Mexican Independence Day is celebrated to commemorate Mexico's declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule. The origin of the celebration dates back to September 16, 1810, when Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the bell of his church in the town of Dolores and delivered the "Grito de Dolores" (Cry of Dolores), calling for the end of Spanish rule and the start of the Mexican War of Independence. This marked the beginning of an 11-year struggle that ultimately led to Mexico gaining its independence from Spain in 1821. The day honors the fight for freedom, national pride, and the quest for equal rights and opportunities, symbolized by this historic call to arms.
Mexican Independence Day is celebrated annually on September 16 with patriotic festivities including parades, fireworks, music, dancing, and traditional food. It is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Mexico, featuring the reenactment of the Grito de Dolores, where the President of Mexico rings the original bell and repeats Miguel Hidalgo's call to arms from the National Palace. The colors of the Mexican flag—red, white, and green—are displayed everywhere during the celebrations.
