Ways to Celebrate Mexican Independence Day

Every year on September 16th in Mexico, millions of people head out to celebrate Mexican Independence Day, a date that honors the nation’s triumph over Spanish colonizers. It is then that shouts of “Viva Mexico” can be heard from every home, restaurant, and plaza as the glow of fireworks light up the night sky.

Much like Independence Day in other nations, the pride of the people is never greater and the Mexican celebrations are never more grand than on this day. It is one of the favorite holidays in Mexico and for good reason. Mexicans, who are known to throw a fantastic party, pull out all the stops on their holiday traditions, joining friends and family with countless ways to celebrate and making the most of their time off.

When is the Independence of Mexico Celebrated?

Independence Day is celebrated on September 16th in Mexico. The date marks the beginning of the Mexican Revolution and the country’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1810.

It was at that time when Miguel Hidalgo, a Catholic priest, ignited the revolution with his famous Grito de Dolores, or cry for independence, motivating the people to revolt against one of the strongest monarchs in the world. The battle was long but the independence of Mexico was finally granted in 1821, 11 years after the revolution began.

How is Mexican Independence Day Celebrated?

There are countless ways to celebrate the independence of Mexico, especially if you are traveling around September 16th in Mexico. At your resort, in restaurants, at bars, and even in the private homes of millions of families, you’ll find patriotic festivities that are filled with dancing, music, and feasts.

The party begins on the night of the 15th, with el Grito, or the cry for independence. Broadcast on TV, the president of the republic will lead citizens by shouting a rendition of “Viva Mexico,” a nod to Hidalgo and his famous grito of 1810.

As with most Mexican celebrations, the streets are covered in colorful decor, fireworks displays light up the night sky, and the joy and laughter of people all over can be heard throughout every pueblo in the country. Mexican Independence Day is one of the most important holidays in Mexico for its citizens and their pride for the country is contagious.

How is Mexican Independence Day Celebrated in Other Countries?

While it isn’t common for Independence Day traditions to cross borders, a good Mexican celebration is known to travel anywhere Mexicans do.

In fact, many Latin American countries celebrate their Independence Day around the same time as Mexico, and large festivities take place in certain parts of the United States and other countries with large Hispanic populations.

If you’re looking for ways to celebrate Mexican Independence Day on the 15th and 16th, feast on authentic Mexican food, sip on soothe tequila, play a number of traditional Mexican games, and shout “viva Mexico” at the top of your lungs at midnight.

Whether you’re in Mexico on Independence Day or just looking for a good Mexican celebration at home, the 16th of September is the perfect opportunity to have fun, be festive, and honor Mexican culture in a big way. Spend the day feasting with family and friends, dancing the night away, and laughing heartily. Viva Mexico!