Photo of Roberto Zuniga in Unsplash
Today, Mexico and the Central American nations—Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica—commemorate their independence, marked by September 15, 1821, in the case of Central America, and September 16, 1810, in the case of Mexico.
This year's celebrations feature civic events, parades, concerts, and official ceremonies that seek to strengthen historical memory and a sense of national identity.
In Mexico, the focus is on the traditional Cry of Independence which will take place tonight in the capital's Zócalo. Thousands of citizens are already gathering to hear the president repeat the words that commemorate the beginning of the struggle led by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla 215 years ago. In addition to popular music and fireworks, a special security operation and live international broadcast are expected.
In Central America, each country is preparing its own events, but the shared date strengthens regional unity. In San José, Tegucigalpa, Managua, Guatemala City, and San Salvador, the streets were filled this morning with students, marching bands, and citizens carrying national flags. In official messages, the presidents of the region also emphasized the importance of defending democracy and Central American integration in a context of economic and social challenges.
Historians recall that the act of September 15, 1821, signed in Guatemala marked the break with Spain and opened a complex political path, which included the short-lived annexation to the Mexican Empire by Iturbide and the subsequent formation of the current republics.
In 2025, both Mexico and the Central American countries look to the past with pride, but also to the future, seeking to strengthen regional ties, address migration, climate, and economic challenges, and project themselves with a stronger voice in the world.
In the United States, Mexican and Central American independence is also celebrated, especially in cities with a strong Mexican and Central American community. It's not an official national holiday, but it has significant cultural visibility.
Mexico – September 16:
- In places like Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, and New York, “El Grito” protests are held in public squares and consulates.
- There are parades, food fairs, traditional music concerts, and mariachi performances.
- Mexican consulates organize official events and civic ceremonies, often with the presence of local authorities.
Central America – September 15:
- Communities of Salvadorans, Guatemalans, Hondurans, Nicaraguans, and Costa Ricans organize parades and cultural festivals.
- In cities like Los Angeles, Houston, and Washington, D.C., “Central American independence parades” are held, featuring traditional costumes, folk dances, and marimba or punta music.
- Also included are masses, civic events at consulates, and community gatherings.
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