Local life · Mexican traditions

Mexican Independence Day

The celebration begins September 15

By Abby Walker · Originally published September 14, 2026

Puerto Morelos Mayor Blanca Merari Tziu Muñoz waving the Mexican flag during an Independence Day ceremony — Mayor Blanca Merari Tziu Muñoz leads Puerto Morelos in celebrating Mexican Independence Day. Photo courtesy of the Ayuntamiento de Puerto Morelos.

Each September, Mexico celebrates its Independence Day. The date is September 16, but the celebration begins the night before, when communities across the country gather for El Grito.

A celebration with a powerful voice

During the celebrations, you may hear someone shout “¡Viva México, cabrones!”

A literal English translation can sound roughly like “Long live Mexico, bastards!”—which makes it seem much more hostile than it usually is in this setting.

Mural depicting Miguel Hidalgo rallying the people at the beginning of Mexico’s struggle for independence

It is not part of Papa Hidalgo’s original Grito or the formal words used in the official ceremony.

But when shouted in the plural after ¡Viva México! during a celebration, it is generally an emphatic cry of pride, unity and excitement—something closer in spirit to “Long live Mexico, everyone!” with considerably more punch.

A note for visitors

It is not normally directed at visitors, so there is no reason to take offense.

Independence Day is not Cinco de Mayo

Many people in the United States believe Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day. It is not!

Two dates, different histories

September 16 · Mexican Independence Day
May 5 · The Battle of Puebla

Cinco de Mayo remembers the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, when Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated an invading French army.

Historical artwork depicting Mexican forces fighting the French army during the Battle of Puebla

It was an important and inspiring victory, but it was one battle in a different conflict, more than 50 years after the independence movement began.

Celebrating in Puerto Morelos

For visitors staying in one of our Puerto Morelos vacation rentals, this is a wonderful time to see the town dressed in green, white and red and to share in one of Mexico’s most important national traditions.

Folkloric dancers in colorful traditional dresses performing during a Mexican celebration — Music, dance and colorful traditional dress are part of Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations.

Have fun. Show appreciation.

At Abbey del Sol, we believe a stay becomes richer when visitors understand the traditions of the community they are enjoying.

Join the celebration respectfully, enjoy the food and music, and remember that you are taking part in a national commemoration with deep meaning for the people around you.