Mexico is set to experience its first long holiday weekend of 2025, offering students and families the chance to enjoy four consecutive days off. The combination of school closures on January 31 and February 3 marks this unique opportunity. Students from pre-school to high school will have the chance to take advantage of this break, according to the calendar established by the Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP).
The holiday weekend centers around the observance of the Mexican Constitution Day, which is celebrated annually on February 5. This year, the holiday is observed on Monday, February 3, allowing for the long weekend. The significance of this constitution stems from its promulgation on February 5, 1917, which established fundamental rights and duties for the country’s citizens.
According to reports, classes will be suspended on Friday, January 31 due to the ordinary session of the Consejo Técnico Escolar, making it the perfect segue to the important civic holiday. This ensures educational institutions across the 212 municipalities of Veracruz will observe these closures uniformly.
The Constitution day, revered as one of Mexico’s most significant national holidays, is not just about enjoying the time off, but also reflects on the historical efforts to establish the rights enshrined within the document. The Constitution is revered for multiple reasons: it lays down the structure of government powers and citizens' rights, and it is considered to be the ultimate governing law of the land.
On the subject of the importance of the Constitution, historian and educator Flor Rentería stated, "The Constitution forms the backbone of our rights as citizens. It’s important for students to understand the significance of this holiday beyond just taking time off from school." Such insights stress the need for educational reflection during these long breaks.
This year marks the 108th anniversary of the Constitution. Signed during the political upheaval following the Mexican Revolution, it has undergone numerous reforms since its inception; as of August 2016, it has been amended 699 times.
Generally, civic holidays such as these are infused with opportunities for educational reflection. Students are not merely free of classroom obligations; educators encourage them to utilize this time wisely, for review and consolidation of past lessons. Encouraging academic activities during such long weekends can reinforce what has been learned, according to Rentería.
This holiday falls under the provisions of the Ley Federal del Trabajo, which mandates time off for all employees on national holidays. Notably, if individuals are required to work on this day, they are entitled to triple their regular pay—something to keep in mind for companies and organizations.
While many families might already have plans to travel or celebrate, it's important to acknowledge the historical significance behind the holiday. The 1917 Constitution was developed following decades of conflict and is celebrated for addressing issues including land reform, labor rights, and education. The federal, state, and municipal powers outlined within it provide the framework for governance within the country, ensuring checks and balances among different branches.
While schools will enjoy two days off—January 31 and February 3—students and parents are still encouraged to spend part of the time engaging with educational materials at home. With the likelihood of cold weather affecting attendance, many educators stress the importance of remaining dedicated to learning even during breaks.
Looking beyond February, Mexican students and families can look forward to additional holidays and festivities. Despite their celebratory nature, there will be no classes on Valentine's Day, February 14, or on the Day of the Flag, February 24, as these holidays do not align with mandatory school closures.
This extended break provides ample opportunity for families to bond, recharge, and also instills civic responsibility among students, encouraging them to reflect upon their rights and responsibilities and how they relate to the nation they inhabit. While fun is high on the agenda, having this time reaffirmed through education reinforces the importance of historical awareness.
With February just around the corner, these upcoming days offer not just respite from school responsibilities but also remind everyone of the vibrant history and culture embedded within the country. Families are encouraged to balance leisure and learning as they come together during this notable holiday, making memories and cultivating knowledge.
Overall, the first long weekend of 2025 serves as both a festive occasion and as reminder of the historical struggles fought for rights and freedoms, ensuring the relevance of the Constitution remains alive within the national consciousness.