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El Grito

Jiye Moon

Every September 15th, there is a grand event in Mexico, known as El Grito or El Grito de Dolores. This event is celebrated at the Zocalo, the center of Mexico City. September 15th was the beginning of the fight for Mexico’s independence led by Hidalgo. The origin of El Grito is the moment when Hidalgo tried to incite the people of Dolores to rise up in arms against the Viceroyalty. He rang the bells of his parish while belting out the reasons why they should participate in this fight. To honor as well as celebrate this historical event, alluding to Hidalgo's call, bells at the national palace of Mexico are rung; the nation’s flag is waved and citizens demonstrate respect towards the heroes of Mexico.

El Grito Sep 15, 2022

Even though El Grito is celebrated mainly at a national level, there are some states where their governors carry out individual celebrations for it. But the official celebration of El Grito starts with the rings of the same bell that Hidalgo rang in 1810. Around 11:00 p.m. the president comes out from the balcony of the national palace and shouts out a patriotic message based on the original one announced by Hidalgo. These speeches are different per year; nonetheless, after the national heroes’ names are shouted out, all people shout “¡Viva México!” three times. Before the last bell, the crowd recites their own phrase. The fireworks and Mexico’s anthem conclude the evening festivals. Often these fireworks can be seen from the apartments near the Zocalo.

El Grito Sep 15, 2024

2024 marked the 214th anniversary of the celebration of El Grito. The celebration started with Mexican traditional songs and dances; the tension maximized during the flag ceremony, saluting the flag. After all of this build-up, the president rang the bells, initiated the event, and waved Mexico’s flag. Right after, every citizen sings along with the national anthem. Fireworks and performances begin, signaling the beginning of the festival’s end.

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