Every year, when September 15th approaches, Mexicans prepare for one of the country’s most important celebrations: Independence Day. However, it’s also when many foreigners confuse this date with May 5th. Yes, that’s right. While both days are reasons for national pride, they’re not the same, and you don’t want to mix them up!
September 15th: ¡Viva México!
Let’s set things straight. September 15th—or more precisely, the night of September 15th to 16th—is when Mexicans commemorate the beginning of the struggle for independence in 1810. That night, in the small town of Dolores, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave the famous “Grito de Dolores,” rallying his compatriots to rise against Spanish rule. And so, the fight for independence began!
What does this mean in practice? People gather to shout across Mexico and in Mexican communities abroad: “¡Viva México!” Town squares fill up, families come together, and there’s no shortage of fireworks, mariachi music, and delicious Mexican food. It’s a national holiday and a moment of patriotic pride.
What About May 5th? Isn’t It the Same Thing?
Ah, the famous Cinco de Mayo, the date many abroad think is Mexico’s Independence Day. But nope! Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862 when a small Mexican army defeated the much larger and more powerful French army. It was an impressive victory and a reason for celebration, but it’s not Independence Day.
In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated primarily in Puebla, where the battle occurred. It’s not a nationwide holiday on the same scale as September 15th. Still, in the United States, Cinco de Mayo has been adopted as a celebration of Mexican culture, especially in Mexican and Latino communities. Why? Good question! It’s probably because it’s a great excuse to enjoy tacos, margaritas, and a Mexican-style party.
Funny Mix-Ups
It’s easy to see why foreigners get confused between these two dates. After all, both are symbols of Mexican pride and resistance, surrounded by music, dancing, and good food. But for a Mexican, confusing September 15th with May 5th is almost like saying that the Fourth of July is Thanksgiving for Americans. Oops!
Some funny situations arise when foreigners, especially in the United States, wish you a “Happy Cinco de Mayo!” in the middle of September or assume that all of Mexico is partying on May 5th as if it were September 15th. It’s like mixing a birthday cake with New Year’s Eve grapes.
Quick Guide to Avoid Confusion
To avoid such mix-ups in the future, here’s a quick guide:
- September 15th: The Grito de Independencia. The date marks the start of Mexico’s fight for independence in 1810. It’s celebrated in a big way, with fireworks, mariachis, shouts of “¡Viva México!” and plenty of traditional food. Think of this date as Mexico’s grand national celebration.
- May 5th: Commemoration of the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It is celebrated mainly in Puebla and, curiously, in the United States. It’s a day to honor a military victory, not Mexico’s Independence Day.
Celebrate with Style, But Don’t Mix Them Up!
So, next time someone asks you about Mexico’s Independence Day, you’ll know the answer. And if you’re a foreigner, next time you want to join the celebration, make sure you do it on the correct date! Mexico has many reasons to celebrate, but September 15th is undoubtedly one of the most important days on the Mexican calendar.
So put on your sombrero, practice your “¡Viva México!” and get ready to enjoy a night filled with pride and joy. And remember, not every day is Cinco de Mayo!
Book our tour here (Boat Ride and Mexican Party)!
