Independence Day in Mexico

Independence Day of Mexico

The celebration of Mexico’s Independence Day commences every 15th of September at exactly 11pm and continues on until the 16th of September. It is considered a very important holiday in Mexico and is celebrated in every single city and town.

According to historical records, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla of Dolores, initiated Mexico’s War of Independence against the colonizing Spanish regime on September 16, 1810. Father Hidalgo rang the bell of the church in order to gather the people of the town and called on them to fight against their Spanish conquerors and for their independence. This event, the Grito de Dolores, is commemorated annually all across Mexico. However, Mexico only became officially independent in 1821.

Following the custom, in recent times, the Mexican Indepence Day celebration begins when the President of Mexico rings the historic liberty bell that Father Hidalgo rang to call the people. He gives the “El Grito” or The Cry by shouting “Mexicanos, Viva Mexico!” after which the crowd echoes back. The El Grito is then repeated by each governor of all the Mexican states throughout the country. After the last El Grito is shouted, the President waves the flag of Mexico, rings the bell again, and then the Mexican National Anthem is sung.

On the following day, a civic ceremony and a military parade is held to commemorate the occasion. People feast and dine and there are rodeos, bullfighting, and horseback-riding performances everywhere. Statues of Father Hidalgo are brought out and are decorated or offered with flowers.

The celebration every 16th of September is similar to the Fourth of July celebration in the United States. Other areas outside of Mexico with large Mexican communities also celebrate the Mexican Independence Day usually through festivities and programs that feature Mexican dances, songs and traditions.

Independence Day is celebrated all throughout the country of Mexico, but most especially in Zocalo, Mexico City. Come join the festivities!