10 and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" on May 11, starting at 7:30 PM. Families are encouraged to use public transportation to the park to avoid parking hassles, as the area is well served by various bus routes.
Ultimately, the Day of the Mothers is about celebrating the invaluable contributions of mothers and recognizing their roles in shaping families and communities. Whether through grand gestures or simple acts of love, this day serves as a reminder to show appreciation for the women who give so much of themselves every day. As families come together to honor their mothers, it’s clear that the spirit of this celebration is rooted in love, respect, and gratitude.
