Mexico celebrates its Independence Day annually on September 16th. In fact, this is the country’s most important national holiday. It is important not to confuse this celebration with Cinco de Mayo. For visitors, Cancun offers a wide range of activities to take part in this patriotic event.
The “El Grito de Dolores” Ceremony
First, the celebration officially kicks off with the “El Grito de Dolores” ceremony on the night of September 15th. This tradition reenacts the historic call to arms by priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in 1810.
Around 11:00 PM, a local authority appears on a balcony to cheer the national heroes. Afterward, the gathered crowd chants the famous exclamation, “¡Viva México!”
Traditional Gastronomy and Drinks
Of course, food is a fundamental component of the celebration. Chefs prepare several representative dishes for this special occasion.
For example, Pozole is a traditional hominy soup with pork or chicken. Another key dish is Chiles en nogada. It consists of a poblano pepper filled with ground meat and fruit.
Then, a walnut-based cream sauce, parsley, and pomegranate seeds top the pepper, representing the flag’s colors.
In addition, you will find Tamales at nearly every gathering. For drinks, most people toast with tequila, mezcal, or domestic beers.
Activities and Festivities in Cancun
Throughout the city, a festive atmosphere fills Cancun on September 15th and 16th. Decorations in the national colors of green, white, and red adorn streets, buildings, and public squares.
Furthermore, a civic-military parade takes place on the morning of September 16th. In the evening, spectacular fireworks displays light up the sky.
Mexican night at Jolly Roger Pirate Ship
For an alternative entertainment option, the Jolly Roger Pirate Ship offers a Mexican Night at Sea. This experience combines a pirate show with a Mexican menu; as part of the patriotic month celebration, a different specialty dish will be included each week throughout September.