Mexico celebrates independence on September 16, starting the night before with the Grito, then fireworks, parades, music and dishes like chiles en nogada.
Mexico Independence Day is celebrated on September 16th, commemorating the freedom of Mexico from Spanish rule. After being under Spanish control for over 300 years, citizens were motivated to revolt by a Catholic priest named Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The priest rang the church bells and delivered an impassioned speech known as the Cry of Dolores (Grito de Dolores) that started the Mexican War of Independence. A decade later, Mexico would win its independence from Spain.
Is cinco de mayo the same as Independence Day?
No! Many Americans mistakenly believe that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory against the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The holiday is also more popular in the United States to honor and celebrate Mexican culture and heritage.
How does Mexico celebrate Independence Day?
Independence Day kicks off the evening before September 16th. The celebration always begins at the National Palace when the president emerges to recite the famous speech from Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. This event is broadcasted around Mexico and ends with passionate chants from the crowd saying, “Viva Mexico!” The festivities officially begin after this event, and you can expect other Mexico Independence Day traditions such as:
September 16th is celebrated around Mexico with fireworks, parades, fiestas, traditional music, food, and folk dancing.
Food is essential to the celebration, with street vendors serving dishes like pozole, pancita, and enchiladas.
Chiles en Nogada is the most popular dish of the day since the poblano chiles, parsley, cream sauce, and garnished with pomegranate seeds to reflect the colors of the Mexican flag.
What’s food without drinks? Tequila is a popular drink to celebrate the holiday
Many families organize house parties and cookouts for Independence Day, while others head to local restaurants or gather for fireworks in town.
Playa Del Carmen hosts Mexico’s most patriotic party in front of City Hall, with food, music, drinks, and fireworks to end the celebration.
How to celebrate Independence Day on your own
How does Mexico celebrate Independence Day? In short, it’s a festive gathering that includes parades, fireworks, delicious food, folk dancing, and spending time with loved ones. If you want to celebrate in Mexico, Riviera Maya Haciendas has you covered with our luxury vacation rentals along the magnificent Riviera Maya. And if you are curious about how to celebrate in your state, search for events around September 16th and join a local fiesta nearby!
Where to stay
Your base on the coast.
Four haciendas on the beach in Puerto Aventuras, about 1 hour from Cancun airport (1 hour 15 from Tulum’s), plus villas and condos along the Riviera Maya.
