On September 16, Mexicans across the world commemorate the country's declaration of independence from Spain. This is much more of a national celebraton than Cinco de Mayo, which marks Mexico's victory over a French uprising in the town of Puebla in 1862. The May 5th holiday is primarily celebrated in the United States, thanks to clever marketing by Corona Beer and others who stand to profit from yet another holiday (not that we're complaining, as we can always use another excuse to party).
On September 16, 1810, the grandfathers of the Mexican republic rang a church-bell and began a war for independence from Spain, which took more than 10 years to win. To mark the occasion, streets, houses, cars and buildings across Mexico are decorated with streamers, baloons, flags and colored lights. National cuisine is celebrated with feasts of mole poblano, chile enogada and guacamole and mariachi bands stroll the streets as everyone joins in the singing.
Across the Riviera Maya, visitors should expect to see decorated buildings, festive displays at local businesses and plenty of special offers at area restaurants and bars. Mariachi music will ring out loudly along Playa del Carmen's Fifth Avenue and the nightspots from Cancun to Tulum will be packed with travelers from across Mexico celebrating with tourists from around the world.
It's a great time to be in Mexico and enjoy one of the world's great parties.
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