Independence day: how is it commemorated in mexico?
September 16 is one of the most important and symbolic dates in the national calendar. This day commemorates the beginning of the struggle for Mexico's independence from Spanish rule, a process that lasted more than a decade and defined the course of the country. The history behind this date is as fascinating as the celebrations that take place throughout Mexico today. Would you like to learn more? Read on and discover in this Hertz Mexico article how this special date is commemorated and the best places to celebrate it.
How is Independence Day celebrated in Mexico?
The festivities begin on the night of September 15 with the “Grito de Independencia” ceremony, which takes place in most of the country's cities and towns. However, the most important event takes place in Mexico City, in the Zócalo, where the President of the Republic, from the balcony of the National Palace, reenacts the Grito de Dolores before thousands of people waving flags and shouting “Viva Mexico!”.
The ceremony is followed by fireworks, music, and festivities that last until the wee hours of the morning. On September 16, military parades run through the country's main avenues, showcasing the might and tradition of the Mexican Armed Forces. The streets are filled with patriotic colors: green, white and red, and Mexicans celebrate with parties, typical foods that cannot be missed and traditional drinks such as tequila and mezcal.
Independence Day decorations in Mexico are also spectacular and full of symbolism. Streets, plazas, public buildings and private homes are decorated with the colors of the national flag and filled with garlands, flags, lights and banners with patriotic phrases.
Celebrations in Guanajuato, cradle of the Independence Movement
Guanajuato has a special place in the celebrations of this great day. The state is rich in history and its cities are witnesses to crucial moments of the war for independence. In Guanajuato capital, Dolores Hidalgo and San Miguel de Allende, the celebrations have an especially emotional and patriotic tone.
Guanajuato
On Independence Day in Guanajuato capital, the festivities begin with the reenactment of the Cry of Independence on the Esplanade of the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a historic site where one of the first and most important battles of the war took place.
The building, now a museum, becomes the center of the celebrations, with cultural events, concerts, and fireworks. The governor of the state performs the Grito from the balcony of the Alhóndiga, followed by the participation of thousands of people who fill the streets to celebrate.
Dolores Hidalgo
About an hour and a half drive from the Guanajuato International Airport in Leon, is Dolores Hidalgo, better known as the “Cradle of National Independence,” where it all began. The city prepares weeks in advance to receive thousands of visitors who come to witness the Grito in the same place where Miguel Hidalgo did it in 1810. The ceremony takes place in the parish of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, with an emotional recreation of the Grito de Independencia, parades, and a series of cultural events that recall the historical facts.
San Miguel de Allende
This is another key city in the independence movement and the festivities are also notable. Here, the Grito de Independencia is a massive event, with the city's main square full of people. This is a very touristy destination and for the festivities the city dresses up with patriotic decorations and lights. In addition to the Grito, there are parades and fairs celebrating the culture and history of Mexico.
Other not-to-be-missed destinations to celebrate Independence Day
Throughout the country there are many destinations that offer unforgettable experiences to commemorate the “Grito de Dolores”. Below, we tell you about some of the best places to celebrate Independence Day in Mexico, outside of the capital and Guanajuato.
Also, you can take advantage and rent a car with Hertz Mexico, to visit these places and other points of interest.
Querétaro
Querétaro has a significant historical role in the struggle for Mexico's independence, being the place where the conspiracy that would eventually lead to the beginning of the independence movement was organized. The city offers a celebration full of history and culture, with the traditional “Grito de Independencia” in the Plaza de Armas. The celebration includes fireworks, live music and parades.
In addition, Querétaro is known for its beautiful historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making the visit a complete cultural experience.
Veracruz
The city of Veracruz, known as Mexico's first port, has a strong connection to the history of independence, as it was a key point of entry and exit during the struggle against the Spanish colonizers.
The “Grito de Independencia” is given in the Plaza de Armas, in front of the Municipal Palace, followed by a fireworks display and live jarocha music.
The city comes alive with cultural events, military parades and a festive atmosphere that extends along the malecon.
Oaxaca
The city of Oaxaca has a strong indigenous and colonial heritage, making it a fascinating destination to celebrate Independence Day. The festivities in Oaxaca's Zócalo are especially lively, with traditional dances, mariachi music, and an abundance of fireworks that light up the night sky.
In addition, the city is known for its gastronomy, including dishes such as mole oaxaqueño and tlayudas, which are especially enjoyed during these festivities.
As you saw, although Mexico City and Guanajuato are popular destinations for Independence Day, Mexico offers several places where you can experience this celebration in an equally memorable way.
Therefore, we recommend car rental with Hertz Mexico so you can celebrate this coming September 16 and discover some of these destinations to the fullest.