Sun Sep 14 04:40:00 UTC 2025: ## San Diego Celebrates Mexican Independence Day with Weekend of Festivities

**SAN DIEGO, CA -** San Diego County is gearing up for a vibrant weekend of celebrations honoring Mexico’s 215th Independence Day. From the historic streets of Old Town to parks in Chula Vista and Escondido, residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in Mexican culture through music, dance, food, and traditional crafts.

While the official Independence Day falls on Tuesday, September 16th, commemorative events recalling the pivotal “Grito de Dolores” – the Cry of Dolores – will take place throughout Saturday and Sunday. This historical cry, delivered by Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla on September 16, 1810, ignited the Mexican War of Independence, a struggle that culminated in the signing of the Declaration of Independence of the Mexican Empire on September 28, 1821.

Here’s a glimpse of the planned festivities:

* **Old Town San Diego State Historic Park:** Fiestas Patrias begins Saturday with a parade featuring park staff in period clothing. Visitors can enjoy traditional crafts, historical demonstrations, adobe walking tours, and Folklorico performances. Don’t miss the first-ever “Old Town Guac’ Off” to find the best guacamole in the neighborhood!
* **The Old Globe Theatre (Balboa Park):** The Mexican Independence Day Celebration starts at 11 a.m. Saturday with performances by Mariachi Continental SD, DanzArts, Radical Ensamble, and more. Ambassador Alicia Kerber, Consul General of Mexico in San Diego, will lead the “El Grito” ceremony and a sing-along of the National Anthem.
* **University of San Diego (Shiley Theatre):** The fourth Annual Celebracion Mexicana will feature Mariachi Real de San Diego and dancers. Mexican snacks, candy, and artisan crafts will be available for purchase.
* **Chula Vista’s Memorial Park:** On Sunday, Mayor John McCann will host a traditional Mexican Independence Day celebration from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with mariachi, ballet folklórico, and music from Norteño singer Tapy Quintero. The El Grito will be led by the Consul General of Mexico’s Office in San Diego.
* **Escondido’s Grape Day Park:** The Fiestas Patrias Festival will feature all-day activities, including a church Mass, traditional dancing, mariachis, ballet folklorico, live performances, two stages, a beer and wine garden, food and craft vendors, and a children’s area, culminating in an official “El Grito” performance at 9:30 p.m.
* **Vista:** Noon, Vista will host its second annual Fiestas Patrias, featuring a soccer tournament, kids play area, live music and dance, local food and businesses and The Mexican Consulate in San Diego will lead the Grito de Independencia Ceremony.

With a diverse range of events across the county, San Diego promises a memorable weekend celebrating the rich history and vibrant culture of Mexico.

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