September 16th, Mexican Independence Day, is a day of celebration, cultural pride and overall revelry. The celebration officially kicks off a bit before midnight on September 15th with the grito, or cry, ushering in the festivities. Meant to symbolize the moment in 1810 that Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest, declared independence from Spain in Dolores, Guanajuato (now Dolores de Hidalgo), the grito is now reenacted by municipal, state or federal officials throughout Mexico.  President Peña Nieto will do the honors at the Zócalo in Mexico City.
Here in Puerto Vallarta, the festivities begin on the 15th with various events taking place at the main plaza, including an morning salute of the flag. The traditional grito takes place before midnight in the main plaza and is followed by fireworks and a street party enjoyed by all! The following day, the 16th, a civic parade takes place with military and local school bands participating in the patriotic display.Â
One of Vallarta Food Tours’s favorite ways to celebrate is do our own Vallarta city walking food tour and hit one of the many local restaurants featuring Mexico’s exquisite cuisine.
We can start with The Red Cabbage for its menu inspired by Frida Kahlo for some delicious chiles en nogada. Then off for some amazing tortilla soup at Gaby’s Restaurant and No Way José for some one-of-a-kind tamales. We can finish it off with one of our favorites, El Arrayán, for some delicious duck carnitas and enjoy a jalapeño margarita. Happy Independence to everyone and VIVA MEXICO!Â