7 Ways To Celebrate Mexico's Independence Day In The USA

¡Viva México! ¡Viva!

September 16 marks Mexico's Independence Day.

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A sea of red, white and green covers cities and towns across Mexico this month. Flags, flowers and decorations line the streets, parties abound and fireworks fill the sky. "Viva Mexico" and "Viva la independencia" are shouted amidst celebratory crowds. It's Mexico's birthday and here's what you can do to celebrate this great day even if you find yourself on the other side of the border.

7. Eat

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Cook up a traditional Mexican feast and enjoy one of the best cuisine in the world! Want some cooking inspiration? Skip the Rick Bayless recipes and check out these awesome bloggers instead!

6. Sing

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Mexican musicians love paying homage to their homeland and there's no shortage of songs that express love for our beautiful country.

5. Dance

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Whether it's traditional Aztec dances, cumbia, la quebradita, or typical folklore dance, put on your dancing shoes and celebrate!

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4. Dress in Traditional Garb

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livingtextilesofmexico.wordpress.com

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Although the majority of Mexicans opt for modern clothing these days, many people dress up in traditional, turn-of-the-century clothing for Mexico's Independence Day. Textiles, colors and patterns vary by region, but each is beautiful in its own way.

3. Attend a parade

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Many cities around the country hold parades to celebrate Mexico's Independence Day. Check if there's one near you!

2. Recite "El Grito"

Mexico's Independence Day is celebrated on the day Miguel Hidalgo is believed to have made the cry of independence. Each year on the night of September 15 the President of Mexico rings the bell of the National Palace in Mexico City and recites "El Grito" as a shout of patriotism. It's done right before midnight to ring in the official start of Sept. 16 which is Mexico's Independence Day.

English translation:

Mexicans!

Long live the heroes that gave us the Fatherland (and liberty)!

Long live Hidalgo!

Long live Morelos!

Long live Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez!

Long live Allende!

Long live Galeana and the Bravos!

Long live Aldama and Matamoros!

Long live National Independence!

Long Live Mexico! Long Live Mexico! Long Live Mexico!

1. Remember Your Roots

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Take a second to remember where your family comes from and the struggles they've endured to make it in this country. But don't only remember your ancestors, honor your fellow brothers and sisters in the motherland by demanding change and progress be made to save the country we hold so dear to our hearts.

¡Viva México!