Cries of freedom: Where to celebrate Mexican Independence in San Diego this weekend
Your guide to enjoying activities, performances and community while commemorating 215 years since Mexico kicked off fight for independence.
Written by Sam Barney-Gibbs, Edited by Lauren J. Mapp
Sept. 16 marks the 215th Día de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day), celebrating the start of a revolution led by Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.
In 1810, his “Grito de Dolores” (Cry of Dolores) was publicly read in the town of Dolores, decrying 300 years of Spanish rule.
Today, gritos, fiestas patrias (patriotic celebrations) and other events in honor of Mexican Independence Day continue across the border in San Diego.
Due to increased safety fears — especially for undocumented immigrants who may wish to attend these events — many celebrations in San Diego have been scaled back this year.
Still, organizations, government officials and the public will come together this weekend to commemorate the start of Mexican independence. Here are a few local events to check out for the holiday.
Sept. 13
Linda Vista: Celebración Mexicana is the signature event for Ballet Folklorico San Diego Dance Company. Dancers of all ages will show off their outfits while performing at the University of San Diego, followed by live mariachi music. Tickets can be purchased online. 5 p.m., 5998 Alcala Park Way, San Diego, CA 92110
Old Town: Fiestas Patrias is hosted by the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. The event features Mexican celebratory traditions with crafts, a parade and Guac’ Off all while highlighting Southern Californian history. Admission is free. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA 92110
Sept. 14
Oceanside: Mission San Luis Rey parish hosts Las Fiestas Patrias Latinas, a day of food, live music and folk dances. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mission San Luis Rey Parish Front Lawn, 4070 Mission Ave., Oceanside, CA 92057
Hillcrest: Rich’s will host a queer interactive dance party themed for Mexican Independence Day. STUNTS will be hosted by Isabella and Catalina from the TV series “La Más Draga.” No cover charge from 9-10 p.m., and service industry staff receive a 20% bar discount. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., 1051 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92013
Chula Vista: San Diego County’s official celebration at the Memorial Bowl will feature traditional live entertainment, food, beverages and the “Grito,” recited by San Diego’s new Consul General, Ambassador Alicia Kerber-Palma. Free and family-friendly. 4-8 p.m., 364 Third Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910
Downtown: A cross-border gathering featuring art, film and music will be hosted at UC San Diego Park & Market and the Digital Gym Cinema. La Onda Arte Latino Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff Celebration will feature Mexican Consulate representatives, visual artists of different trades and community members from San Diego and northern Mexico. The event is free and family-friendly. Noon to 6 p.m., 1100 Market St., San Diego, CA 92101
Escondido: In honor of the holiday, the city hosts a celebration with crafts, performances, food and drinks at Grape Day Park to honor the cultures that make up Escondido. Mexican Consulate representatives will join in the festivities. Admission is free, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., 321 N. Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025
Vista: Local businesses and families will gather at the Linda Rhoades Rec Center for activities including a soccer tournament, lotería and kids play area at the city’s Fiestas Patrias. Mexican Consulate representatives will join in the festivities. Noon to 4 p.m., 600 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista, CA 92083
Sept. 15
Chicano Park: Unión del Barrio hosts El Grito de Resistencia in Chicano Park to honor the holiday with an event that blends culture and activism. 4:30-8 p.m., Chicano Park, 1949 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
Tijuana: Margarita — a Colombian singer known as “The Goddess of Cumbia” — will perform during a free concert at the city’s Grito de Independencia celebration. She will be joined by other local performers. 6 p.m., Glorieta Miguel Hidalgo in front of the Palacio Municipal, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
Updated on Sept. 14, 2025 at 09:26 a.m. with new schedule details.
