El Grito de Independencia | Celebrating Mexican Independence in Germany
El Grito de Independencia: Celebrating Mexican Independence in Germany
September 15-16 is the most important date on the Mexican calendar. Mexican Independence Day, commemorating the start of Mexico's war for independence from Spain in 1810, is celebrated with passion, pride, and festivities across Mexico and by Mexican communities worldwide. If you're Mexican in Germany, this is your time to celebrate, connect with your community, and feel the pride of being Mexican.
The History: What We're Celebrating
The Grito de Dolores (September 16, 1810)
In the early morning of September 16, 1810, Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the bell of his church in Dolores, Guanajuato. He called on his congregation to rise up against Spanish colonial rule, shouting:
"¡Viva la Virgen de Guadalupe!""¡Viva Fernando VII!""¡Viva América!""¡Muera el mal gobierno!"
This "Cry of Dolores" (Grito de Dolores) marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence. Though Hidalgo was captured and executed in 1811, the movement continued, eventually leading to independence on September 27, 1821.
Why September 15?
The celebration actually begins on the night of September 15, commemorating when Hidalgo rang the bell - the moment that started it all. This is when "El Grito" ceremony takes place.
How Mexicans Celebrate
In Mexico
September 15 (Night):
- El Grito ceremony at 11 PM in town squares across Mexico
- The President (or local officials) rings a bell
- Shouts of "¡Viva México!" and "¡Viva la Independencia!"
- Fireworks
- Music and dancing
- Traditional foods
September 16:
- Military parades
- Patriotic celebrations
- Family gatherings
- Traditional foods (chiles en nogada, pozole)
- Red, white, and green everywhere
Traditional Elements
Colors:
- Green: Independence
- White: Religion
- Red: Union
Foods:
- Chiles en nogada (the patriotic dish - green, white, and red)
- Pozole
- Tacos
- Antojitos
Music:
- Mariachi
- Banda
- Traditional Mexican music
Celebrating in Germany
Official Events
Mexican Embassy in Berlin:
- Official El Grito ceremony
- Usually by invitation
- Check embassy website: mexiko.diplo.de
- May have public elements
Consulates:
- Frankfurt, Hamburg consulates may host events
- Check their websites closer to the date
Community Events
Major Cities:
Berlin:
- Community-organized El Grito events
- Mexican restaurant celebrations
- Gatherings in parks or community centers
- Check: Mexicanos en Berlin Facebook group
Munich:
- La Tortilla typically hosts celebrations
- Community gatherings
- Check: Mexicanos en Munich Facebook group
Hamburg:
- Mexican community events
- Restaurant celebrations
Frankfurt:
- Community celebrations
- Mexican restaurant events
Finding Events
- Facebook groups: Search "Mexicanos en your city"
- Mexican restaurants: Many host special events
- Embassy/consulate websites: Official events
- Meetup.com: Mexican cultural groups
- Word of mouth: Ask in the community
Hosting Your Own Celebration
Can't find an event? Host your own!
Planning
Who to invite:
- Mexican friends
- German friends interested in Mexican culture
- Anyone who wants to celebrate
When:
- Evening of September 15 (for El Grito)
- Or September 16 (full day celebration)
Elements to Include
El Grito Ceremony:
- At 11 PM (or earlier for convenience)
- Ring a bell (or use a recording)
- Lead the shouts:
- "¡Mexicanos!"
- "¡Vivan los héroes que nos dieron patria!"
- "¡Viva Miguel Hidalgo!"
- "¡Viva José María Morelos!"
- "¡Viva Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez!"
- "¡Viva Ignacio Allende!"
- "¡Viva Leona Vicario!"
- "¡Viva México!"
- "¡Viva la Independencia!"
- "¡Viva México! ¡Viva México! ¡Viva México!"
Decorations:
- Mexican flags
- Red, white, and green streamers
- Papel picado
- Photos of Mexican heroes
Food:
- Chiles en nogada (if you can make them!)
