Mexico is one of the most visited countries in the entire world.   It is the 14th largest country by land area, and it has been the primary destination of choice among tourists for years.  Mexican culture is perhaps one of the most interesting cultures in the world. One great way of experiencing the Mexican culture is through its food, religion, language, and holidays.

• Religion
Catholicism is the dominant religion in Mexico. Majority of Mexicans (89%) identify themselves as Catholic; while a smaller percentage (6%) identify themselves as Protestant and the other 5% of the population practice different religions or have no religion at all.

• Food

The Mexican dishes are well known for their unique flavor, decoration and the variety of spices that are added to each meal. Many mouth-watering dishes like burritos, enchiladas, and tacos originated in Mexico. Each Mexican region offers different Mexican food. In the north of Mexico, meat dishes are very popular. In the south region, vegetables and chicken are widely used as the main ingredients. However, the number one ingredient in traditional Mexican food isn’t meat, veggies or chicken: Its Chili! Chili pepper is the most-used ingredient in traditional Mexican food. Even traditional Mexican desserts have chili in them. The chili helps create a nice blending of hot and sweet.

• Language

Spanish control of Mexico led to the dominance of Spanish as the official language. The government also recognizes 62 indigenous Amerindian (American Indian) languages as national languages, including Aztec and other Mayan languages.

• Major Holidays

Mexico’s Independence Day is celebrated on September 16^th in honor of the country’s independence from Spanish rule in 1810. Every year at 11 p.m. on Sept. 15, in Mexico City, Mexico’s president rings the bell of the National Palace. He then repeats a patriotic cry and shouts, “¡Viva México!” three times and waves the Mexican flag. The next day people gather in the town squares to see fireworks, dance and watch parades. Some cities mark the occasion with bullfights.

Day of the dead (Día de los Muertos) is celebrated between October 31^st and November 2^nd across Mexico. It is a time to welcome the souls of the dead. Mexicans visit cemeteries, decorate the graves and spend time with the spirits of their deceased friends and family members. In addition, there are foods and symbolic gifts that are placed on altars as offerings for the spirits.

Mexican culture is incredibly rich and diverse. It is just one in a long list of great Cougar Cultures!  If you have a recommendation for the next culture to feature, drop Mr. Sullivan a note in room 129!