New Mexico's history, architecture, and art are strongly rooted in Spanish settlers' traditions, and immigrants from Latin America are still moved by them up to this day. The customs and culture have an important influence throughout the town, from street names to adobe architecture to graphics, dancing and music.

One of the easiest ways to improve the perception of Spanish language is to understand as much about the customs of Spanish heritage as you can. The practices are an important aspect of any civilization.

Spain, and other Spanish-speaking countries such as Mexico, are filled with unusual customs, and they may only encourage you to plan a visit.

Wherever you are in a Spanish course, you will enjoy some of the festivals, holidays and customs of the Mexican and Spanish customs on this list.

Piñata
(Photo : Flickr)

Spanish Traditions

Piñatas

Most people might have seen cardboard piñatas on kids birthday parties adorned with brightly-colored paper. The blindfolded players try and hit the piñata with a stick, rip open and spill out inside fruit, candy and other goodies.

The actual root of piñata is debated a lot. Many people think they came from China, animal types such as cows and bovines. Many sources claim that piñatas were created with gods and emerged in Mexico from the Aztecs and Mayans.

While spiritual meaning lies in the history of the piñata, current piñatas are often used for party and celebration games. It is also one of the Mexican traditions that is most widely popular.

Carnival

Carnival celebrations are held in the Spanish-speaking countries between the end of January and the beginning of March, prior to Lent.

The final hurrah to enjoy Carnival before Lent is generally known. During most of the day and the night there are many parties, including dance and music. Carnival Spanish rituals include costume dressing and wearing.


Mexican Traditions

Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe

On December 12, each year in Mexico, faithful Catholics go to Mexico City every pilgrimage to the Basilica of Guadalupe. This date is commemorating the Virgin Mary's presence in 1531 with Juan Diego.

Nobody thought that Juan Diego actually saw the Virgin and the people had asked him to return with evidence. As was told in the story, The Virgin reappeared and asked him to collect in his coat flowers.

He came back to see Mexico City's archbishop and removed the flowers. A beautiful image of the Virgin had developed on the product that is shown in the basilica today. Many Mexican rituals like this one have religious meaning.

Día de la Independencia

Día de la Independencia occurs on the 16th of September, however the night prior begins when the President of Mexico rings the bell and yells "Vida México!" It's one of Mexico's most famous practices.

Every year on September 16,  national military parades are held and people are adorned with the colors of the flag, tossed confetti and held parties to mark Mexico's independence from the Spanish colonization.

Spanish Holidays

Día de los Muertos

It is important to remember families and friends who have passed through in Hispanic cultures. Dia de los Muertos is an important day in Mexico, celebrated on 1 and 2 November.

Mexican practices blend Catholic elements with Aztec rites for Día de los Muertos. People make shrines with images, food as well as other objects in their homes, that have some connection with the departed.

People even visit the tombs of their loved ones where they could spend countless hours or even a whole day.

Semana Santa

Semana Santa (Holy Week) is running from Palm Sunday to Paschal Sunday and it is one of Catholic countries ' main events of the year.

During Easter, various regions of Mexico host special events. Many festivities of Week Santa include the dramatization of the Passion of Christ ("Christ's Passion"): cascarones, religious services and Passion Play.

Spanish Superstitions

Sweeping Over Feet

Some Hispanic customs suggest this person would never be married if you sweep across someone's feet. It is also assumed that a reverse sprout will halt unwanted visitors behind your doorstep.

Cutting Babies' Hair

Maybe you want to think twice before you trim the hair of your baby. In Spanish superstition, the trimming of the hair of a child before it learns to walk would prevent it.

Also, do not cut off his or her hair until turning one, if you want to teach your son or daughter how to speak Spanish.