National Holiday Remembers Mexican Revolution
Tara A. Spears
Revolution Day is an official holiday in Mexico and is observed annually on the 20th of November. This holiday celebrates the anniversary of the beginning of the Mexican Revolution—a struggle that ran for approximately 10-years and resulted in Army general José de la Cruz Porfirio Diaz Mori being overthrown. It’s also a holiday from work and school on which people enjoy traditional Mexican foods, and watch or participate in one of the many parades held all over the country. Typically it’s a day of community celebration and jubilance with all of the Jaltemba Bay schools participating in a parade down main street La Penita. But with the threat of spreading covid the usual means of celebrating is altered. The official day off work for government offices and the day the banks are closed is November 15, 2021. While families will travel to the beach, expect a quieter celebration this year without the public parade.
This holiday is often confused with Cinco de Mayo, the date celebrating the victory of the Mexican people over Spain at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Mexican Independence Day is in fact September 16th. Keep the May 5th in your calendar because the Cinco de Mayo festivities are not to be missed.
Whilst Mexican Independence Day is in fact on 16th September, the celebrations fall over 2 days. September 15th is a reenactment of El Grito de Dolores whilst September 16th is a celebration of the actual day of independence. There is an reenactment performed for the media. A variation of the The Cry of Dolores speech is recited every year at 11pm on the 15th September by the current president of the country and city officials throughout Mexico.
Of course, It’s not a party without food! Look for national flag themed Mexican cuisine with meals inspired by the green, red and white hues of the national flag. Typical traditional and delicious Mexican dishes like Chiles en Nogada, Pork Tinga, Tamales de Puerco and Birria de Borrego are always on the menu. Fireworks are common throughout the four day celebration.
There is a surge in national pride that inspires the country to be decorated with Mexican flags. The streets are transformed with parties, parades and fireworks. Music can be heard all around throughout the day while people dance, dine and drink to celebrate their independence. Although the covid pandemic might limit the official public festivities, families will still observe the holiday at home.
The celebrations for Mexican Independence Day ring out across the world. Enjoy this slice of Mexican culture by people watching. Viva Mexico!
