This year will mark the 216th anniversary of Mexico’s Independence, celebrated on Wednesday, Sept. 16.
It is a significant Mexican holiday, known as 16 de septiembre. Mexico’s Independence Day reflects the beginning of a nationwide revolutionary movement that ultimately led to independence from Spain in 1821.
In Mexico, there are many celebrations around the country. However, in the United States, Hispanic communities also plan celebrations on Sept. 16.
Here is what to know about Mexico's Independence Day.
When is Mexican Independence Day?
Mexico’s Independence Day is celebrated on Sept. 16. It marks one of the most important moments in Mexican history: the start of the country’s war for independence from Spain in 1810.
What is September 16 in Mexico?
?The movement is tied to the Grito de Dolores, when Catholic
priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla delivered a call for rebellion in the early hours of Sept. 16, 1810, in the town of Dolores, near present-day Guanajuato.
In his speech, Hidalgo urged people to rise up against Spanish colonial rule, launching a long and complex war for independence.
The call, known as El Grito de Dolores, or the Cry of Dolores, is named after the town of Dolores, Mexico.
In some Mexican celebrations, the traditional Grito de Independencia is done on the night of Sept. 15 in a ceremony officiated by leaders.
María Cortés González may be reached at 915-546-6150; mcortes@elpasotimes.com; @eptmaria.bsky.social on Bluesky, and @eptmariacg on TikTok
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: When is Mexican Independence Day and why does it matter?
