Discover everything you need to know about Mexico's Independence Day, celebrated on September 16th. Why and how is it celebrated? And what events are happening on Isla Mujeres to mark the occasion? We've got all the details, from fiestas to events, right here.
September marks one of the most significant dates in Mexico’s calendar. If you’re visiting, you might have noticed an abundance of Mexican flags, lights and decorations in red, white, and green—adorned on cars, motorbikes, shops, restaurants, and streets. That’s because Mexico’s Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) is celebrated this month. It’s a time of deep national pride and patriotism, filled with fiestas, fireworks, flags, and traditional food!
What is Día de la Independencia and El Grito de Dolores?
Mexico's Independence Day festivities span two days, starting on the evening of September 15th and continuing through September 16th. The celebration has a history of over 200 years. There are also events happening in the run up to September 16th here on Isla Mujeres, you may have already seen some singing in the main square if you are currently here.
The History Behind It
To understand why Mexico celebrates this day, we need to look back to the early 1500s when Spain colonized Mexico, renaming it "New Spain." For over 300 years, the indigenous Mexican population endured harsh Spanish rule, facing enslavement, oppression, and the confiscation of their land and wealth. The desire for independence grew stronger over time. In 1810, Father Hidalgo y Costilla, a priest from the town of Dolores in central Mexico, rang his church bells and delivered a powerful speech urging Mexicans to fight for their independence. This speech, known as El Grito de Dolores (The Cry of Dolores), ignited the Mexican War of Independence, which lasted over a decade until August 24th, 1821, when Spain finally recognized Mexico's independence.
How is Día de la Independencia Celebrated?
For over two centuries, Día de la Independencia has been celebrated across Mexico. The president of Mexico, along with local town leaders across the country, reenact The Cry of Independence, delivering variations of El Grito de Dolores at 11:00 PM on September 15th. The phrase "¡Viva México!" echoes throughout the nation, followed by fireworks, music, dancing, food, and festivities that continue on September 16th.
What Events Are Happening on Isla Mujeres?
On Isla Mujeres, the patriotic festivities have already begun. On Saturday, September 7th, there was singing in the town square with the Presentacion "Cantale a Mexico con el Corazon" (Presentation - sing to Mexico with the heart), where local talented singers showcased their voices. This competition continues on Saturday 14th and on the 21st in the town square at 8PM.
On Saturday, September 14th, there is also a pilgrimage of boats to Isla Contoy, this local tradition begins at 8AM, when over 100 boats go to the uninhabited island for a religious ceremony.
The patriotic celebrations continue on Sunday, September 15th, with a parade in the island's downtown area, infront of the naval base. Many of the schools, military and public services take part in this parade, which will begin from 8AM.
On the night of Sunday, September 15th there is also parade starting at 8PM from the north end of Avenida Hidalgo near Stingray. The Desfile Alegria Mexicana (Mexican Joy Parade) will proceed along the island's main bar and restaurant strip, with participants dressed in traditional outfits from all across Mexico, waving flags, and dancing, the parade ends at the Explanada Municipal, the main town square at the south end of Avenida Hidalgo. Here crowds will gather outside the municipal building, where celebrations begin at 8:30PM.
At 10:45PM, the island's president, Atenea Gómez Ricalde, will deliver her variation of El Grito from the balcony, ringing the bell at 11PM. The night typically concludes with fireworks, live music, and dancing. This year’s performer is Chico Che Chico.
If you're on the island, make sure to join in the festivities!
The downtown area of Isla Mujeres can get quite busy on the evening of September 15th, with many people dining out before heading to the main square for El Grito de Dolores and the 8:30PM celebrations. We recommend reserving a table for dinner, especially at popular restaurants along Avenida Hidalgo, such as Ocean's, Rusticco and El Mexicano to secure a good view of the parade. Let us help you with your reservation.
Enjoy the night. ¡Viva México!
Credit for photos - Atenea Gómez Ricalde - Facebook
Thank you for the hard work of President Atenea Gómez Ricalde and her team at the Municipal of Isla Mujeres for providing us with the photos and information, so that we can invite you and keep you up to date with current events on the island.
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