CHICAGO – In one of Chicago’s largest Mexican-American communities, hundreds of thousands of people lined 26th Street in Little Village to watch the 53rd annual Mexican Independence Day Parade.
“Born and raised in Little Village, so I’ve been here all my life. I’ve been loving it every year, every time,” Catalino Guzman said.
The parade served as an early celebration of Mexico’s independence from Spain on Sept. 16, 1810. It was looked at as an opportunity for young first time paradegoers to learn about this historical moment.
“I’ve never been to a Mexican parade. I never been. My mom always wanted me to know more about my culture,” said 6-year-old Mariana Marie Miron.
Sunday also marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month.
“It’s Mexican Independence Day, but I love seeing other people’s cultures like the flags. There’s a lot of like Venezuelans here now, Honduras people…we’re all Latinos, so we all got to share love,” Guzman said.
Many expressed their Mexican pride, waving flags and donning traditional outfits. The parade included folkloric dancers, festive horses, mariachi bands, and dozens of vibrant floats with WGN among them.
“I love how everybody expresses their culture and isn’t afraid to express where they’re from abd it’s a good vibe,” Miley Linares said.
It’s a cherished tradition that Chicagoans with Mexican heritage deeply value.
“Events like these definitely help feel more immerse in the culture. It’s so nice to see everyone representing,” Nathalia Oraha said.
Festivities will continue in Grant Park where the El Grito Festival is being held. The Mexican Consulate will also be holding a special ceremony there to ring in Mexican Independence Day.