Last Updated on July 8, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
Having personally experienced the lively festivities surrounding Mexico’s Independence Day, I can attest to the sheer joy and patriotic passion filling the air.
This vibrant celebration, annually on September 16, is a cherished tradition deeply rooted in Mexican culture. But how is Independence Day celebrated in Mexico?
From lively parades and colorful decorations to delicious food and traditional music, let me take you on a journey through the captivating traditions that make Mexico’s Independence Day a truly unforgettable experience.
10 Fun Ways That Mexicans Do To Celebrate Independence Day
1. Fiestas Patrias (Parties)
To celebrate Independence Day, Mexicans often participate in Fiestas Patrias. This holiday includes parades, fireworks, traditional costumes, food, and music.
People come together on this day to show their patriotism and participate in traditional festivities.
Mexicans enjoy delicious food and express pride in their nation as they remember the history and heroes who fought for their freedom.
2. Parades & Processions
Colorful parades wind through the streets of cities and towns, featuring lively music, traditional costumes, and floats adorned with patriotic symbols.
Marching bands fill the air with melodies that stir the soul while dancers and performers showcase their skills, showcasing Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
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3. Traditional Food
Independence Day is a time to enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine, such as chiles en nogada, a mild poblano pepper filled with ground meat and covered in walnut-based sauce.
“Independence means you decide according to the law and the facts.”
– Stephen Breyer, Former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States
Next, mole is a spicy chili sauce served with chicken and rice. Mexicans also enjoy churros, pastries fried in oil and dippable in a thick hot chocolate.
The celebration continues with traditional recipes such as pozole, tacos [1], enchiladas, and pan dulce, a Mexican sweetbread.
4. Flags & Decorations
Many people decorate their homes, businesses, and public spaces with Mexican flags and decorations in green, white, and red national colors.
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5. El Grito
The heart and soul of Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations lie in the iconic “El Grito.”
On the evening of September 15th, citizens of Mexico City [2] and towns across the country congregate in public spaces to see the President of Mexico make his annual address from the balcony of the National Palace.
With passion and enthusiasm, the President reenacted the famous cry for independence originally made by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810.
The crowd erupts in cheers, shouts, and patriotic chants, marking the official start of the festivities.
6. Community Gatherings
Independence Day brings people together, fostering a sense of unity and pride. Communities organize events and fairs, offering games, contests, and performances to enjoy.
These gatherings allow locals and visitors to immerse themselves in Mexican culture and forge lasting memories. But what should you do in Boston during the 4th of July?
7. Patriotic Attire
Mexicans proudly display their patriotism by dressing in traditional attire or donning clothing in national colors.
Green, white, and red garments adorned with symbols of Mexico’s rich history showcase their love for the country and commitment to preserving its heritage.
8. Cultural Exhibitions
Museums, art galleries, and cultural centers often hold special exhibitions during Independence Day, showcasing Mexico’s artistic achievements and historic milestones.
These exhibitions provide a deeper understanding of the country’s heritage and serve as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs that led to independence.
9. Historical Reenactments
Many cities and towns in Mexico organize historical reenactments during Independence Day.
These reenactments depict key moments from Mexico’s struggle for independence, allowing people to experience history firsthand.
“Independence Day is a symphony of tradition and celebration in Mexico, where mariachi melodies, dazzling fireworks, and the vibrant folklore dances intertwine to create an unforgettable spectacle of national pride.”
– Howkapow Gift Site
From battle scenes to signing important documents, these reenactments bring history to life and educate the younger generation about their country’s past.
10. School Events
Schools often organize special programs and activities leading up to Independence Day, including performances, recitations of patriotic poems, and reenactments of important events from Mexican history.
Read: Things That Cubans Do To Celebrate Their Independence Day
FAQs
How long did Mexico’s War of Independence last?
Mexico’s War of Independence lasted for eleven years, spanning from September 16, 1810, when the movement was initiated by Miguel Hidalgo, to September 27, 1821, when the independence of Mexico was officially declared with the signing of the Treaty of Córdoba.
What ended the Mexican War of Independence?
The Mexican independence movement was ultimately ended by signing the Treaty of Córdoba in 1821, which recognized Mexico as an independent nation.
This treaty marked the culmination of years of struggle and the end of Spanish colonial rule in Mexico.
But when exactly does Costa Rica celebrate its independence?
In Summary
In Mexico, Independence Day is celebrated with parties, parades, and delicious traditional food. Having experienced it firsthand, it’s an exciting and energetic time.
People gather in the streets, shouting “Viva México!” and enjoying the music of marching bands.
The air is filled with the mouthwatering smells of street tacos and tamales, which families and friends happily eat together.
It’s a special day that brings the whole country together to honor their freedom and show their love for Mexico.
References:
- https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/5-things-didnt-know-about-tacos.htm
- https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/travel-to-mexico-safety/index.html
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