Independence Day Celebration in Puerto Vallarta, México

This weekend, Puerto Vallarta lights up with fiestas as people gather to celebrate Mexican Independence Day, chanting the victorious cheer of “Viva Mexico!” The events in Puerto Vallarta kick off on Thursday the 13th and continue through Sunday the 16th. These festivities are a great opportunity to experience Mexican culture and history while on vacation. Join locals in Puerto Vallarta Mexico to celebrate the beauty, culture, and independence of Mexico.

Mexican Independence Day celebrates the beginning of the war that ended Spain’s colonial rule of Mexico. On September 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Roman Catholic priest, rang the bell of his church and proclaimed the call to arms that began the Mexican War for Independence, an event that is reenacted by the traditional grito. Inspired by the French and American Revolution that occured in the decades leading up to this, revolutionists fought for their own independence and sovereignty from a foreign government for 11 years until September 27, 1821. Since then, Mexicans have honored September 16 with celebrations and remembrance.

The festivities begin Thursday morning with a ceremony to remember a legendary act of military bravery in Mexican history. The Niños Héroes of Chapultepc were six teenage military cadets who died valiantly defending their city against invading US forces on September 13, 1847 during the Mexican-American War. Remembering this event is about celebrating the pride Mexican people still have in their country and their dedication to defending their culture. The anniversary of this act of bravery falls just before Mexican Independence Day and commences the events in Puerto Vallarta this weekend.

Friday morning, the focus is on Mexican culture during the National Charro Day parade. Charros are Mexican horsemen who practice traditional equestrian performances and competitions. The parade is filled with charros, horses, dancing, and music parading down the main streets of Puerto Vallarta Mexico along the Malecon. Find a spot along the streets to watch the show go by and experience the traditions of Mexican culture.

The traditional grito is the highlight of the events in Puerto Vallarta for Independence Day. The call to arms that began the War for Independence is reenacted every year across Mexico on the eve of Independence Day, including by the President of Mexico from the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City. During the events in Puerto Vallarta, the city mayor recites the traditional call to war in the town center before fireworks shoot off over Banderas Bay. At parties in homes, restaurants, and bars across Puerto Vallarta Mexico, people lift their glasses and cheer “Viva Mexico” during the time of the traditional grito.

The culminating event of the festivities is the Taco Fest in Lázaro Cárdenas park. Vendors come together to serve the most flavorful and unique tacos, staples in Mexican cuisine. Try blue tortillas and spicy al pastor meat as you go from booth to booth. The Taco Fest is an excellent time to try something new or snack on your favorite taco after a week of celebrations.

Join in the chants of “Viva Mexico” this weekend during the Mexican Independence Day celebrations, and be a part of the Mexican culture as you take part in the festivities. Enjoy the music, the food, and the traditions during these exciting Independence Day events.