The Cry of Independence is one of Mexico’s most iconic civic events. Every night on September 15th, millions of Mexicans gather in plazas, homes, and civic centers to commemorate the beginning of the country’s struggle for independence, which began in 1810.
Origin of the Cry
The Cry of Independence originates from the call made by the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in the early morning of September 16, 1810, in the town of Dolores (now Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato). Although the exact phrase he uttered is not known with certainty, it is known that it incited the people to rise up in arms against the rule of the Spanish crown, then usurped by the House of Bonaparte, shouting slogans in favor of the Virgin of Guadalupe and freedom. This act marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence.
First Time at the National Palace
The tradition of recreating the Grito began with the first independent governments, but it wasn’t until 1896, during the administration of Porfirio Díaz, that it was held for the first time on the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City. Since then, this ceremony has become an official custom, repeated every year by the President of the Republic.
Current Grito Protocol
The Grito ceremony is held on the night of September 15th, not the 16th, because celebrating it during the early hours of the 16th wouldn’t make much sense given the fact it is a family celebration. The President appears on the central balcony of the National Palace, facing the Plaza de la Constitución (the capital’s Zócalo), generally around 11:00 p.m.
The protocol includes the ringing of the bell: The President rings the same bell that Hidalgo used in 1810.
The Grito: The heroes of Independence are mentioned, with cheers such as:
“Long live Hidalgo!”
“Long live Morelos!”
“Long live Independence!”
“Long live Mexico!” (repeated three times, enthusiastically).
National Anthem: After the Grito, the Mexican National Anthem is sung while the flag is raised.
Fireworks and festivities: Immediately afterward, the Zócalo is illuminated with fireworks, music, and popular celebrations.
This event not only commemorates a historic event but also symbolizes the unity, patriotism, and national identity of the Mexican people.





