Mexican Traditions and Global Observances
November is a significant month for both Mexico and the world, with various celebrations and international days. One of Mexico’s most cherished traditions, the Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos), takes center stage at the beginning of this month. This pre-Hispanic custom, now showcased with pride to the world through altars honoring those who have passed using Mexican gastronomy, invites the departed to return for a visit.
November is the eleventh month in the Gregorian calendar, deriving its name from “novem” (nine) in Latin, as it occupied the ninth position in the Roman calendar. It’s also crucial for farmers, as it marks the junction of planting and harvesting seasons.
General Calendar Dates
- 1st November: World Vegan Day.
- 3rd November: World Sandwich Day and International Marketing Day.
- 4th November: UNESCO Day.
- 11th November: Bachelors’ Day.
- 13th November: World Kindness Day and World GIS Day.
- 16th November: International Flamenco Day and International Women Entrepreneurship Day.
- 19th November: World Toilet Day.
- 21st November: World Fish Day.
- 26th November: World Olive Oil Day.
- 27th November: Black Friday.
- 30th November: Influencer Day and Cyber Monday.
International Days
The United Nations (UN) has marked these international days:
- 2nd November: International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.
- 5th November: World Tsunami Awareness Day.
- 6th November: International Day for Prevention of Environmental Destruction in War and Armed Conflict.
- 9-15 November: International Week of Science and Peace.
- 10th November: World Science for Peace and Development Day.
- 14th November: World Diabetes Day.
- 16th November: International Tolerance Day and World Remembrance Day for Road Traffic Victims.
- 18-24 November: International Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week.
- 18th November: International Day for Prevention of Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence.
- 20th November: African Industrialization Day and Universal Children’s Day.
- 21st November: World Philosophy Day and World Television Day.
- 24th November: Twin Day.
- 25th November: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
- 26th November: World Car-Free Day.
- 29th November: International Solidarity Day with the Palestinian People and Remembrance Day for Victims of Chemical Warfare.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Day of the Dead? The Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) is a Mexican tradition celebrating and honoring deceased loved ones. It combines indigenous beliefs with Catholic elements from All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
- What is Black Friday? Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving in the United States, traditionally marking the start of the Christmas shopping season. It has since become a global retail phenomenon.
- What is Cyber Monday? Cyber Monday is the Monday following Thanksgiving in the United States, traditionally focusing on online shopping deals and discounts.
- What is World Tsunami Awareness Day? Observed on November 5th, this UN-designated day aims to raise awareness about the risk of tsunamis and promote community resilience.
- What is World Science for Peace and Development Day? Celebrated on November 10th, this UN-marked day promotes the application of science for peace and sustainable development.
- What is World Diabetes Day? Observed on November 14th, World Diabetes Day aims to assess the global impact of diabetes and advocate for prevention and care.
- What is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women? Marked on November 25th, this UN-designated day seeks to raise awareness about violence against women and girls.
- What is World Car-Free Day? Held on November 26th, World Car-Free Day encourages people to use alternative transportation methods for a day, promoting cleaner and healthier cities.