Celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day!

How Will You Celebrate the Real Mexican Independence Day?

There’s nothing wrong with salting your margarita class on Cinco de Mayo – but let’s get the record straight: today is Mexico’s actual Independence Day. That’s right – September 16, 1810, is when Mexico began fighting for its freedom from Spanish colonizers. What started as an isolated revolt against the Spaniards turned into a full-fledged war of independence, led by Catholic priest Father Hidalgo who made the first cry for freedom during an impassioned speech in the town of Dolores.

This day is different from our Independence Day because September 16 commemorates the beginning of the struggle – which continued into a near-decade-long war. Why does this matter? Mexico has a culture of resilience, hard work, and pride through action. The battle of independence may have taken a decade, but the prolonged spirit of freedom from oppression and unflinching cultural pride has shaped Mexican culture as we know it. Are you looking for ways to get festive this Mexican Independence Day? Here are some ideas.

How To Observe Mexican Independence Day, In Style

1. Pull up a chair at your favorite Mexican restaurant. Cooking, eating, and sharing in sensory delight is a huge part of what makes Mexican culture so beloved. By enjoying a traditional Mexican meal today, you actively participate in culture and keep the spirit alive.
2. Prepare some Menudo. Menudo is a big, chunky stew made from beef, corn, tripe, spices, and cilantro – and is revered as a traditional hangover cure in Mexican culture. Whether or not you’re planning on making the party a wild night of cervezas, having a bowl of Menudo ready to go will make you feel deeply satisfied.
3. Listen to the Grito de Dolores. The Mexican President traditionally reads from Hidalgo’s speech, with a modern, relevant spin, every year on Independence Day. 
4. Head down to Santa Ana. If you’re looking for a full-fledged parade and street party, the Santaneros (residents of Santa Ana) have you covered! 
5. Paint the town red, white and green. The Mexican flag colors can also become the colors you wear in your September 16 outfit, or they can show up in what you cook (tomatoes, crema, and parsley anyone?) or how you decorate if you’re celebrating from home.

The Best Flowers for Mexican Independence Day

Speaking of decorating your home – there are all sorts of colorful assortments, traditional flowers, and exotic foliage to bring the sensational south-of-the-border Patria into your home. The team at Allen’s Flower Market delights in celebrating culture and the vibrant wealth of color, tradition, and creativity that we share with our Mexican neighbors. Channel the scenery in tropical Mexico with Jungle Love, an ecstatic arrangement with exotic heliconia, birds of paradise, and a base of Curley Willow. Or, hearken to the dry northern Mexican desert region where the Grito de Dolores was initially heard with Oasis, a rock garden with cactus and succulents. A lush, multifaceted arrangement such as Branching Out is a great option that suggests Fall color while evoking fresh fruit and a bright palette. Or, if you’re eager to get your Red, White, and Green on, fill your home with the adornment of the Mexican flag. Let us know how we can support your creative vision - custom arrangements are our specialty! 

Allen’s Flower Market offers fast, easy delivery to accommodate your schedule. With locations across Southern California, it’s no surprise that we’ve been voted Best Florist in Long Beach since 2011. If you want to see and smell our arrangements in person, stop by our floral design stores in Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley, or Sunland.  https://www.allensflowermarket.com/flowers-for-all-occasions/