Get ready, Los Angeles —September 16 is almost here! Mexico will soon celebrate the 215th anniversary of its Independence, a day many know as El Grito.
The tradition goes back to the early hours of 1810, when Father Miguel Hidalgo rang the bells of the church in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, and called on the people to rise against Spanish rule. His famous Grito de Dolores marked the beginning of Mexico’s fight for freedom, known as ‘El Grito de Independencia.’
Today, El Grito is a joyful celebration of history, culture, and community —and LA is throwing some of the biggest fiestas outside of Mexico. Here are five FREE events you can enjoy with family and friends, all easy to reach on Metro buses and trains:
1. East LA Parade & Festival
This parade and festival have been a beloved tradition since 1946, bringing more than 20,000 people together each year. Expect folklórico dancers, classic cars, decorated buses, local art, food vendors, live music, and family activities. This year’s Grand Marshall is José M. Hernandez, a Mexican-American engineer and former NASA astronaut who grew up working in the fields with his immigrant parents before making history in space in 2009 — where he sent the first ever Spanish-language tweet from orbit. Join this year’s celebration, where Metro is proud to be a sponsor, and take part in honoring culture and community.
- When: Sunday, September 14
- Where: Corner of E. César E. Chávez Ave. and Mednik Ave.
- Time: 10 am – 5 pm
- Go Metro: Take the Metro E Line to East LA Civic Center Station. You can also take the Metro Line 70 to Mednik / Cesar E Chávez.
- For more information: www.eastla-parade.com/
2. La Plaza de la Cultura y Artes
Learn about Mexico’s Independence with music, art, food and family workshops. Enjoy performances by Mariachi Tierra del Sol Juvenil de Los Angeles and the Neighborhood Music School’s mariachi teaching ensemble. Expect some rancheras, boleros, sones, and polkas plus DJ music throughout the day.
- When: Sunday, September 14
- Where: La Plaza de Cultura y Artes – 501 N. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Time: 12:00 pm
- Go Metro: Take the Metro J Line to Aliso St./Los Angeles St. You can also take the Metro Line 78 to Spring / César Chávez.
- For more information: lapca.org/event/fiestas-patrias-family-day
3. El Grito at LA City Hall
Celebrate El Grito at City Hall with this year’s theme: ¡Viva La Resistencia! The night will include live music, lucha Libre, food and family-friendly fun. This year’s madrina will be Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez of District 1.
- When: Saturday, September 13
- Where: Los Ángeles City Hall – 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Time: 5:00 pm -10:30 pm
- Go Metro: Take the Metro B/D Line to Civic Center/Grand Park Station OR take the Metro A/E Line to Historic Broadway Station.
- For more information: www.instagram.com/cd1
4. Olvera Street
Soak up the tradition and energy of Olvera Street with music, cultural activities, giveaways, food and more as Mexican Independence Day and Hispanic Heritage Month come together in one celebration. There will also be health screenings available for the community.
- When: Sunday, September 14
- Where: Olvera Street – 125 Paseo de la Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Time: 6:00 pm
- Go Metro: Take the Metro B/D/A/J Line to Union Station.
- For more information: www.olverastreetofficial./ig.com
5. Downey Theatre
Head to the Downey Theatre for a spectacular evening of mariachi and folklorico performances. Enjoy mariachi Mariachi Premier de El Grullo, Jalisco, Las Meñinas from Jalisco, and special guests from Zacatecas and Mexicali. Add in Mexican food, crafts and community booths. You will have a night full of music, culture, and tradition for the whole family.
- When: Sunday, September 14
- Where: Downey Theatre – 8435 Firestone Blvd. Downey, CA 90241
- Time: 5:00 pm -10:00 pm
- Go Metro: Take the Metro Bus Line 115 to Firestone/Brookshire
- For more information: www.downeytheatre.org/
Discover more from The Source
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.