March 2025 is shaping up to be quite the month for students and workers across Mexico, with three anticipated long weekends on the horizon as the country honors historical figures and milestones. The most notable holiday is undoubtedly the commemoration of the birth of Benito Juarez on March 21, which has been shifted to create a long weekend for all.
The first of these long weekends will occur from Saturday, March 15, through Monday, March 17, allowing both students and workers to enjoy three consecutive days off. This holiday aligns with the commemoration of Benito Juarez, Mexico's revered president from 1858 to 1872, who is celebrated for his contributions to the nation and for promoting key liberal reforms.
Under the Mexican Federal Labor Law, March 21 is officially recognized as a day of rest, especially for those working within public sectors. Due to the timing of the holiday this year, the observance is moved to the nearest Monday, allowing for the long weekend, with classes suspended at all levels of basic education on this day.
Following the lucrative break on March 17, the students will also receive two additional breaks later in the month. The second long weekend will occur from Friday, March 21, for Registration of Qualifications, through Sunday, March 23. This day off, also included within the academic calendar set by the Secretariat of Public Education (SEP), is significant as it coincides with important administrative tasks within schools.
March will conclude with yet another long weekend, with student activities paused on Friday, March 28, due to the Technical School Council meeting. This additional day off will provide students with even more leisure time, extending their holiday well past the halfway mark of the month.
To summarize the extensive breaks for March, students will take off:
- Saturday, March 15 to Monday, March 17 - Birth of Benito Juarez
- Friday, March 21 - Registration of Qualifications
- Friday, March 28 - Technical School Council
This creates a unique situation where students will be attending classes only three days during the week of March 18-20.
On the worker's side, labor laws stipulate distinct pay regulations if employees are required to work during these national holidays. They are entitled to their standard pay, plus a supplementary payment equivalent to double their daily salary. Essentially, this could mean workers earning three times the normal pay if they work on March 17.
Interestingly, these shifts to the current holiday schedule stem from reforms codified back in 2006 under then-President Vicente Fox. The purpose of this adjustment was to incentivize domestic tourism and give workers and families opportunities for extended breaks. The adjustments apply to holidays like March 21 and others throughout the year, paving the way for long weekends to become commonplace.
Looking more broadly, the calendar for 2025 includes several more significant holidays. Following the March breaks, the next holiday will be on May 1 for International Workers' Day. Other prominent dates include:
- September 16 - Independence Day
- November 17 - Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution
- December 25 - Christmas
These holidays are officially recognized within the Labor Law and allow for designated breaks, ensuring both students and workers receive periodic opportunities to rest and recharge throughout the year.
But what does this mean for families? With more long weekends on the calendar, this creates ample space for traveling or enjoying family time. Many families are expected to plan short trips away during these breaks, utilizing the days off for leisure and connection, making the upcoming March breaks not just about relaxation, but also about strengthening bonds and creating memories.
March is not only ushering spring but also beckoning many to take advantage of these favorable breaks. Whether it’s holding family gatherings, indulging in local festivities, or planning quick getaways, the upcoming long weekends will surely be transforming and memorable.
So as we approach these forthcoming holidays, it's beneficial for individuals and families to stay informed about the calendar changes. Knowing the dates and reasoning helps reinforce the cultural and historical significance of these celebrations.