What it’s Really Like Celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day in San Miguel de Allende

Viva México! In beautiful San Miguel de Allende we celebrated Mexico’s Independence Day with the locals. The air was filled with excitement, and the festivities were in full swing as the city marked this important national holiday.

For those unfamiliar, Mexican Independence Day, celebrated on September 16th, commemorates the start of Mexico’s fight for independence from Spain in 1810. It all began with the famous “Grito de Dolores” (Cry of Dolores), a call for rebellion by Miguel Hidalgo, a Catholic priest who fought for equality and freedom for Mexico. This event is reenacted across the country every year on the night of September 15th. It marks the start of the independence movement that lasted until Mexico’s official independence in 1821.

Fireworks Galore

We started our celebration the night of September 15th, from the comfort of our rooftop. From our spot, we were able to witness six different firework displays lighting up the city. Honestly, the fireworks rivaled any 4th of July celebration we’ve seen back in the States. However, while the adults thoroughly enjoyed the spectacular show, it was a bit too loud for our kids, who didn’t appreciate the noise as much.

Tip: If you’re traveling with young children, consider bringing ear protection to help them enjoy the fireworks without discomfort.

The Parade at El Centro

The next morning, we headed to El Centro, the heart of San Miguel de Allende, to catch the Independence Day parade. The parade takes place outside Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the town’s iconic church. We arrived at 11 a.m., hoping to catch the start, but we quickly learned that the parade wouldn’t begin until closer to 11:45 a.m.. The wait was a little long for the kids, but the lively atmosphere and the beauty of the square kept us entertained.

When the parade finally began, it was a wonderful display of local pride. The procession started with children from local primary and secondary schools proudly marching in their uniforms. The girls were fascinated by the elaborate dresses, and the highlight for our little ones was the police on horseback, which added a touch of excitement to the family-friendly parade.

Tips for Families

• Arrive Early: If you’re hoping to snag a good spot for the “Grito de Dolores” reenactment or the parade, arriving early is essential. Not only will you beat the traffic and road closures, but it will also give your kids time to get settled and comfortable in the bustling atmosphere.

• Prepare for the Noise: Fireworks are a huge part of Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations. Ear protection for younger children or those sensitive to loud noises can make the experience more enjoyable for them.

• Teach the History: Before the festivities, take some time to explain the significance of Mexican Independence Day to your kids. Simple stories about Miguel Hidalgo and the “Grito” can help them understand the importance of the day, adding more meaning to the celebration.

• Plan for the Parade: If you’re planning to attend the parade, come prepared with snacks and activities to keep your little ones entertained while you wait. Sunscreen and hats are also essential, especially if you’re watching the parade outdoors. Let the kids take in the excitement of the colorful costumes, music, and traditions!

Final Thoughts

Celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day in San Miguel de Allende was a truly special experience for our family. The energy of the city, the blend of tradition, and the pride of the local community created a magical atmosphere that left a lasting impression. Whether it’s the fireworks, the parade, or just soaking in the culture of the holiday, we highly recommend this experience for any family looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culture.

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