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On September, 16, 1810, Father Miguel Hidalgo cried “El Grito” or “The Cry of Independence” in Guanajuato, Mexico. This speech was the spark that ignited Mexico’s struggle for independence.
Cinco do Mayo is a crucial date in Mexico’s history but Independence Day is the biggest celebration. If you like fireworks, parades, live music and dancing, you’ll want to be a part of these celebrations.
There are 4 essential components to a Mexican Independence Day celebration.
- Wearing Mexico’s national colors – red, white and green
- Drinking tequila or mezcal
- Listening to mariachi music
- Eating pozole
In Mexico City, celebrations begin a day early. The evening festivities begin with a feast. Traditional Mexican dishes are featured, including
- Pozole, a soup made with hominy and pork and topped with crunchy fried tortillas
- Tamales
- Chiles en Nogada, poblano chiles stuffed with meat and red, white and green dried fruit
- Tacos
and so much more.
After lavish dinners, the people go to the National Palace to watch the Mexican president ring the 200 year old bell and reenact the famous “El Grito.” Shouts of “Viva Mexico” can be heard as the crowds march through the streets, carrying Mexican flags. Red, white and green streamers, flowers, balloons, lights and paper lanterns will light the night in the national colors.
Music from mariachi bands fill the air and there is dancing in the streets. Dancers in colorful traditional garb entertain the crowds with bailes folkloricos.
The festivities continue on September 16 with speeches, parades, great food, tequila, beer and entertainment. Red, white and green decorations line the streets. Crowds chant and sing patriotic songs.
If you’d like to go to the Independence Day celebrations and look the part, check this out to see some great creations.
Mexico City Hotels
If you’d like to visit Mexico City for the Independence Day celebrations, you should consider these hotels. They are all offering up to 65% off their regular rates, which can save you money on your stay.
If you’re going to be flying to Mexico City, book your flight here and use the promo code “FALL50” to save money.
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoyed the Mexican food in the celebrations and you’d like to learn more about Mexican cooking, try these cookbooks. And use our links to see how you can save money on them.