Mexican Independence Day

Origins and history

In September 1810, the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued a call to arms against Spanish colonial authorities, igniting the Mexican War of Independence. Over a decade later, in September 1821, the Army of the Three Guarantees marched into the capital under Agustin de Iturbide to conclude the conflict. A provisional governing council then drafted the formal Act of Independence. Legal recognition of the holiday followed in the Constitution of Apatzingan and early state treaties, leading to the first nationwide annual commemoration in 1825.

The night of the shout

The focal point of the celebration occurs late on 15 September. Near 11 p.m., the president appears at the capital's central seat of government to sound the bell once used by Hidalgo. The head of state delivers an adapted patriotic cry, praising the key figures of the rebellion and concluding with a threefold salute to the nation. Hundreds of thousands in the Zocalo repeat each praise, sing the national anthem alongside military musicians, and view fireworks alongside illuminated projections across the nearby cathedral.

Civic parades and local ceremonies

Festivities continue through 16 September with large civic and military processions. In the capital, forces march from the main plaza past the Hidalgo Memorial and along Paseo de la Reforma to the Angel of Independence. Similar ceremonies unfold across the republic, where state governors, municipal leaders, and school directors ring bells and repeat the traditional words for local crowds. Diplomatic posts and communities of Mexican heritage in the United States also organize matching events.

Distinction from Cinco de Mayo

A frequent misunderstanding outside Mexico confuses Independence Day with Cinco de Mayo. The fifth of May actually commemorates the 1862 Battle of Puebla, where republican troops defeated an invading French force. Cinco de Mayo is primarily observed in the state of Puebla and functions as a minor holiday elsewhere in the country. In contrast, the September holiday represents Mexico's foundational civic celebration, recognized everywhere as the anniversary of the uprising against Spanish imperial rule.

How Mexican Independence Day is kept

On the night of 15 September, crowds gather in town squares across Mexico and in foreign consulates. At 11 p.m., leaders ring a bell and recite a patriotic shout honoring the nation and its founding figures. The assembly answers each line, joins in singing the national anthem, and watches fireworks set to music. The next morning, armed forces and marching bands stage formal parades through major avenues, including Mexico City's central boulevard.

When and where

The holiday is observed every year on 16 September, though the primary civic gatherings begin on the evening of 15 September. Its calendar placement marks the exact date when Miguel Hidalgo initiated the rebellion in 1810.

Festivities take place throughout Mexico, centered on the Zócalo in the capital and town squares in every state. Reenactments also occur in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, at Mexican embassies abroad, and within Mexican communities in the United States.

What Mexican Independence Day means

The festival centers on the Cry of Dolores, which has become a primary symbol of self-determination. Repeating the call honors the heroes who fought to establish a sovereign nation free from colonial rule. Ringing the historic bell, waving the national flag, and joining in communal chants reaffirm civic identity and collective unity.

Mexican Independence Day dates: 2026, 2027, 2028

Questions people ask about Mexican Independence Day

See also

Day of the DeadA Mexican remembrance of deceased family and friends with altars, marigolds and feastsOur Lady of GuadalupeA Marian apparition to Juan Diego in Mexico City in December 1531, celebrated on December 12.TapasSmall Spanish snacks or appetizers served hot or cold, often shared among friends.MariachiA Mexican string and trumpet music tradition featuring charro attire and communal singing.

Good reading and sources

• Independence Day (Mexico) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.