Current Time in Mexico
Mexican culture regarding time
Mexican culture regarding time
Sense of "Mexican time"
In Mexico, there is a flexible attitude toward appointment times, and being 10 to 30 minutes late is sometimes considered normal. This is called "Mexican time" and is a manifestation of a culture that values human relationships over time.
Late lunch and long break
In Mexico, lunch time is set late, around 13:00 to 15:00, and a break of more than an hour is common. This time is considered an important time to spend with family.
Active at night
Dinner is often taken after 20:00, and gatherings with family and friends tend to take place in the evening. People often stay up late enjoying music and conversation.
Mexican values regarding time
A sense of time that prioritizes human relationships
In Mexico, trust with others and flexibility are more important than strictly adhering to time. Therefore, conversations and exchanges that go on longer than scheduled are welcomed.
Emphasis on on-site flow over schedule
It is common to start as soon as preparations are complete, without necessarily sticking to the scheduled start time. It is not uncommon for parties and local events to start one to two hours later than the invitation time.
Different sense of time in different regions
While large cities (such as Mexico City) tend to be relatively punctual, a more relaxed sense of time prevails in rural areas. The balance between urbanization and traditional culture differs from region to region.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Mexico
Allow yourself some leeway for meetings and business negotiations
Some delays may be tolerated in business situations, but it is safe for foreigners to arrive at the site with plenty of time to spare. A strict attitude towards time is also respected, so it is important to be flexible and adapt to the other person's style.
Public transport and services may be delayed
Bus and government service times are often only a guideline and may not run on time. Allow yourself some leeway in your schedule.
Pay attention to the times when you eat and shop
Restaurants are open from 2pm to 3pm, and some supermarkets are open until late at night. It is important to get used to the local time zone, as the rhythm of daytime activities is different.
Interesting trivia about Mexican time
The start time of the party is a guideline
At parties held in Mexican homes, people usually start gathering 1-2 hours after the time on the invitation. There is an unspoken understanding that "the real thing starts later."
The real thing on New Year's Eve lasts until late at night
On the night of December 31st, not only is there a countdown, but the main events are meals, fireworks, and dancing from late at night to early in the morning. The time after the New Year is the busiest.
Time flows more slowly during Holy Week (Semana Santa)
The week before Easter is celebrated as "Semana Santa," during which family trips and vacations take priority. Many stores close their doors for business, and time flows more slowly than usual.