Mexican Traditions
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Mexican Traditions |
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Meal TimeBreakfast is usually light with coffee or toast and then, a second “brunch” with eggs, tortillas and refried beans is enjoyed at around 10:30 a.m.
There is an additional meal after “siesta,” (nap time) which usually begins after 1:00 p.m. and ends around 5:00 p.m. that Mexican families enjoy. This is called “merienda”. The meal usually consists of coffee, or hot chocolate with sweet breads from the bakery such as “conchas,” “orejas,” muffins, etc.
Supper usually occurs later in the evening than in the USA. Usually, dinner begins around 8:00 p.m. although many local families enjoy a late 10 p.m. dinner.
BirthdaysA birthday is big deal even for first-year celebrations. The party is usually a family function which consists of children of all ages as well as adults of all ages. There are popular centers for holding these affairs. Parties usually begin about an hour after the time indicated on the invitations. Normally parties are held in the evening and you will be invited to dinner as well as cake and a piñata.
On a young girl’s 15th birthday, she is “officially” introduced into the social circuit by having a huge gala affair including a church ceremony where she will be dressed in white with a dress that is remarkably similar to a wedding dress. She will have a formal style party similar to a wedding reception with “padrinos,” (godfather/mother), flower girls, and the works. The girl will share her first dance with her father or brother if the father isn’t available, and then they will all participate in lots of dancing and picture-taking. This is an important birthday in a girl’s life and if you have a chance in participating in a friend’s birthday, this will make it even more special, I’m sure.
Siesta TimeGenerally speaking, Mexican people like to stay up late, get up early, get their work done, and take a little nap in the afternoon. Many people partake in this custom. It's logical to be inside or in the shade somewhere during the hottest time of the day. Many businesses close from about 1:00 p.m. until about 5:00 p.m. or later. They open again in the afternoon and stay open until 9 or 10:00.
Mexican TimeThe old-fashioned custom of being late still persists. I call it old-fashioned because the trend is changing among the next generation. The children are usually punctual. When you are invited to a birthday party by a Mexican family, you will surprise your hosts if you arrive on time since they will still be getting ready. Unless the invitation stesses punctuality, then you should arrive about a half-hour late. Consider not being late if you know they are people that work around a schedule, or if the occassion is for an American.
