When September arrives in Mexico, the air feels charged with pride, music, and celebration. Mexican Independence Day is one of the country’s most important holidays — and if you’re visiting during mid-September, you’ll experience Akumal and nearby towns buzzing with festivities. But before you raise your glass and shout “¡Viva México!”, let’s clear up a few common myths and take a closer look at the traditions that make this holiday so meaningful.

Myth: Independence Day is on Cinco de Mayo

One of the most common misconceptions outside of Mexico is that Cinco de Mayo is Independence Day. In fact, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when Mexican forces defeated the French army. The true celebration of independence takes place on September 16th, honoring the start of the revolution against Spanish rule in 1810.

Myth: Independence Day is on Day of the Dead

Another myth is that Independence Day is tied to Día de Muertos. While both holidays are full of color, family gatherings, and national pride, they are entirely separate. Day of the Dead occurs in late October and early November, while Mexican Independence Day takes place in mid-September.

A Brief History

The movement toward Mexico’s independence began on the night of September 15, 1810, in the small town of Dolores (today Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato). A priest, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, rang the church bell and called the townspeople to rise up against Spanish rule. This call to arms is remembered as the Grito de Dolores — the Cry of Dolores — and it marked the start of the struggle for independence, which Mexico finally achieved in 1821.

Tradition: Harvest Season Festivals

Because Independence Day falls in September, it overlaps with the harvest and livestock fair seasons across Mexico. This means the holiday is often celebrated with fairs, rodeos, dances, food stalls, and community festivals. If you’re in Mexico during this time, you’ll find town squares filled with delicious local foods, handmade crafts, and festive rides.

Tradition: The Grito de Independencia

On the night of September 15th, towns and cities across Mexico gather in their central squares. At 11 p.m., the mayor, governor, or even the President of Mexico re-enacts Father Hidalgo’s famous call to arms. With flags waving and bells ringing, the leader shouts the historic words ending with the victory cry:
“¡Viva México! ¡Viva la Independencia!”
The crowd responds with thunderous cheers, followed by fireworks, music, and dancing late into the night.

How to Celebrate in Akumal

While Akumal may be a quieter town, the nearby pueblos and cities, like Tulum and Playa del Carmen, host lively Independence Day celebrations. Many restaurants and beach clubs also join the spirit with special menus, mariachi music, and, of course, plenty of tequila and mezcal.

Visiting during September means you’ll not only enjoy calm beaches and turtle nesting season, but you’ll also witness Mexico at its most patriotic and festive.

So pack your green, white, and red, and get ready to shout “¡Viva México!” under the Caribbean sky. Contact us at hola@akumalmx.com for more information about your upcoming trip to Mexico.