Here in Mexico, Valentine’s Day is celebrated a little differently. Known as The Day of Love and Friendship, El Día del Amor y la Amistad, its focus is not solely on romantic connections, but is a day to be enjoyed amongst family, friends and other loved ones. While love and heart-themed cards, gifts and balloons still appear on the shelves of stores, as with the holiday in other parts of the world, they are bought for and exchanged as much between friends as they are for lovers.

In fact, in pre-pandemic times, local pizza restaurants and coffee shops would be buzzing with groups of friends coming together. Although the holiday was a lot quieter this year, that didn’t stop our English language students from finding other ways to enjoy the special day. We asked a handful of them from our teen groups what they did to celebrate.

Karen

I spent time with my family, as we couldn’t go out this year. But I had a great time watching films and eating pizza with my mom and my sister. We spoke to my aunts and uncles, and my cousins. It was one of my favorite days at home because I was with my family.I sent messages to my cousins and the family that are far away, who I couldn’t see because of everything going on. Those who I love a lot, I also sent cards to, so they know I miss and love them, as well as to wish them a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Pablo

I celebrated it with my family. I woke up really early to finish making a gift for a friend. I spent the whole afternoon making it. At 5pm I took it to her house and to my surprise she got me a present too, with a balloon! I went back home and had a little party with my family. We danced and sang. We had an excellent time.This year was really different. In previous years, I could go to the park or watch movies with my friends. We used to make each other cards. I didn’t have anyone special to make an effort with, like I did this year. It’s sad that we couldn’t go anywhere special because of the pandemic.

Stefany

I spent this Valentine’s Day with my mom. We stayed at home and ordered pasta, elotes and fruit smoothies that we enjoyed in front of a movie.This year, because of the pandemic, I couldn’t meet up with friends to celebrate, but I sent my closest friends messages reminding them of how much I love and appreciate them. I also posted on social media so that everyone is reminded that there is always someone out there who loves them.I couldn’t see my friends to exchange gifts like we normally do but it was different to spend it with my mom. I usually only see her in the evenings, but I spent the whole day with her this time. It was really beautiful.

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The best way to experience the Mexican lifestyle is in person, with a Na’atik Immersion experience. Not only do you live with a local Mexican-Maya family, sharing home-cooked meals and free time, but also receive expert instruction in your chosen language at our school. Best of all, every immersion experience helps fund our subsidized and free local education program, helping local students to access opportunities and make their own futures.