Mexico Observes Public Holiday on Monday, February 2 for Constitution Day and Candlemas
MEXICO CITY, January 30, 2026 – The first long weekend of the year arrives for Mexico on Monday, February 2, 2026, as the nation observes a federal public holiday. The day commemorates Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) and coincides with the religious celebration of Día de la Candelaria (Candlemas). Government offices, banks, and schools will be closed, and the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) will suspend trading.
Constitution Day: A Moveable Holiday
Constitution Day, which officially falls on February 5, is observed on the first Monday of February to create a long weekend, as per Mexican labor law. The holiday celebrates the ratification of Mexico’s current constitution on February 5, 1917. This year, the observance date is Monday, February 2.
Candlemas: A Day of Tradition and Tamales
February 2 also marks Día de la Candelaria, a significant day in Mexican and Latin American culture rooted in Catholic tradition. Families who found the baby figurine in their Rosca de Reyes on Three Kings Day (January 6) traditionally host a gathering on Candlemas, serving tamales and atole. The day sees heightened activity for tamale vendors across the country.
Other Developments for February 2
Beyond the holiday, February 2 will see the full inauguration of Mexico City’s “El Insurgente” bus rapid transit line. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the final leg from Santa Fe to Observatorio will open on that date. Additionally, a public comment period for a U.S. Federal Register notice on site security regulations closes on February 2.
Key Facts & Holiday Details
| Holiday/Observance | Details for Monday, February 2, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Constitution Day (Observed) | Federal public holiday. Official date is February 5. |
| Candlemas | Cultural and religious celebration, not a federal holiday. |
| Stock Market | BMV (Mexican Stock Exchange) closed. |
| Valentine’s Day (Feb 14) | Not a federal public holiday in Mexico. |
| Historical Note | Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed on February 2, 1848. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Monday, February 2, 2026, a day off work in Mexico?
Yes. Monday, February 2, is a federal public holiday (Día de la Constitución) in Mexico. Most government offices, banks, and many private businesses are closed.
What is the difference between Constitution Day and Candlemas?
Constitution Day is a secular, federal holiday commemorating the 1917 constitution. Candlemas is a religious and cultural feast day with traditions like sharing tamales. They coincidentally fall on the same calendar date this year.
Will public transportation run on the holiday?
While some services may operate on a reduced schedule, a major new transit line is scheduled to open. The “El Insurgente” BRT in Mexico City will inaugurate its final segment on February 2.
Is Valentine’s Day a public holiday in Mexico?
No. Valentine’s Day (February 14) is widely celebrated but is not an official federal public holiday. Businesses and schools operate as usual.