Communities across Mexico are preparing for a nationwide celebration to mark the 215th anniversary of the country’s independence on Sept. 16, commemorating the historic start of the movement in 1810 that led to freedom from Spanish rule in 1821.
The centerpiece of the annual festivities is the Grito de Dolores — or “Cry of Dolores” — a reenactment of Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla legendary call to arms, which will take place the night of September15. President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo will deliver the traditional cry from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City’s Zócalo, accompanied by military honors, live music, fireworks and a dazzling light display. As the first woman president to do so, it will be a historic reminder of the mothers of the revolution. “Every September, Mexico transforms into a living tribute to its history and culture. Destinations across the country celebrate to the nines with iconic culinary, dances, religious observances, in short, all things Mexican,” said Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, Mexico’s minister of tourism. “This is a unique time to experience the country’s traditions and take part in the many celebrations of the patriotic spirit.”
A Month Full of Color, Culture and Cuisine
Throughout September, cities and towns across the country are adorned in green, white and red — the colors of the Mexican flag. Celebrations include parades, street festivals, folk dancing and an abundance of traditional cuisine.
In Dolores Hidalgo (Guanajuato), the town where the independence movement began, crowds gather at the original church where Hidalgo rang the bell that signaled the start of the rebellion. In cities like Puebla, Guadalajara and Oaxaca, visitors can enjoy mariachi concerts, artisan markets and regional cultural displays.
Mexico City comes alive each year during the season with historic buildings across the city being illuminated with dazzling lights in green, white and red, while streets echo with traditional music, the sounds of mariachi and fireworks lighting up the night sky. Mexico City transforms into a national stage of pride and unity.
The celebrations reach their peak on the night of Sept.15, when thousands gather in the Zócalo, the city’s main square, towitness the iconic “Grito de Dolores” reenactment. Delivered from thebalcony of the National Palace by the President of Mexico, the emotionalcall — “¡Viva México!” — is met with roaring cheers and applause fromthe crowd.
For those looking to explore beyond the capital, a visit to the nearby Pyramids of Teotihuacan offers a powerful journey into Mexico’s ancient past. Located just an hour outside the city, the vast archaeological site — home to the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon —provides a striking contrast to the modern-day celebrations, highlighting the deep historical roots of Mexican identity.
Travelers looking to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day with a coastal twist, head to the Pacific shores of Nayarit. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic beaches and strong cultural roots, Nayarit offers a vibrant yet laid-back setting to honor Día de la Independencia. From the coastal towns north of Puerto Vallarta — including Sayulita, San Pancho and Punta de Mita — to colorful inland villages, the region comes alive each September with local parades, traditional dance performances, mariachi music and fireworks over the ocean.
Food also plays a central role in the festivities. Oneseasonal favorite is chiles en nogada — poblano chiles stuffed with meatand fruit, topped with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds, representingthe colors of the flag. Other staples include pozole, tamales, tostadas,and festive beverages like aguas frescas, Tequila, pulque and mezcal.
A Historic and Symbolic Cry
The Grito de Dolores dates to the early hours of Sept. 16,1810, when Father Hidalgo rang the church bell in Dolores (now Dolores Hidalgo,Guanajuato), urging Mexicans to rise against colonial rule. His cry marked thebeginning of the War of Independence.
Today, the Grito is reenacted each year at 11 p.m. on Sept.15 in plazas, city halls and embassies around the world. Local leaders take to balconies and stages to deliver the iconic call:
“¡Mexicanos! ¡Vivan los héroes que nos dieron patria y libertad! ¡Viva Hidalgo! ¡Viva Morelos! ¡Viva Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez! ¡Viva Allende! ¡Viva la independencia nacional! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México!”
The ceremony is followed by fireworks, live music and late-night celebrations in streets and homes across the country.
Why Visit Mexico in September? With cooler weather, festive energy and a deeper look intonational identity, September is an ideal time for cultural tourism in Mexico. From colonial towns to coastal cities, travelers can experience firsthand the pride and passion that define the country’s most important holiday.
