Constitution Day

Mexico’s Constitution Day, known as Día de la Constitución, commemorates the promulgation of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States on February 5, 1917. It was adopted in Santiago de Querétaro during the Mexican Revolution under the leadership of Venustiano Carranza, replacing the Constitution of 1857 while retaining many liberal principles and introducing reforms demanded by revolutionary movements.

The Constitution of 1917 is historically significant for its emphasis on social rights. It established important provisions concerning public education, labor protections, land ownership and agrarian reform, and the relationship between the state and religious institutions. Articles 3, 27, and 123 became especially influential, addressing education, national control of land and natural resources, and workers’ rights. Although the Constitution has been amended many times, it remains the foundation of Mexico’s political and legal system.

In 2026, the official public holiday will be observed on Monday, February 2, because Mexican law designates the first Monday of February as a mandatory day of rest in commemoration of February 5. This creates a long weekend, commonly called a puente, while preserving the historical connection to the 1917 Constitution. The date also reflects Mexico’s broader constitutional tradition, which includes the earlier Constitution of 1857 and the country’s continuing civic debates about democracy, equality, and social justice.

Constitution Day is marked by civic ceremonies, official speeches, flag honors, and public readings or discussions about the Constitution. Government institutions, schools, and civic organizations may organize commemorations emphasizing national sovereignty, democratic institutions, citizens’ rights, and the historical sacrifices of the Mexican Revolution. Mexican flags are displayed prominently, and cultural programs may include presentations about the Constituent Congress of 1916–1917 and the significance of Querétaro.

For many people, the holiday is also a day away from work and school, making it one of Mexico’s characteristic long weekends. Families may use the puente for short trips, visits to relatives, outdoor activities, or time in plazas and historic centers. There is no single nationwide dish uniquely associated with Constitution Day; meals commonly enjoyed during the weekend may include tacos, tamales, pozole, enchiladas, or regional specialties, often shared in a family setting or at local restaurants and markets.

Formal greetings may include “¡Feliz Día de la Constitución!” or “¡Feliz Día de la Constitución Mexicana!” In more civic or ceremonial settings, people may say “¡Viva México!” or refer to the Constitution as the foundation of the nation’s rights and democratic life. Because the holiday is primarily commemorative rather than religious, celebrations generally focus on civic remembrance, historical education, national symbols, and relaxation during the February long weekend.