7 Signs It’s Your Birthday in Mexico

3. You get “Las Mañanitas” sung to you, even at night.

Speaking of “Las Mañanitas,” Mexico is one of the few Latin countries with a birthday song that’s not simply a Spanish adaptation of “Happy Birthday.” The “Little Mornings” song describes the beauty of the morning in which the singer comes to congratulate the birthday boy or girl. Before it was only sung in the morning; nowadays, it can be sung at any time, usually when the candles have been lit on the birthday cake.

4. A traditional tres leches cake (or multicolored mega cake) is the centerpiece.

It seems like every party I go to there’s a tres leches cake, which is fine by me because they’re so delicious. It seems like the creamier and more layered the cake, the better. If you like football, expect a football pitch with players, goals, and maybe even grandstands as decorations. If you like The Little Mermaid, you could be greeted with a whole seascape complete with shells, fish, and multiple Ariels.

5. You smack a piñata.

A birthday party in Mexico isn’t complete without a piñata. Piñatas come in all shapes and sizes (but very rarely will you see the donkey-shaped one sold all over the US and Europe).

Adult or child, there’s nothing better than being able to get out all of your energy bashing a piñata until it explodes with sweets and toys. There’s always one child who comes prepared with multiple pockets to fill with goodies (and usually their dad isn’t far behind).

6. You drive around all day with your car plastered in Post-it notes.

A lovely and fun tradition in Mexico turns your car into a multicolored display of love for you from your family and friends. Each Post-it will have a special something written on it. Recently, I saw a grandma driving around with notes of love from all of her children and grandchildren on her birthday. The smile on her face was unbeatable.

7. Your entire family comes to celebrate.

Mexican birthdays are definitely more of a family affair than a time to spend with friends. You’ll celebrate with everyone — parents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. into the early hours.