Mexico will celebrate Flag Day on February 24, paying tribute to one of its most important national symbols. This day honors the Mexican flag, which signifies the independence, unity, and cultural values of the nation. Established officially back in 1934 and recognized by President Lázaro Cárdenas as a national holiday since 1940, Flag Day marks the first hoisting of the flag following Mexico's independence.
A significant misconception surrounding Flag Day is whether or not it leads to the suspension of work and school activities. The Federal Labor Law (LFT) does not recognize February 24 as a public holiday, meaning all businesses and educational institutions will operate normally. According to the National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV), all banks will maintain their regular hours on Flag Day. This standard operating procedure is reflected across Mexico as many people inquire about the possibility of schools closing for this important date.
Educational establishments are expected to hold special events to highlight the day and deepen students' appreciation of their national identity. Schools across the country will conduct ceremonies such as flag hoisting and other civic activities to celebrate this culturally significant day. Many officials advocate for creating awareness among children about the importance of the flag and the values it embodies.
Despite the festive nature of Flag Day, the SEP emphasized there will be no suspension of classes, confirming students are expected to attend school as usual on February 24. This follows from the official SEP calendar, which designates the next mandatory holiday as happening only on March 17, 2025.
The flag's history dates back to the early years of Mexico's struggle for independence, with its official design featuring three vertical stripes of green, white, and red. At the center, it showcases the national emblem—an eagle devouring a serpent atop a prickly pear cactus. The design reflects the rich history of the nation, stemming from indigenous mythology and the quest for freedom from colonial rule.
Historically, the day of commemoration serves as much more than just observing the flag; it’s about recollecting the essence of Mexico as conceived by Agustín de Iturbide and Vicente Guerrero, who were instrumental figures during the independence movement. The Plan of Iguala, launched on February 24, 1821, laid foundational principles of independence, religion, and unity—principles strongly embodied by the flag and the ceremonies around it.
With Flag Day set for this year, families are encouraged to partake not just as onlookers but as active participants celebrating the significance of their heritage. Ceremonies around the flag serve as reminders of the values embedded within the national consciousness, including justice, liberty, and fraternity.
Expectations are high for events across various cities, where local governments and organizations plan celebrations and reflection activities. Children often take the lead during school ceremonies, arming themselves with insights about their country's history and the storied past of the flag they see every day. It’s about pride, awareness, and connection—indelible themes underscored each year on February 24.
To summarize, though Flag Day is significant and celebrated with ceremonies and rituals across the country, businesses and schools will remain open and running as usual. The next official holiday after Flag Day is on March 17, followed by other notable dates such as Labor Day on May 1 and Independence Day on September 16.