- Pozole
- Tacos
- Mexican snacks
Music:
- Mexican playlist
- Mariachi music
- Traditional Mexican songs
Drinks:
- Mexican beer
- Margaritas
- Horchata
- Agua fresca
Chiles en Nogada
The traditional Independence Day dish - green chiles, white walnut sauce, red pomegranate seeds. The colors of the Mexican flag.
Making it in Germany:
- Challenging but possible
- Poblano peppers are hard to find (substitute with other large peppers)
- Walnuts, pomegranate available
- See online recipes
Alternative: Make pozole - easier and equally traditional
What to Wear
Traditional:
- Mexican national team jersey
- Traditional Mexican clothing
- Anything red, white, and green
Casual:
- Regular clothes with Mexican colors
- Mexican flag accessories
Connecting with the Community
Before the Celebration
- Join Mexican community groups
- Ask about plans
- Offer to help organize
- Spread the word
During the Celebration
- Introduce yourself to new people
- Share your story
- Take photos
- Enjoy the community
After the Celebration
- Share photos
- Thank organizers
- Stay connected
- Plan for next year
Teaching German Friends
If you invite German friends, help them understand:
Explain:
- The historical significance
- Why this matters to Mexicans
- The traditions and symbols
- How to participate in El Grito
Share:
- Mexican food
- Mexican music
- Mexican culture
- Your personal connection
Virtual Celebrations
If you can't gather in person:
Video call celebration:
- Connect with family in Mexico
- Share El Grito virtually
- Eat together online
Social media:
- Share photos and videos
- Use hashtags: #VivaMexico #ElGrito #MexicanIndependence
- Connect with Mexicans worldwide
Frequently Asked Questions
Is September 16th a public holiday in Germany? No, September 16th is a regular working day in Germany. Because of this, most Mexican community celebrations and "El Grito" events are held on the nearest Saturday evening to allow for a larger turnout and more festive atmosphere.
What is the difference between "El Grito" and Independence Day? "El Grito" (The Cry) happens on the night of September 15th and commemorates the moment Father Hidalgo rang the church bell to start the uprising. September 16th is the actual "Independence Day," celebrating the beginning of the long struggle for freedom. Both are usually celebrated as one large event.
Can I attend the official "Grito" at the Mexican Embassy in Berlin? The official ceremony hosted by the Ambassador is one of the most prestigious events. While some parts may require an invitation, the Embassy often collaborates with local associations for larger, public-facing events. We recommend checking their official website and "Comunidad Mexicana en Berlín" social media pages by late August.
Is it possible to find "Chiles en Nogada" in Germany for the festivities? "Chiles en Nogada" is the most traditional dish for September, representing the colors of the flag. Finding fresh Poblano peppers in Germany is difficult, but some authentic Mexican restaurants in Berlin, Munich, or Frankfurt offer them as a seasonal special. Alternatively, some enthusiasts use large "Bratpaprika" as a substitute.
Do I need to be Mexican to participate in these celebrations? Absolutely not! Mexicans are known for their hospitality and "alegría." These events are a wonderful way for Germans and people of all nationalities to experience the vibrant culture, music, and food of Mexico.
The Meaning Beyond the Party
Mexican Independence Day is more than just a celebration - it's:
- Pride: In Mexican history and culture
- Identity: Connection to Mexican heritage
- Community: Bonding with fellow Mexicans
- Memory: Honoring those who fought for independence
- Hope: For Mexico's future
For Mexicans in Germany, it's a reminder of home and a chance to share our culture with others.
Conclusion
Mexican Independence Day is the highlight of the year for Mexicans abroad. Whether you attend a large community event, host your own gathering, or simply share a meal with friends, the important thing is to celebrate with pride and joy.
¡Viva México! ¡Viva la Independencia!
How do you celebrate Mexican Independence Day in Germany? Share with us on Instagram @mexicangoodies