What is "El Grito":
The Grito de Dolores is the call that Miguel Hidalgo made for the people of Mexico to rise up against the authorities of New Spain on September 16, 1810, in the town of Dolores, near Guanajuato. This event is commemorated every year in Mexico on the night of September 15th. People gather in the Zocalos, town squares and plazas and shout: "¡Viva Mexico!" Flag-waving, confetti throwing and fireworks also mark the occasion.Where to Celebrate "El Grito":
The places with the largest gatherings for el grito are the Mexico City Zocalo, where the president initiates the grito from the balcony of the Palacio Nacional. Other popular spots for the celebration are Guanajuato and Queretaro, and other places which were pivotal in the War of Independence.
If you are spending Mexican Independence Day in Mexico, and you enjoy being part of a large crowd, then you should make your way to the town plaza of whatever city you happen to be in by 11 pm on September 15th to participate in the Grito.
Alternative Celebrations:
There are alternative ways to celebrate Mexico's independence, however. Many restaurants and bars offer special Noche Mexicana celebrations, among other events taking place that night. Here are a few options:In Mexico City:
If you are spending the Mexican Independence holiday in Mexico City but you would prefer to avoid the crowds in the Zocalo, you might like to enjoy a Noche Mexicana in one of Mexico City's upscale restaurants. The Antigua Hacienda de Tlalpan is offering a Gran Noche Mexicana with a four course meal and live music for 800 pesos for adults, and 300 for children (drinks and tip not included). More information: Antigua Hacienda de Tlalpan. Other options include the
San Angel Inn and the Elago restaurant in the second section of Chapultepec. Make reservations in advance!Mexican tenor Fernando de la Mora and the UNAM's Philarmonic Orchestra will be performing songs by Mexican composers in a Fiesta Mexicana at the Auditorio Nacional. Concert begins at 8 p.m. Tickets from 400 to 70 pesos. More info: Fiesta Mexicana con la OFUNAM
In Los Cabos:
Baja Cantina Beach Restaurant on Medano Beach is having a Mexican Fiesta Independence Celebration. Starting at 7 pm on September 15, you can enjoy live Mariachi, folk dances, games, prizes and fireworks. Mexican specialties, steaks and fresh local seafood are on the menu. More information:
More info: Baja Cantina Beach Restaurant Independence Day Celebration.
Cabo San Lucas Hard Rock Cafe will celebrate El Grito with special Mexican dishes and drinks. Hard Rock Cafe's band La Base will be playing. Celebration kicks off at 10 p.m. More information: El Grito Party.
Plan Your Own Fiesta:
If you would like to celebrate Mexican Independence Day at home, have a look at our article about how to throw a Cinco de Mayo party - you'll find lots of resources for planning a Mexican fiesta.
