About Mexican Independence Day
Mexican Independence Day falls on September 16, but the party begins the night before: at 11 PM on September 15, the President rings the bell of the National Palace and delivers El Grito de Dolores — the cry of independence first raised by Father Hidalgo in 1810 — to a packed Zócalo answering "¡Viva México!"
September 16 itself brings the military parade through Mexico City and celebrations in every plaza in the country: mariachi, pozole and chiles en nogada, fireworks, and green-white-red everywhere. (And no — Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico's independence day; this is the real one.)
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Wednesday, September 16, 2026next |
| 2027 | Thursday, September 16, 2027 |
| 2028 | Saturday, September 16, 2028 |
| 2029 | Sunday, September 16, 2029 |
| 2030 | Monday, September 16, 2030 |
FAQ
When is Mexican Independence Day?
September 16 — with the famous Grito ceremony on the night of September 15.
What is El Grito?
The reenactment of Father Hidalgo's 1810 call to rebellion — delivered by the President from the National Palace balcony every September 15 night.
Is Cinco de Mayo Mexico's independence day?
No — Cinco de Mayo marks the 1862 Battle of Puebla. Independence Day is September 16.