Phoenix to Celebrate Mexican Independence with ‘El Grito’ Festival

Phoenix honors El Grito de Dolores with live performances, food, and fireworks, celebrating Mexican heritage and independence.Photo byJorge AguilaronUnsplash

PHOENIX— The City of Phoenix will celebrate Mexican Independence Day on Sept. 15 with the third annual "El Grito" Festival.

The celebration, presented by District 5 City Councilperson Betty Guardado, will kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, according to dtphx.org.

The event is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 3rd Avenue and Adams Street.

Attendees can enjoy live performances, including traditional Ballet Folklorico, Mariachi Continental Azteca, and a headlining performance by Pop and Latin singer Beatriz Adriana, according to elgritophoenix.com.

El Grito

On Sept. 16, 1810, Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued a historic call to arms, urging Mexicans to revolt against colonial oppression.

Known as the Grito de Dolores, Hidalgo's declaration ignited a decade-long struggle that ended 300 years of colonial rule, led to Mexico's independence, and helped shape a distinct Mexican identity.

Its anniversary is now celebrated as Mexico’s national birthday.

In Mexico, El Grito de Dolores is celebrated on the evening of September 15. The President leads the reenactment of Hidalgo’s call to arms, ringing the bell at the National Palace and shouting "¡Viva México!"

This is echoed in town squares across the country, followed by fireworks, patriotic displays, parades, and traditional music and dance.

Streets are filled with people enjoying Mexican food, celebrating their heritage, and honoring the nation's fight for freedom.

Today, that historical cry for freedom continues to resonate with communities worldwide, including Phoenix, where the Mexican-American community has grown significantly in recent decades.

Free public parking will be at 101 W. Adams St. Phoenix.

Click here to check out the website for more information and videos of past year's events.