Did you know that Mexican Independence began with a two-century-old cry for freedom? Mexican Independence Day has been celebrated every year ever since with parades, street parties, and colorful lights, especially this 2024.

For more history and hidden details, read our article.

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The History of Mexican Independence Day

The “Grito de Dolores” is a crucial event in Mexican history. It marks the moment when the priest Miguel Hidalgo issued an ardent call for rebellion. This outburst sparked the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish rule. Today it is commemorated every year on September 16 as Mexican Independence Day.

For 300 years, the Spanish Empire ruled Mexico, exploited Mexico’s riches, and oppressed natives and mestizos. Growing resentment sparked, inspired by ideas from other revolutions too. Discontent spread like wildfire.

On the eve of the rebellion, Hidalgo rang a bell, gathered his followers, and shouted powerful phrases like ¡Viva la independencia! Today, Mexicans remember this powerful cry with fireworks, festivities, and deep national pride.

The Fight for Freedom: Key Figures and Events in Mexico’s Independence

• Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, is known as the “Father of Mexican Independence.” He gathered his followers on September 16, 1810, with the Grito de Dolores. His words sparked hope for freedom and change for indigenous people and mestizos. Though silenced in 1811, Hidalgo’s vision lived on. His brief but powerful stand shaped Mexico’s destiny.

• José María Morelos y Pavón, another priest, succeeded Hidalgo. He turned chaos into a military effort, rallying people at the 1813 Congress of Chilpancingo. Despite being executed in 1815, Morelos’ ideas persisted.

• Ignacio Allende, a Spanish army captain, joined Hidalgo in the revolution. Though captured and executed in 1811, his early contributions remain significant.

• Vicente Guerrero became a key leader after Morelos in southern Mexico. He employed guerrilla tactics and eventually teamed up with Iturbide to secure victory. Guerrero later became President in 1829, seeking to abolish slavery and promote social equality.

• Agustín de Iturbide, initially a royalist, switched sides in 1821. Teaming up with Guerrero, they crafted the Plan of Iguala, aiming for independence and equality. On September 27, 1821, Iturbide’s forces entered Mexico City, securing freedom.

When Is Mexican Independence Day 2024?

Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on September 16, 2024. It commemorates the start of Mexico’s fight for freedom from Spain.

If you are in town, you’ll see flags everywhere, hear “Viva México” shouted, and catch the sound of mariachi music around every corner. The day starts with “El Grito,” a reenactment of the historic cry for independence. Traditional foods like pozole and chiles en nogada are always on the menu.

How Does Mexico Celebrate Its Independence Day in 2024?

The Grito de Dolores Ceremony

On the night of September 15, the President rings a bell and shouts phrases like “¡Viva México!” at El Zócalo, Mexico City. It’s an honorable call to remember the start of the independence fight in 1810.

Fireworks Displays

After the Grito on September 15, fireworks explode in cities everywhere. Mexico City has the biggest show, lighting up the sky with green, white, and red lights.

Parades

On September 16, towns hold parades, with the largest in Mexico City. Soldiers and colorful displays march by, showing off national pride and honoring the Mexican past.

Fiestas (Celebrations)

Starting the night of September 15 and going through September 16, parties are everywhere. Families gather for food and music, with decorations in the colors of the flag.

Traditional Mexican Food

During the celebrations, people feast on dishes like pozole and chiles en nogada. These meals celebrate Mexico’s food culture.

Dancing and Music

Music fills the air on the night of September 15 and during the next day. Mariachi bands play, and everyone dances.

Patriotic Speeches

On September 15 and 16, leaders give speeches about independence and national identity. These are broadcast so all can hear.

Public Gatherings at El Zócalo

On September 15, crowds gather at El Zócalo for the Grito and stay for music and fireworks. It’s a central place for this celebration.

Reenactments and Historical Displays

On September 16, towns reenact historical events from the Independence War. Students often dress up as historical figures, learning about their country’s past.

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How is Mexican Independence Day Celebrated in the U.S?

In Chicago, huge parades fill the streets with colorful floats, mariachi bands, and dancers. New York City comes alive with marches in Manhattan, while Central Park hosts heartfelt ceremonies.

Over in L.A., the mayor’s grand Grito at City Hall captivates the crowd with fireworks exploding. Texas cities like San Antonio echo with mariachi tunes, street vendors, and reenactments. Las Vegas dazzles, with casinos hosting vibrant concerts.

Across America, small towns and big cities alike echo the festivities. They bring to life Mexican traditions, with food, music, and fun.

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Mexican Independence Day vs. Cinco de Mayo: What’s the Difference?

Mexican Independence Day takes place on September 16 and honors Father Hidalgo’s call for independence from Spain in 1810. Cinco de Mayo, on the other hand, is celebrated on May 5 and commemorates the Battle of Puebla, when a smaller Mexican army defeated the French forces in 1862.

Both events are important yet different. Cinco de Mayo is more widely celebrated in the United States as a cultural festival. Meanwhile, Mexican Independence Day is a day of national pride in Mexico.

Traditional Foods and Drinks for Mexican Independence Day

• Chiles en Nogada: A tasty dish with poblano chiles stuffed with a mix of meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce. The colors—green, white, and red—represent the Mexican flag.
• Pozole: A cozy soup made with hominy and meat, often pork or chicken, seasoned with chiles and herbs.
• Tacos al Pastor: A street food favorite with marinated pork cooked on a spit, served on small tortillas with onions and pineapple.
• Tamales: Corn dough pockets filled with all sorts of goodies, like meat or sweet fruits. They’re steamed in husks and come in many varieties.
• Enchiladas: Tortillas rolled with tasty fillings and covered in sauce and melted cheese, often served with rice and beans.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise and cheese, with a sprinkle of chili.
• Guacamole and Salsas: A creamy dip made from avocados and spices.
• Tequila: The iconic spirit in Mexico, which comes from blue agave and can be enjoyed in various forms.
• Mezcal: Has a smokier flavor and is best sipped slowly.
• Atole: A warm drink made from corn dough, sweetened and flavored with spices. It’s comforting and pairs perfectly with tamales.
• Horchata: A sweet, refreshing beverage made from rice, flavored with cinnamon. It’s a delightful choice to cool down, especially with spicy foods.

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