The celebration of “El Grito de Independencia” in Merida is one of the most emblematic national parties in the whole country…
207 years ago on September 16 just past midnight, Miguel Hidalgo called the Mexican people to war claiming for liberty. He shouted his ideals to the people and sounded the bell of the church in the town of Dolores, and the movement ended eleven years later with the independence of Mexico. In Mexico this event is called “El Grito de Dolores o de Independencia,” most commonly referred to as just “El Grito”.
For Mexicans this historical moment is what we relive each September 15 at night in the huge parties that are held in each town of the country, where all the people meet at the City’s principal park in front the building where the most important authority in the city shouts the words ¡VIVA MEXICO! And all the people around repeat as loud as their voices allow them.
The Yucatan Governor at “El Grito” (Photo: SIPSE)
Nowadays in Merida the event is held at “La Plaza de la Independencia” the official name of “La Plaza Grande” at the heart of downtown, and is hosted by the Yucatan Governor. The people meet in front of the Governors Palace and have fun with all the attractions around, like the traditional concert by one national guest artist and the traditional food all around the park. Later when midnight is approaching the Governor appears, in the second floor of the building where he works, and gives a short speech to all in attendance which ends with a loud ¡VIVA MEXICO! The governor’s intervention ends with an amazing fireworks spectacle.
This year the guest artist will be “La Arrolladora Banda el Limón” which will play their most known hits like “Me va a pesar”, “El final de nuestra historia”, “Y que quede claro”, among others, to enliven the dance in the center of the city, after the pyrotechnic display and the ceremony in the Government Palace.
The event will begin on Friday Sept. 15 at 9 p.m. It is recommended to arrive early because every year the Yucatecans attend in large numbers to this huge party. Be aware that many streets around la Plaza Grande will be closed and traffic diverted.
(Image: Google, State Government)
All the restaurants of the city also offer special promotions and traditional dishes, so it it’s a good alternative to have a proper celebration of Mexico’s national day with a lot of Mexican food and drinks.
For Mexicans this celebration has a deep meaning of national identity and pride to be Mexican, and this is the celebration where no matter in which state you were born, we are all Mexicans. And this party is for us and for all people who love this country as much as a Mexican does.
By Jorge Barrera Rojas for TYT
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