Mexican independence day: why is it celebrated?

Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on September 16 and commemorates Mexico's struggle for independence from Spanish rule. The origin of this holiday dates back to 1810, when the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave the famous “Grito de Dolores” in the small town of Dolores in the state of Guanajuato.

Mexican Independence Day celebrations include parades, parties, music, dancing and fireworks. All cities have celebrations to offer but if you want to participate in the commemoration of this special date in Mexico's capital and tour the city, the best option is car rental in CDMX. Make the most of your stay!

Why is Mexico's Independence Day celebrated?

On September 16, 1810, the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, known today as the Father of the Nation, ignited the flame of Mexico's struggle for independence. Hidalgo, along with other heroes of Mexican history, had been participating in secret meetings in Querétaro since 1809 to recruit supporters and gather weapons in preparation for the uprising.

In the early morning of September 16, 1810, Hidalgo rang the bells of his church in the town of Dolores, calling on the population to rise up against Spanish rule. This act, known as the “Grito de Dolores,” marked the beginning of a war that would last more than a decade and result in Mexico's independence.

What are the Mexican Independence Day celebrations?

In Mexico, September is celebrated as the month of the homeland, commemorating the 16th of this month as the day the struggle for independence against Spanish rule began.

With the arrival of Mexico's independence month, the streets are transformed into an open-air market. Street vendors fill the sidewalks, offering a variety of patriotic items such as Mexican flags and typical clothing.

There are endless activities to do on Mexican Independence Day: festivities include colorful parades, music, traditional dances and fireworks displays. This day not only commemorates the struggle for freedom, but also reinforces the sense of identity and unity among Mexicans.

El Grito de Dolores: the beginning of the Independence Day celebrations

The first Mexican Independence Day activity in which you should participate is the historic Grito de Dolores. This begins on the night of September 15 and lasts until the early morning of the 16th. The festivity begins with a ceremony led by the President of the Republic and other members of the Government, who carry the national flag and pronounce a modified version of the “Grito de Dolores”. After this, a bell is rung and the National Anthem is sung.

This formal act marks the beginning of Mexico's National Day: the streets fill with life and color, with music, dancing and a variety of traditional foods. Mexicans congregate in plazas and parks, enjoying the company of family and friends, and celebrating their identity and heritage with pride and joy.

If you travel to the country's capital during these dates, you should not miss being part of the Mexican Independence Day celebration: the city is filled with flags, joyful music and a strong sense of national pride. In addition to getting to know the city on such a special date, you can take the opportunity to visit the surroundings of CDMX.

How is Mexico's Independence Day celebrated in key cities?

Guanajuato played a crucial role in Mexico's independence, being one of the main scenarios where fundamental events took place at the beginning of the struggle for the country's freedom.

If you decide to visit the state during these special dates, you can make the most of your trip and explore tourist sites. With car rental in Leon, you will be able to visit the most emblematic places with total comfort and freedom, in addition to celebrating Mexico's Independence Day in a different way.

The city of Guanajuato offers multiple ways to celebrate Mexico's Independence Day with a special and meaningful approach. Don't miss the celebration in the main square, where the Grito de Dolores takes place with music, folkloric dances and an atmosphere full of patriotism. Visit historical sites of relevance to Mexico's independence such as the Alhóndiga de Granaditas and don't forget to try traditional dishes in restaurants and stalls.

Another emblematic site is Dolores Hidalgo: to visit this town during these dates is to immerse yourself in the living history of Mexico. On September 16, the solemn act of the Grito is relived in front of the atrium of the parish church, transporting those present to the historic moment that changed the destiny of the country. If you decide to visit Dolores Hidalgo, you cannot miss the traditional civic-military parade on the morning of the 16th, where the community unites to pay homage to the heroes of independence.

The celebrations don't stop there. During these days, the city also becomes an entertainment center with performances by renowned artists and local groups at the fairgrounds, offering a space where history, culture and fun intertwine in a grand tribute to Mexico's independence.

Another city to celebrate Mexico's Independence Day is Queretaro, witness of one of the key moments in the history of independence. The Grito de Independencia is celebrated with great fervor in the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the historic center, where the community gathers to relive this emblematic moment. In addition, the Guerrero Garden becomes another meeting point for the celebrations, offering a festive atmosphere with music and an ambiance that reflects the pride of the people. Visiting Mexico City in September is an opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the country's most impressive patriotic celebrations. During these dates, CDMX is transformed into a true patriotic spectacle. The Zócalo becomes the epicenter of the celebration, with the surrounding government buildings adorned with lights and tricolor motifs that highlight its architecture. Paseo de la Reforma, one of the most emblematic avenues, is also illuminated with the colors of the flag, making each tour an unforgettable visual experience.

The festive atmosphere can be felt in every corner of the city: restaurants and bars join the celebration, offering special menus and atmospheres decorated for the occasion. To visit Mexico City in September is to experience the heart of independence in a setting full of history, culture and national pride.

Mexico's Independence Day not only marks the beginning of the struggle for freedom, but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage and traditions that are part of the Mexican identity. Celebrate this important date and take the opportunity to tour the best sites in CDMX with car rental!