As Semana Santa 2025 approaches, millions of people across Mexico are gearing up for one of the most anticipated holiday seasons of the year. This period, which runs from April 14 to April 25 for students and teachers in basic education, is not only a time for reflection and faith but also a chance for many to escape the pressures of work and school.
According to the Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP), the official vacation schedule for basic education includes a break from Monday, April 14 to Friday, April 25, 2025. Students in higher education institutions will have varying schedules: those in preparatories and high schools will observe a break from April 11 to April 15, while the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) will be off from April 14 to April 18, and the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) will pause from April 17 to April 25.
For many, Semana Santa is a time to travel to beach destinations or magical towns, participate in religious celebrations, or simply relax and recharge. The National Business Council for Tourism (CNET) highlights that this is one of the busiest vacation seasons of the year, only behind December and summer.
Key dates for Catholic believers during Semana Santa include:
- Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday): April 13
- Jueves Santo (Holy Thursday): April 17
- Viernes Santo (Good Friday): April 18
- Sábado de Gloria (Holy Saturday): April 19
- Domingo de Resurrección (Easter Sunday): April 20
While many people assume that these days are mandatory holidays, the Ley Federal del Trabajo (LFT) does not recognize Jueves Santo and Viernes Santo as official rest days. This means that employers are not obligated to grant these days off, and employees who work on these days do not receive double pay unless specified in their contracts.
However, many public sector workers do enjoy a break on April 17 and 18, and banks and financial institutions will suspend operations in accordance with the official calendar set by the Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV). This provides a much-needed respite for many, allowing them to plan their finances accordingly.
During Semana Santa 2025, banks will close their branches on Jueves Santo and Viernes Santo, resuming normal operations on Monday, April 21. Customers are advised to complete any necessary transactions by Wednesday, April 16, to avoid delays. Notably, Banco Azteca will remain open on these days, operating from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Despite the closures, various banking services will still be available through online platforms, mobile applications, and ATMs, ensuring that customers can manage their finances without interruption.
For those looking to explore cultural events during Semana Santa, Mexico City offers a variety of activities. The largest representation of the Passion of Christ takes place in Iztapalapa, attracting thousands each year. Other events include a book fair at the Monumento a la Revolución and the Spora Festival in Chapultepec Park, featuring over 260 activities related to nature and mushrooms.
As families plan their vacations, it’s essential to note the significance of the upcoming holidays. While Jueves Santo and Viernes Santo may not be mandatory rest days for all workers, students and teachers will enjoy their well-deserved break. For many, this period is an opportunity to connect with family, reflect on their faith, or simply unwind.
Looking ahead, there are additional holidays to anticipate after Semana Santa. On May 1, workers will observe Día del Trabajo (Labor Day), followed by a school bridge on May 5 for students commemorating the Batalla de Puebla. September 16 marks Día de la Independencia, a mandatory national holiday, while November 20 celebrates Día de la Revolución Mexicana, also recognized as a day off.
In summary, Semana Santa 2025 not only serves as a significant religious observance but also as a vital time for rest and rejuvenation for millions of Mexicans. With careful planning, individuals can make the most of this holiday season, whether through travel, family gatherings, or enjoying local festivities.
