September 16
This day is celebrated as Independence Day. For this great annual celebration, which begins on the evening of September 15th, the country's states, squares, city halls, municipalities, and localities share a series of measures to protect visitors and ensure events safely take place.
Prohibition Law: For some years, the Mexican government has applied the Prohibition Law during this celebration and other relevant dates in which alcohol consumption significantly increases. With this measure, alcoholic beverages can be consumed in private homes and events, or in restaurants when accompanied with food, but you cannot buy or consume alcohol in the streets or public squares. If you have doubts about alcohol consumption at a restaurant, please call them and ask.
Breathalyzer: During these patriotic days, state governments and municipalities set up mobile stations with police officers and certified doctors who have the power to inspect drivers throughout the day, especially at night, for driving under the influence.
Driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages and other substances is prohibited and is punishable by fines, as well as administrative arrest for up to 72 hours.
Don’t Drink & Drive!
Traditionally, the national holiday begins on September 15th, when the President of the Republic does the “Cry of Independence” or “Cry of Dolores” from the National Palace around 11:00 p.m, ringing the Dolores bell for the thousands of Mexicans who gather in the capital’s main square, known as the Zócalo.
As a historical fact, the Dolores bell the president rings for the "cry" is the same one Miguel Hidalgo used around 2:00 a.m. on September 16, 1810.
On September 16th, families and friends gather to celebrate the nation´s biggest event of the year. Throughout the month of September, you can find street vendors selling Mexican flags, sombreros, trumpets, rattles and traditional Mexican costumes on the capital's streets.
On Independence Day, officially September 16th, a Mexican Army military parade is held, which gathers ground and air troops in the city’s main square. This parade is also held in different cities across the country to commemorate the heroes who gave us our homeland.
Here are some Mexico City locations you can experience this amazing celebration.
This hotel, located in the heart of Mexico City's Historic Center, holds yearly Independence Day celebrations, which include dinners, dances, shows and other activities.
We recommend you make your reservation through the hotel where you are staying at least 8-10 months in advance.
Address: 16 de septiembre 82, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Phone: 55 1083 7700
Average cost: Starting at $7,950 MXN per person.
The Hilton hotel offers different activities every year in which you can enjoy live shows, traditional dinners and delicious drinks at night.
Address: Av. Juárez 70, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06010 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Phone: 55 5130 5300
Average cost: $1,449 MXN per person before August 31.
Rooms: Starting at $3,400 MXN.
If your goal is to visit one of the most emblematic restaurants still standing from colonial times, try the stuffed chili pepper covered in walnut sauce, dance until dawn and live an unforgettable night, we recommend you visit this hacienda for an authentic Mexican night.
Address: Vázquez de Mella 525, Col. del Bosque, 11510, CDMX.
Phone: 55 5283 3055 o 55 5283 3056
Average dinner cost: $1,400 MXN per person.
Average dinner and dance cost: $1,600 pesos per person.
If you want to experience a party and listen to mariachi, we recommend this cantina where you can participate in the "cry," eat Mexican snacks and enjoy a special show. We recommend you make reservations in advance.
Address: Andrés Bello 10, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Phone: 55 5281 3524
Average dinner cost: Adults $780 MXN. Children $450 MXN.
