On September 16, 1810, Mexican priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla delivered a fiery speech known as the “Grito de Dolores,” which marked the beginning of an 11-year struggle to end Spanish colonial rule. Today, on September 16, 2024, Mexicans around the world will celebrate Mexican Independence Day with parades, celebrations, and more.
It is important to note that this holiday is often confused with Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates the victory of the Mexican army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Mexican Independence Day, however, marks the true independence of Mexico from Spanish rule.
In Chicago, Mexican Independence Day has become a beloved tradition, drawing hundreds of thousands of people each year. The celebrations offer a glimpse into the size and growth of the Mexican community in the city and suburbs.
This year, Chicago’s 26th annual Mexican Independence Day parade will take place in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Village on Sunday, September 15. It is considered one of the largest parades in the Midwest, with an estimated 400,000 people expected to attend.
The parade will showcase an array of traditions from diverse regions and cultures, including the elegance of quinceañeras, the captivating rhythms of Mexican folkloric dancing, and the skillful artistry of charrería. It will be a kaleidoscope of experiences, highlighting the essence and diversity of Mexican heritage in Chicago and throughout the United States.
The theme of this year’s parade is “Tu Mexico, Tu Chicago,” which focuses on Mexican identity and culture with a special emphasis on representing each state in Mexico. This will be a fantastic opportunity for all attendees to celebrate their heritage and pride in their roots.
In addition to the parade, there will also be the annual Mexican Patriotic Parade on the same day along Commercial Avenue from 87th Street to 100th Street. This event is another chance for the community to come together and celebrate Mexican independence.
But the celebrations don’t stop there. The new El Grito Festival in Grant Park will also take place on Saturday, September 14 and Sunday, September 15. This festival will feature national and local musicians, including mariachis, as well as authentic Mexican food and family experiences. It is a fantastic way to continue the celebrations and honor Mexican culture.
The El Grito Festival may be new, but it carries on a tradition that had previously ended around 10 years ago. In recent years, the absence of such celebrations was filled by hundreds of people gathering downtown in the days leading up to Mexican Independence Day, waving Mexican flags and participating in car caravans. The return of a festival dedicated to celebrating Mexican independence in downtown Chicago is a significant moment for the city and its thriving Mexican community.
However, with large-scale celebrations come potential traffic impacts and road closures. So it is essential for attendees to be aware of their surroundings and plan accordingly. The organizers urge everyone to arrive early and prepare for possible street closures and parking restrictions along the parade route, which can be found on their website. It is also important to note that ramp closures on area expressways are possible during the celebrations.
For those who are unable to attend in person, the Mexican Independence Day parade will be broadcasted live from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Telemundo Chicago, the NBC Chicago streaming channel, and on their respective websites and apps. So everyone can join in on the celebrations, no matter where they are.
The organizers of the parade and festival have worked tirelessly to ensure that this year’s celebrations are an accurate representation of Mexican culture and traditions. They have chosen the theme “Tu Mexico, Tu Chicago” to showcase the strong connection between Mexican and Chicagoan identities. It is a tribute to the rich diversity of Mexican communities throughout the United States, and a reminder that despite being far from their home country, they can always find a sense of belonging in Chicago.
In conclusion, Mexican Independence Day is not just a holiday; it is a celebration of identity, culture, and independence. It is a day to honor the brave men and women who fought for their country’s freedom and to celebrate the vibrant and thriving Mexican community in Chicago. So let’s come together on September 16, 2024, to celebrate and embrace the unity and diversity that make Chicago and Mexico both unique and special.
