We promise, these 8 facts about Mexican Independence Day will help you understand the celebrations so much better.
How much do you know about Mexico? Sure, we all love the beaches and luxury resorts, but we think these facts about Mexican Independence Day will help give you a more rounded understanding of the nation.
After all, we’re now celebrating 200 years of Mexican Independence!
So let’s get expanding our minds with some top Mexico facts.
Check out our Mexico Travel Guide to learn even more.
8 Facts about Mexican Independence Day
1. It’s celebrated on September 16th, not May 5th
Often confused with Cinco de Mayo, the date celebrating the victory of the Mexican people over Spain at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Independance Day is in fact September 16th. Save May 5th in your calendar though as the Cinco de Mayo festivities are not to be missed.
2. Fact 1 is slightly untrue
Whilst Mexican Independence Day is in fact on 16th September, the celebrations fall over 2 days. September 15th is a reenactment of El Grito de Dolores whilst September 16th is a celebration of the actual day of independence, similar to those of the 4th of July celebrations in the USA.
That was sneaky of us, we understand, from here on out we’ll be completely down the line with you.
3. There is an actual Reenactment
A variation of the The Cry of Dolores speech is recited every year at 11pm on the 15th September by the current president of the country and city officials throughout Mexico.
4. The menu takes on a red, white and green hue
It’s not a party without food! Look out for national flag themed Mexican cuisine with meals inspired by the green, red and white hues of the national flag.
Traditional and delicious Mexican dishes like Chiles en Nogada, Pork Tinga, Tamales de Puerco and Birria de Borrego are always on the menu.
Top tip:
Try ‘Menudo’ the day after the celebrations, Mexicans claim it to be the perfect remedy for a hangover or as they call it “la cruda”.
5. Mexico gained independence back in 1821
The Declaration of Independence of the Mexican Empire was signed on September 28, 1821. That means this year we’re celebrating the 200th anniversary.
You may want to consider a 2021 getaway to experience the very best Mexican resorts to commemorate.
6. Mexico was actually called New Spain
In 1521 Spain conquered what is now known as Mexico. During the time the area was under Spanish rule it was called the Viceroyalty of New Spain which explains its Latin/Spanish roots that are present to this day.
7. There’s significance behind the red, white and green of the flag
The green represents the Mexican independence. The white celebrates the religion at the heart of the Mexican culture and people. And the red is the union between the religion and the independence.
Remember this when that obscure question in the pub quiz comes up. You could help drive your team to glory!
8. Of course, it’s a huge party
From mid September, the country is decorated with Mexican flags. The streets are transformed with parties, parades and fireworks. Music can be heard all around the city throughout the day while people dance, dine and drink to celebrate their independence.
The celebrations for Mexcian Independence Day ring out across the world. From Cancún to Carlisle people and businesses love to get involved in the merriment.
Find out more
There you have it, now you’re all clued up and ready for when this year’s celebrations kick in.
But if that introduction to this fascinating nation has whetted your appetite for more info, then click the button below to discover more about Mexico.
