Delicious dishes, festivals, parades, culture, mariachis, music and, of course, Mexican hospitality are some of the main reasons why foreigners enjoy traveling to Mexico during “El Grito de Independencia” also known as Mexico’s Independence Day. The celebrations are representative of the beginning of the long war for independence that began in the early morning on September 16, 1810.
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Mexican priest who is credited for establishing what is known today as the “Grito de Dolores”, or “Cry of Dolores” which took place in a small town near Guanajuato, Mexico. Hidalgo y Costilla, wanted his fellow Mexican citizens to defend their rights and fight against the Spaniards while he led their fight for freedom. A historic moment is remembered today was when Hidalgo y Costilla rang the church bells in the town to summon the community members bringing them together to stand up and fight for a new future against the Spaniards. The battle for Independence was long and drawn out and took time before Mexico was officially recognized as an independent country a decade later.
It is known that Mexicans tend to take their time preparing traditional dishes for Independence Day. You can expect to try a variety of Mexican foods such as pork tamales, chiles en nogada, pozole, mole poblano sauce with chicken and others dishes to enjoy.
This is the largest national holiday in Mexico, the majority of businesses, banks, government offices, and schools are closed. Mexicans express their sense of nationalism and patriotism proudly. The celebration is associated with vibrant colors representing the Mexican flag, traditional outfits, scents, Mexican hats, cheering, tequila, fireworks and patriotic citizens taking to the streets to celebrate. Mexico’s president can be found at the “Zocalo” the main public square ringing the National Palace bell while, waving the Mexican flag and chanting “Viva México!” three times, reenacting the traditional patriotic cry of Hidalgo y Costillo. The next day, the national military parade takes place in Mexico City, the capital and the heart of the country.
Mexico welcomes foreigners to experience and participate during the annual Independence Day celebration so others can witness the traditions Mexicans are proud of and what their ancestor fought for and have celebrated since October 1825.