Mexican Independence Day in Cabo: How to Celebrate on September 15th
If you find yourself in Los Cabos during September, you will very likely hear the term “Mexican Independence Day.” To set the record straight as early as possible: that is NOT a reference to Cinco de Mayo. They are both annual observances of occasions that are part of the nation’s history, and as for which one is more relevant and observed, the former certainly wins.
In Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, September is a month of color, with paper decorations, parades, formal ceremonies, live music, and Mexican food. It is also the month of El Grito. That is, the “Scream” of independence. This is the re-enactment of Father Hidalgo´s call to revolution, which traditionally marks the beginning of Mexican Independence Day, September 15. If you are in Los Cabos at that time, why not enjoy the opportunity to learn about and participate in the regional traditions of Mexico?
What Mexican Independence Day Actually Celebrates
Mexican Independence Day is the day Mexico celebrates its independence from Spanish colonial rule via revolution. It began in the early hours of September 16th, 1810, when Roman Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla called on the town of Dolores to revolt against Spanish authorities.
The call is known as the Grito de Dolores, or Cry of Dolores. It became the initial rallying point in a struggle that ended with independence.
This is not the same event as Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, when Mexican forces defeated the French army. It is a separate historical event and, within Mexico, is generally a much smaller observance than Independence Day.
This can be a bit confusing to visitors because the big celebration happens on the evening of the 15th, and September 16 is the national public holiday. On the 15th, towns and villages all around Mexico celebrate the traditional El Grito ceremony, followed by more parades and civic events the next day.
It’s also interesting to remember the history of Los Cabos. It has a unique story that includes Indigenous people, missionaries, local fishing communities, and the advent of tourism.
For more regional background, explore this guide to the History of Los Cabos before your trip.
What Is “El Grito”?
El Grito is the true heart of the September 15th celebration.
A little before 11:00 p.m., the leader, traditionally the president in Mexico City, and the mayor or other official in smaller cities and towns, steps on the balcony and re-enacts Hidalgo’s historic call to independence. The event may be different in different cities, but the feeling is the same.
There is an official who calls out various patriotic slogans and names of heroes. The crowd responds with a thunderous “¡Viva!” and someone rings a bell to get things going, and there will be fireworks.
How Is Cabo in September?
So, what’s Cabo like in September? In general, warm, humid, and not as busy as some other times during the year. September falls smack in the middle of the region’s low season, and with it can come smaller crowds at popular activities and a slower pace.
Expect hot afternoons, warm nights, and humidity you can feel. If you’re used to the arid weather of the rest of the year, it can be quite different.
September is also part of the Pacific hurricane season, so it’s wise to at least check the weather forecast before you leave and leave yourself open to any changes. We’re not saying your trip will be ruined, but the weather can absolutely turn (especially in the path of a tropical storm or hurricane). Book stuff that you can cancel without penalty and make sure you have a little wiggle room in your plans.
For culture-focused travelers instead of experience-oriented travelers, there is another plus to visiting in September: you can experience Los Cabos in a time of year that is very significant on the Mexican calendar.
September Events in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo
The destination is also the scene of the Mexican Independence Day celebration, which is an official civic holiday and occurs at plazas and other public places throughout Los Cabos.
In Cabo San Lucas, the exact details of the September 15 ceremony and community event schedule will probably be announced in advance. There is also a ceremony in San José del Cabo, and this picturesque historical district is a great place to finally experience the holiday.
Keep an eye out in the days leading up to September 15 for Mexican flags and red, white, and green decorations. Festivities in the community may include music, dance, food vendors, and kids’ activities.
September 16: Independence Day parade. Watch for students, civic organizations, local officials, and more marching through town to represent the different entities in the annual parade.
Since event schedules can vary each year, we suggest contacting the city the week before your trip so you can take part in the planned events.
Where to Find the Best Mexican Food
And you cannot celebrate Mexican Independence without great food, but often it is worth it to venture beyond the normal hideouts this time of year.
For example, there is this dish called chiles en nogada, a traditional Mexican dish that is only available in September (as the ingredients are fresh for harvesting then) and whose colors that represent the Mexican flag are flown everywhere this week right now. It is a big poblano pepper stuffed with meats, nuts, and fruits, then topped with a white creamy walnut sauce and some pomegranate seeds. It has become sort of a staple for Mexican Independence, and usually they are served then.
You may also find pozole, a rich soup or stew made with hominy, typically eaten at celebrations, as well as a plethora of antojitos, which are small bites, such as tacos, tamales, tostadas, etc.
If you’re going to be wandering around public squares and going to community festivals, street food is an easy way to get a taste of what the folks here eat daily. Look for busy stands with lots of people ordering and fresh food being prepared. The rules are the same as elsewhere when it comes to eating outside. Just order where there is good food, clean hands, and good food safety practices.
How to Celebrate Like a Local?
You don’t have to have a whole travel plan for Mexican Independence Day to jump into the holiday. Often, keeping it simple makes the event even more enjoyable.
Wear some green, white, or red to get into the mood. If you’re planning to attend the El Grito itself, be there early. Public squares fill up fast in the hours before the event, and the earlier you arrive, the better the chances you’ll be able to see all the action comfortably.
It’s also very enjoyable to know the patterns of the ritual. For example, when you hear the official shout “¡Viva México!” (long live Mexico), you answer back “¡Viva!” (live!) You don’t have to know every word of the rite to participate respectfully and enjoy the experience.
Ensure that you, your bags, and your belongings are safe in crowded areas, remain mindful of where you are or where you are going if you are traveling with friends or family, and, if you are out enjoying food from a vendor or a meal in a restaurant, be sure to tip your waiter or driver according to the local customs.
But the main thing to keep in mind is the fact that it is an event that holds a genuine meaning for the people of the country and falls squarely within the cultural setting. Feel free to celebrate and enjoy if you wish, but only taking photos is to miss the point entirely.
If you want to understand everyday life in the destination beyond the resort areas, reading about Local Life in Los Cabos can give you useful context before you arrive.
Beyond the Celebrations: Exploring Los Cabos in September
That’s not to say September is just about Independence Day; when you’re not watching fireworks or attending a cry for freedom, when you have a moment or two, having a look around Los Cabos from a different perspective is a good idea.
Strolling around the city streets of San José del Cabo, going to galleries and museums, walking around the neighborhoods, or heading inland to discover the beauty of the union between desert and mountains are interesting proposals.
Viewpoints are some of the best ways to admire the landscape that makes Baja California Sur so unique. And because the weather is considerably hotter, it’s better to choose the coolest hours of the day to do some exercise outdoors.
For guests who like to get out and about, this is one of the great experiences of September in Cabo. You’re not just showing up at a party; you’re in the destination during an important period of the region’s social calendar.
Linger in a town square for El Grito, taste traditional Mexican fall food, or look around at the town displays of red, white, and green on September 15, and Independence Day will provide an entirely new perspective of Los Cabos. Be open, be respectful, and give yourself the time to appreciate how this fiesta is done.
