Mexican Independence Day is September 16, but festivities get underway on the night of the 15th, when crowds gather in town squares across the country to shout "¡Viva Mexico!" Many people confuse Cinco de Mayo with Mexican Independence Day, but these are two distinct holidays, and in Mexico, Independence Day is celebrated far more lavishly. This year Mexico is celebrating 201 years of independence; last year the country celebrated its bicentennial in a grand blow-out celebration. Here's all you need to know about this holiday, its history and how it's celebrated: Mexican Independence Day Facts. This photo guide will lead you through preparing for and joining in el grito de la independencia (the cry of independence) in a Mexican city.
This is the first long weekend of the school year in Mexico. The next one comes in November. Find out what days are official holidays, and which are popularly celebrated in our list of Mexico's national holidays. Also check out Mexico Month-by-Month for info on other festivals and events throughout the year.