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Colorful Mexican Independence Day Traditions

Posted on 4 m read

Come to Mexico for Independence Day!

With everything that has happened this past year, it hasn’t been what we call a traditional year, but in Mexico, some traditions never die. Mexican Independence Day is coming up on September 15th and 16th, and here at Sandos Hotels & Resorts, we’re getting pretty excited for all the celebrations!

Early September is a special time of year here in Mexico, known as Mes Patrio (meaning “Patriotic Month”). Travelers who are visiting Mexico around this time are sure to see plenty of green, white, and red everywhere they go in honor of the colors of the Mexican flag.

Street carts in the cities are loaded up with flags, drums, noisemakers, and more, while green, white, and red papel picado (traditional Mexican folk art of colorful cut paper) is strung up above the main avenues. Throughout the first weeks of September, the patriotic atmosphere is contagious everywhere you go.

Colorful Mexican Independence Day Traditions

The History of Mexican Independence

Mexican Independence Day celebrates the historical events that happened way back in the early hours of September 16th, 1810, in the small town of Dolores Guanajuato in central Mexico.

On this night, the priest Miguel Hidalgo rang the church bell to gather the people and ask them to rise up against Spain, beginning Mexico’s War of Independence. This moment is known as “El Grito de Dolores” (The Cry of Dolores), and it’s still celebrated today; every year, on the night of September 15th, crowds gather in city squares across Mexico for the famous “El Grito”.

Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos

At 11 pm, the President of Mexico steps out onto the balcony of the National Palace in the Zocalo of Mexico City and rings Miguel Hidalgo’s bell, while the entire country cheers along simultaneously, shouting “Viva Mexico!”. The president ringing the Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla bell is one of the most important parts of the celebration along with that traditional grito.

Mexican Independence Day Traditions

Battle of Puebla: Another Mexican Victory for Independence 

The battle of independence in Mexico didn’t stop on September 16th, 1810, when Mexican forces overthrew the Spanish rule! On May 5th, 1862, there was another battle fought against the French, most famously known as the Battle of Puebla. During this war, French forces were sent to Mexico to establish a french satellite state, and as the french army marched its way to Mexico City, they were greeted with Mexican forces. 

Though the Mexican Army was outnumbered, the heart and determination of the soldiers prevailed, leading to a Mexican victory on May 5th, 1862. Commonly known in the United States as a Mexican celebration, Cinco de Mayo actually represents the Battle of Puebla and the victory of a war against the French.

Celebrating the Red, White, and Green

Just as you’d expect, September 15 is a popular night in Mexico to go out with friends and family. Of course, many go to their local town square for El Grito, but bars and restaurants across the country also fill up with people celebrating Mexican Independence Day.

Others organize house parties and cookouts, while in some cities, the local people take to the streets to celebrate. For example, in the beach city of Playa del Carmen, all of 5th Avenue fills up with crowds joining in on the Mexican Independence Day celebrations.

The night of September 15th is filled with fireworks, joy, excitement, and celebration all across Mexico as citizens and travelers alike honor this special holiday.

The Month of September in Mexico

Mexican Independence Day

All across Mexico, the entire month of September is known as “el Mes de la Patria, also named the month of the homeland. Mexican independence day is celebrated every year on September 16th, but travelers can experience authentic Mexican traditions everywhere they look for the entire month. See first hand the whole country lighting up red, white, and green while experiencing one-of-a-kind celebrations. 

If you are traveling during September, make sure to admire all of the buildings and homes in your destination, adorning decorations celebrating their country and culture. During this time of the year, travelers can enjoy patriotic festivals, amazing performances, beautiful music, and mouth-watering traditional cuisine. By far, being in Mexico during September 16th is a must! Indulge in an unforgettable experience. Where travelers from around the world join together with Mexicans in the famous “Grito” or cry of independence! 

Sandos Celebrates Mexico

Sandos Cancun Lifestyle Resort Mexican Independence Day

As we mentioned before, this year has been one so different from those in the past, and at Sandos Hotels and Resorts. We will make sure that you can still celebrate this incredible occasion while you stay healthy and safe. Of course, Sandos Hotels & Resorts in Mexico will also be offering a variety of Mexican Independence Day celebrations and activities for all ages on September 15th and 16th. While also respecting our new and advanced Safe Stay hygiene protocol, ensuring you have fun while staying safe. 

Mexican Independence Day

At our all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya and Cabo San Lucas, guests can have a blast with Mexican-themed games. Specialty cocktails, fun Kids Club activities, live music, and dancing. Not to mention mouthwatering Mexican cuisine so guests can experience a variety of traditional flavors.

There’s no better place to be on Mexican Independence Day than on a beach in Mexico celebrating this colorful and vibrant holiday with family and friends.

We hope to see you at one of our Sandos resorts on September 15th and 16th. Viva México y viva la independencia!

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