Ash Wednesday (Miércoles de Ceniza) marks the end of the Carnival season and the start of Lent in Catholic churches across Mexico.
Is Ash Wednesday a Public Holiday?
Ash Wednesday is not a public holiday. Businesses have normal opening hours.
Celebrate Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, which ends before Easter Sunday. Priests mark churchgoers’ foreheads with ashes in form of a cross to symbolize the forgiveness of sins and to reaffirm one’s faith in God. Prior to the day, streets in cities and towns are bustling with parades, floats, costumes and music to celebrate Carnival. This festival marks the last days to enjoy the things that are abstained or given up on Ash Wednesday.
Public Life
Ash Wednesday is a religious observance and not a national public holiday in Mexico. During the days leading up to this day, access to streets in some cities and towns may be difficult for vehicles due to Carnival related festivities.
About Ash Wednesday
Catholic churches across Mexico and worldwide mark Ash Wednesday as the beginning of the season of Lent. Lent symbolizes the 40 days that Jesus spent in the desert. It is observed as a time of penance, prayer, and fasting or abstinence.
Did You Know?
Ash Wednesday has never occurred on a Leap Day (February 29) – the first time this happens will be in 2096!
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