As Semana Santa 2025 approaches, municipalities across the State of Mexico and Mexico City are preparing to implement the Ley Seca, a prohibition on the sale of alcoholic beverages during this important religious period. This measure aims to maintain public order and ensure safety during the many religious festivities that characterize this time of year.
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, began on April 13, 2025, with "Domingo de Ramos" (Palm Sunday) and will culminate on April 20, 2025, with "Domingo de Resurrección" (Easter Sunday). During this week, numerous traditions take place, including Good Friday and Holy Saturday observances.
To maintain order during religious representations and gatherings, various municipalities in the State of Mexico have announced the implementation of the Ley Seca. This law prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages in commercial establishments such as bars, stores, and supermarkets, with the exception of restaurants and seafood establishments that serve food.
The municipalities in the State of Mexico that have confirmed the Ley Seca include:
- Metepec: The ban will be in effect from 00:00 hours on April 17 until 24:00 hours on Good Friday.
- San Mateo Atenco: Alcohol sales will be suspended from April 17 to April 20, 2025.
- Nezahualcóyotl: The measure will begin at 00:00 on April 17 and end at 23:59 on April 20, 2025, with exceptions for businesses primarily selling prepared foods with a valid license.
- Huixquilucan: The Ley Seca will be implemented from April 13 to April 20, 2025, throughout the municipality.
In Mexico City, the Ley Seca will also be enforced during Semana Santa. The following boroughs will be affected:
- Cuajimalpa: From April 17 to April 20, 2025, until 23:59 hours.
- Gustavo A. Madero: The ban will be in effect on April 17 and 18, 2025, from 00:00 to 24:00 hours.
- Magdalena Contreras: The Ley Seca will apply from April 17 to April 19, 2025.
- Milpa Alta: The ban will vary according to local carnivals, but it will generally be from April 9 to April 27, 2025.
- Xochimilco: From April 12 to April 21, 2025.
- Iztapalapa: On several dates, including April 6, 13, 20, 26, 27, and May 5, 2025.
- Tláhuac: From April 13 to April 27, 2025, depending on various local festivities.
In Iztapalapa, the Ley Seca will be enforced on April 17 and 18, 2025, from 00:00 to 23:59 hours, specifically in the eight neighborhoods where the traditional representation of the Passion of Christ takes place: San Ignacio, Santa Bárbara, La Asunción, San Lucas, San Pedro, San Miguel, San Pablo, and San José. This measure aims to prevent incidents during the event, which is expected to attract around two million attendees this year.
Cuajimalpa will also implement the Ley Seca starting on April 17 and ending on April 20, 2025. This restriction will cover all establishments, including liquor stores, grocery stores, supermarkets, bars, and any temporary sites where alcohol may be sold or given away. Violations of the Ley Seca will result in penalties for both individuals and establishments. Businesses that disregard the ban may face fines ranging from 39,712 to 282,850 pesos, while individuals caught consuming alcohol in public during the Ley Seca may be fined between 2,375 and 3,394 pesos or be required to perform community service ranging from 12 to 18 hours.
The Ley Seca is a longstanding tradition during Semana Santa, aimed at preserving order and public safety. Authorities have noted a correlation between excessive alcohol consumption and violent behavior, which is why they enforce this prohibition during such a significant religious observance.
While some municipalities have confirmed the Ley Seca, others, like Hidalgo, will not implement such measures, allowing bars, restaurants, and alcohol vendors to operate normally during the holy days.
As the holiday approaches, residents and visitors in affected areas are advised to prepare accordingly, ensuring they have made arrangements to enjoy the festivities without the availability of alcoholic beverages. This year's Semana Santa promises to be a time of reflection and celebration, with the Ley Seca serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment during these cherished traditions.
