Mexican Traditions in Cozumel


Most people enjoy an early breakfast of coffee and toast. Later in the morning, usually at work, everyone takes a break for breakfast. That is when they get something salty, which can be eggs and bacon,or tacos, chilaquiles, or a mexican bread sandwich called a 'torta'.
Lunch is usually later in the afternoon, like 2 or 3 pm, after the children get home from school, and everyone takes off for the afternoon. Then it's time for a nap, or siesta time. There is an additional meal after “siesta,” (nap time) which usually begins after 1:00 p.m. and ends around 5:00 p.m. that Mexican families enjoy. This is called “merienda”. The meal usually consists of coffee, or hot chocolate with sweet breads from the bakery such as “conchas,” “orejas,” muffins, etc.

Supper usually occurs later in the evening than in the USA. Usually, dinner begins around 8:00 p.m. although many local families enjoy a late 10 p.m. dinner.
About 2 or 3 am, if you are still awake, you'll see the many taco stands, and hot dog stands fill up for an early morning snack.

CozumelStreetfood.jpg LaCocaySalmon.jpg CharritasDish2.jpg ChilangosTortillas.jpg


On a young girl’s 15th birthday, she is “officially” introduced into the social circuit by having a huge gala affair including a church ceremony where she will be dressed in white with a dress that is remarkably similar to a wedding dress. She will have a formal style party similar to a wedding reception with “padrinos,” (godfather/mother), flower girls, and the works. The girl will share her first dance with her father or brother if the father isn’t available, and then they will all participate in lots of dancing and picture-taking. This is an important birthday in a girl’s life and if you have a chance in participating in a friend’s birthday, this will make it even more special, I’m sure.

Siesta Time
Generally speaking, Mexican people like to stay up late, get up early, get their work done, and take a little nap in the afternoon. Many people partake in this custom. It's logical to be inside or in the shade somewhere during the hottest time of the day. Many businesses close from about 1:00 p.m. until about 5:00 p.m. or later. They open again in the afternoon and stay open until 9 or 10:00.

Mexican Time
The old-fashioned custom of being late still persists. I call it old-fashioned because the trend is changing among the next generation. The children are usually punctual. When you are invited to a birthday party by a Mexican family, you will surprise your hosts if you arrive on time since they will still be getting ready. Unless the invitation stesses punctuality, then you should arrive about a half-hour late. Consider not being late if you know they are people that work around a schedule, or if the occassion is for an American.

Click here for CVH Home Page