Teacher's Day in Mexico (Día del Maestro)

Date: May 15th annually

History: Teacher's Day in Mexico was first celebrated on May 15, 1918. The choice of the date is associated with Saint John Baptist de la Salle, who was canonized on May 24, 1900, and declared Patron Saint of Educators in 1950 by Pope Pius XII. His feast was originally on May 15, which led to the adoption of this date for Teacher's Day.

Traditions:

• Recognition Ceremonies: Schools and educational institutions host events to honor and recognize the dedication and work of teachers.
• Gifts and Flowers: Students and parents often give gifts, flowers, or tokens of appreciation to teachers.
• Cultural Events: Some schools organize cultural programs, performances or special activities where students showcase their talents as a tribute to their educators.
• Government Acknowledgment: The government may hold official ceremonies where outstanding educators receive awards or recognition for their service.
• Social Gatherings: Teachers may be treated to lunches or dinners either by the school administration or parent associations.

Activities: On Teacher’s Day, classes are typically suspended to allow celebrations. People take the time to express gratitude towards educators who have made a significant impact on their lives. In some places, alumni revisit their old schools to pay homage to their former teachers.

Note: While these practices are common, specific activities can vary widely across different regions and institutions within Mexico.