Every September, Mexico and much of the U.S. light up with green, white, and red. There’s music, dancing and enough tacos, tamales, and churros to feed entire neighborhoods. But the real heart of Mexican Independence Day isn’t just the food or the fiestas—it’s El Grito de Dolores, “The Cry of Dolores.”
It all started way back in 1810 in a small town called Dolores, when Father Miguel Hidalgo rang the church bell and gave a fiery speech that basically said: “Enough of Spanish rule—it’s time to stand up!” (I’m paraphrasing because nobody quite knows exactly what was said). That early morning rally cry kicked off Mexico’s fight for independence, which lasted until 1821. Although nobody knows Hidalgo’s exact words we know he called for freedom, equality, and unity under the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Here’s where things get interesting: today, El Grito is celebrated not in the morning but late at night, at 11 p.m. Why? You can thank President Porfirio Díaz, who decided to line up the celebration with his own birthday on September 15. The tradition stuck, and now every year the President of Mexico reenacts the Grito from the National Palace balcony, ringing Hidalgo’s bell and leading the country in thunderous shouts of “¡Viva México!”
Of course, you don’t have to be in Mexico City to feel the energy. Here in Escondido, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido will already be celebrating Latino Heritage Month with many free events including additional dates in September for Música en la Plaza. Just like in modern day Mexico City, Grito is done in the evening, precisely at 9pm—not just because that’s when Hidalgo’s words are remembered, but also because let’s be honest: music, dancing, and fiesta just hit differently under the stars. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder in the plaza with neighbors, shouting “¡Viva!” at the top of your lungs, you feel connected not only to Mexico’s history, but to everyone around you. It’s electric and an experience you won’t soon forget.
And while we’re on the subject, let’s clear up one of the biggest myths out there: Mexican Independence Day is not Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when Mexico scored a big upset against the French. It’s important, sure—but it’s not independence. September 16 is the real date.
So why does El Grito matter today? Because it’s more than a history lesson—it’s a reminder of resilience and community. It’s a unifying shout that has crossed borders and generations. Whether you’re in Mexico City’s massive Zócalo or right here in the moment that the crowd roars “¡Viva México!” you’re part of something that started over 200 years ago and is still going strong.
El Grito will be part of Musica en la Plaza this Friday night at the Lyric Court at California Center for the Arts, Escondido. Music begins at 7:30, El Grito is at 9pm.
