Puerto Vallarta is gearing up for one of its most important holidays — El Mes de la Patria, a celebration of Mexico’s independence. While all of September is considered “the month of the country,”  September 16th is the nation’s actual birthday. Throughout the month, across Mexican cities, the streets are strewn with festive red, white and green decorations (Mexico’s national colors) and street vendors sell celebratory paraphernalia like streamers, balloons and flags to honor the holiday.

Official Independence commemorations start on September 13 with El Dia de los Niños Heroes, an homage to the soldiers who died in the Battle of Chapultepec in 1847. The following day is El Dia del Charro, or “Day of the Cowboy,” and celebrations include local charros (a sport consisting of a mix of rodeo skills and dressage), wearing large sombreros and elaborate jackets and riding through the streets of downtown on horseback. The festivities continue that evening with music, dancing, food, drinks and traditional charro-style calf roping on the Malecón.

September 15 is recognized as Noche del Grito or “Night of the Yell.” Across Mexico at 11pm, citizens gather in their main plazas while the mayor, along with the President of Mexico from the National Palace in Mexico City, gives “El Grito” (literally the yell or shout) of independence. Finally, on September 16, the official day of independence, a patriotic celebration is punctuated by parades, ceremonies, concerts and lively parties.

Mexico became independent in 1810 when one of the nation’s leaders, Miguel Hidalgo, is believed to have made the first El Grito de la Independencia in the town of Dolores, Mexico. The cry called for the end of 300 years of Spanish rule, redistribution of land, and racial equality.

For details about how to participate in the Independence festivities, please inquire with reception.