There is no exact record of Miguel Hidalgo’s rousing speech that set off a nationwide revolt against Mexico’s Spanish rulers in 1810, but the spirit is captured in modern day orations that will climax with a litany glorifying national heroes and howling cheers of “Viva Mexico!” on Friday, September 15.
The biggest celebration in these parts is in the downtown Guadalajara area, where Jalisco Governor Enrique Alfaro will deliver the “Grito” from the balcony of the Government Palace on the dot at 11 p.m. A lively fireworks display follows.
Grito celebrations throughout the country will be officiated by mayors in small towns and municipalities and by governors in the capital cities of every state. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador will deliver the cry in Mexico City’s Zocalo in front of some 150,000 revelers. The event is televised on all free-to-air Mexican channels.
Streets will be closed off early on Friday in the Guadalajara city center as locals start to stream in to celebrate their national day, waving flags, wearing giant sombreros, blowing horns, eating traditional foods and reveling in the unique, festive atmosphere.
Saturday, September 16 is Independence Day itself and a national holiday. Because the date falls over a weekend, there won’t be a day off for citizens. The “nearest Monday” rule used on other commemorative dates such as Benito Juarez’s birthday doesn’t apply for independence, whose date is written in stone.
Guadalajara’s Independence Day parade sets off from the Glorieta Niños Heroes (Monument to the Disappeared) at around 10 a.m. and files down Avenida Chapultepec past Avenida Hidago to the Avenida Mexico junction. Everyone is welcome.
Taking part will be representatives from military, government and civil organizations. Many Lake Chapala area towns, including Ajijic and Chapala, hold their own parades.