Key Takeaways
- Historic Milestone: Mexico’s Independence Day commemorates the start of the war for freedom from Spanish rule in 1810.
- The “Grito” Ritual: The main celebration begins the night of September 15th with “El Grito,” where leaders across the country re-enact Miguel Hidalgo’s famous cry for independence.
- Nationwide Fiestas: Fiestas take place in all cities and towns, featuring fireworks, traditional handicrafts, and the iconic colors of the Mexican flag.
- Cancun Celebrations: While known for its beaches, Cancun offers deep cultural experiences with downtown festivals at the City Hall and special hotel events.
Experience the vibrant heart of Mexico during its most patriotic holiday. September 16th marks the anniversary of Mexico’s 1810 struggle for freedom, a date celebrated with massive fiestas in every corner of the country. From the historic “Grito” in Mexico City’s Zócalo to the lively celebrations in the heart of Cancun, this is the ultimate time to immerse yourself in the flavors, colors, and traditions of a truly independent nation.
What is the History of Mexico’s Independence Day?
September 16th is Mexico’s Independence Day. It is the very day that, back in 1810, Mexico started the war that would lead to its freedom as an independent country after the many years of Spanish rule. A holiday with big fiestas year after year in all cities, municipalities and even smaller towns of Mexico.
In fact, the celebration takes place the night before, September 15th, when the famous cry of independence (El Grito) is given, ¡VIVA MEXICO!
In the nation’s capital, Mexico City, the President gives the Grito from the balcony of the Government Palace in the main square, el zócalo. He waves the Mexican flag and rings a bell, like the nation’s hero Miguel Hidalgo once did. In all the towns and villages of the country governors, mayors and municipal leaders do the same thing in the main square. That night is independence night, as all Mexicans call it. The night when the real Mexican fiesta kicks off with the colors of the Mexican flag, fireworks, typical food and drinks, traditional sweets, handicrafts and traditions galore.
Even though Cancun is not a colonial city, the traditions and celebrations of the Mexican Independence Day are also great. Tourists and locals can experience the traditional Grito downtown at the esplanade by the City Hall. Plus, around the city center you can find craft stalls, typical food, drinks, sweets and even souvenirs that attract local families and tourists alike.
Resort and Restaurant Celebrations
Most hotels make their own celebrations for guests to experience the typical and great Mexican culture. Also, most restaurants in the Hotel Zone and in downtown Cancun offer shows and special dinners on the evening of September the 15th. Enjoy the atmosphere of the most genuine Fiesta Mexicana and let yourself be carried away by the flavors, traditions and colors!
Amstar representatives at your hotel will love to guide you through proposals and ideas to live up to this date, so important in Mexico.
Featured photo by Rubi Joselin Ibarra.
FAQ
1. When is Mexican Independence Day? While the war for freedom began on September 16th, the festivities actually kick off the night before, on September 15th.
2. What is “El Grito”? “El Grito” is the famous cry of independence—”¡VIVA MEXICO!”—given by the President and local leaders while waving the flag and ringing a bell to honor hero Miguel Hidalgo.
3. How is Independence Day celebrated in Cancun? You can join the traditional “Grito” downtown at the City Hall esplanade or enjoy special dinner shows and fiestas hosted by resorts and restaurants throughout the Hotel Zone.
4. What kind of food is served during the fiesta? Celebrants enjoy a wide array of typical Mexican dishes, traditional sweets, and local drinks amidst streets filled with craft stalls and decorations.
