On Monday, March 17, 2025, Mexicans will commemorate the birth of one of the nation’s most celebrated presidents, Benito Juárez, with various government and public services modified across the country. The day, officially recognized as March 21, is observed on the third Monday of March under Mexican law, creating an extended weekend for citizens.
All government offices, including municipal, state, and federal agencies, will be closed to the public as part of this mandatory rest day. Emergency services, including police and paramedics, are set to maintain normal operations to respond to any emergencies. The Prosecutor's Office will have personnel available to receive reports, address crimes, and process evidence, ensuring the safety of the community remains intact during the holiday.
Both the municipal police and the state police will patrol areas, ensuring public safety, along with fire services and medical teams from RESCATE and URGE which will be ready for any urgencies throughout the day.
For those who may need to handle banking matters during this holiday, bank branches across the nation will also close their doors. Users, unfortunately, will not be able to access indoor banking services. Nonetheless, electronic services such as ATMs, digital, electronic, and telephone banking will remain available 24 hours. A few bank branches located within commercial strips or supermarkets might operate under their usual hours, albeit selectively.
Commemorations around Benito Juárez focus on his enduring legacy—a leader who made significant strides for Mexico as it transitioned to a modern government structure. Juárez, who was born on March 21, 1806, grew up to become the first Indigenous president of Mexico and was pivotal during tumultuous times, including the French intervention and the establishment of the secular state through various reforms.
Interestingly, Juárez is often referred to as the president with the shortest stature, standing at just 1.37 meters tall throughout his adult life. His predecessors, such as Francisco I. Madero, who measured between 1.48 and 1.57 meters, followed him, creating a unique legacy entwined with tales of height and governance.
Beyond public sectors, the transportation services will also experience adjustments due to the holiday. The Metrobus will operate from 5:00 AM to midnight, and services along all lines will observe new schedules to accommodate travelers. Similar changes will occur for the Metro, which will welcome passengers from 7:00 AM until midnight. Meanwhile, specific services for the Trolleybus and Light Rail will run under altered time frames, ensuring public transportation remains accessible even on the holiday.
On March 21, when Benito Juárez's birth is officially celebrated, various educational and civic events are likely to take place, promoting his values and contributions to Mexico’s national identity. Juárez's commitment to secularism and the law helped to shape modern Mexican society and his legacy continues to resonate with citizens today.
Residents are encouraged to observe the holiday by taking advantage of the extended weekend, reflecting on both the historical significance of Juárez and the contributions he made to the separation of church and state, which still influences the country’s political framework.
Individuals should also prepare for closures by planning their errands accordingly, especially if these involve banking transactions or other public services.
Overall, March 17, 2025, offers not only relaxation and recreation for many, but also serves as a reminder of Mexico's rich history and the visionary leadership of Benito Juárez. His motto, "El respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz"—Respect for others' rights is peace—remains relevant as Mexicans celebrate their multicultural heritage.