images via El Comite Mexicano Civico Patriotico

East L.A. hosts the 68th Annual Mexican Independence Day Parade and Festival on Sunday, September 7. Celebrate Mexican Independence at the “oldest and largest Hispanic parade in the country,” followed by a family-friendly day of culture, entertainment, and fun. Go Metro for stress-free transportation to the heart of the action, and take advantage of a special festival perk for transit riders.

The East L.A. Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. and travels down Cesar E. Chavez Avenue from Mednik to Gage Avenue. At noon, the celebration returns to Cesar Chavez between Mednik and 1st Street until 6 p.m. Both parade and festival are free and open to the public. Last year’s attendance was approximately 20,000! (All the more reason to Go Metro and avoid the hunt for parking.)

Show your valid TAP card at the Radio Centro Booth near the main stage and receive a raffle ticket for four tickets to a major theme park in Southern California. The winners will be announced throughout the day and you must be present to win.

To arrive at the East L.A. Parade and Festival via Metro, take the Gold Line to East L.A./Civic Center Station and walk 10 minutes north on Mednik to Cesar E Chavez Avenue. Trip Planner or Google Transit can help you plan your best route.