Celebrating Mexico Independence Day

Contrary to popular belief, Mexico Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo are not one and the same. While Cinco de Mayo commemorates the French Empire’s defeat at the hands of the Mexican Army in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, Mexico Independence Day is celebrated on September 16, the date which marks the day when Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang his church’s bell and delivered the battle cry known as the “Grito de Dolores”, which kicked off the Mexican War of Independence. Today, Father Hidalgo is recognized as the Father of Mexican Independence. 

 

 

Mexican families typically celebrate Mexico Independence Day by gathering on the night of September 15th, waiting to ring in the holiday at midnight, very similar to New Year’s Eve. Traditional Mexican foods such as pozole and enchiladas are served, Mexican flags and iconography decorate the surroundings, and celebratory drinks are poured and consumed. One such celebration is taking place at the beautiful Casa del Mar Boutique Resort & Spa in Cabo San Lucas, where locals and tourists will celebrate the holiday with a 5 course chile dinner, cocktails and live music. Other celebrations are held on the streets of Mexico City, where the president of Mexico rings the infamous church bell rung by Hidalgo and his original battle cry is recited by those in the crowd.