Grito de Dolores: Mexico's Independence

Since the late 19th century, Mexico has celebrated its independence on September 16. The celebration includes parades, festivals, feasts, parties, dancing, bullfights, rodeos and more! Many non-Mexicans, particularly in the United States, mistake Cinco de Mayo for a celebration of Mexican independence. Lifestyle Villas is here to set the record straight and tell you a little more about Grito de Dolores, Mexico's Independence Day!

Mexican War of Independence

September 16, 1810 marked the beginning of Mexico's struggle for independence. Napoleon's invasion of Spain from 1808 to 1813 heightened the revolutionary fervor in Mexico and other Spanish colonies. On September 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a respected Catholic priest issued a passionate cry known as the "Grito de Dolores" (Cry of Dolores), that amounted to the declaration of war against the colonial government. It called for the end of Spanish rule in Mexico, the redistribution of land and racial equality. Known as the Mexican War of Independence, the conflict continued until 1821, when the Treaty of Córdoba established Mexico as an independent constitutional monarchy under Augustín de Iturbide. Just 18 months later, Antonio López de Santa Anna and Guadalupe Victoria ousted the emperor and established the first Mexican Republic.

Mexican Independence Day Traditions

Today, the celebrations of Mexican independence begin on the night of September 15 and carries over to the next day.

1. On September 15 around 11:00 PM, the President of Mexico rings the bell of the National Palace in Mexico City. He then shouts "a Grito Mexicano" based upon the "Grito de Dolores" with the names of the important heroes of the Mexican War of Independence. It ends with " ¡Viva México!" The bell is then rung again and the Flag of Mexico is waved, followed by the singing of the "Himno Nacional Mexicano" (the national anthem).

2. On September 16, Mexico's Independence Day, the national military parade takes place in Mexico City. Similar celebrations occur in cities and towns all over Mexico and in Mexican embassies and consulates worldwide.

3. In the 19th century, it became common practice for Mexican presidents in their final year in office to re-enact the Grito in the city of Dolores Hidalgo, rather than in the National Palace.

4. September 16 is marked by parades, patriotic programs, band competitions and special programs on the national and local media outlets.

Happy Mexican Independence Day from Lifestyle Villas! If you're planning a trip to Mexico in the near future, give us a call at 1-888-655-9589. Our vacation specialists will work with you to created a customized itinerary for your Los Cabos vacation. In addition to the best luxury villas in Los Cabos, we offer a long list of services and activities to for you to enjoy!

LIFESYLE Villas Los Cabos: BEST Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico! 

LIFESTYLE Villas Los Cabos
Phone: 1-888-655-9589
Mexico: 624-144-4954

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