Celebrating the Grito de Dolores

At GoGirlfriend, we rarely turn down a chance to celebrate - especially if it involves great food. You might think we've been dipping into the tequila - because we all know Cinco de Mayo happens in May - but rest assured, we're sane and sober.

Grito de DoloresOn September 16th, 1810, a priest in the small town of Dolores, Guanajuato, rang the church bell and yelled Grito de Dolores, a call for the people of Mexico to rise up against the Spanish Crown. It was the beginning of Mexico's Independence, which would take until 1821 to achieve.

The largest Independence Day celebrations take place in Mexico City's Zocalo (city square) with mass decorations of red, white and green lights and flags. If you're like us and love Mexican food, it's time to give thanks. Grito de Dolores (as it's known now) is commemorated in many communities around the world. We've hunted down some fun places to visit to help you celebrate.

Mexican Independence Day celebrations

Mexican Independence London for Less ~ In celebration of Mexican Independence Day (16th September), Giraffe restaurants will be marking "Grito de Dolores" with a fabulous 2-4-1 deal for Huevos Rancheros for breakfast, tequila and lime chicken breast for dinner.

Lights. Vegas. Action. ~ From Mexican restaurants to cool bars and nightclubs, Vegas venues are offering food and drink specials and entertainment to celebrate what's bound to be one spicy weekend in Vegas.

South Florida Food Trucks ~ Celebrating Mexican Independence Day with mariachis, Mexican wrestlers, margaritas & a burrito eating contest. It all starts at 5PM on Saturday September 15^th.

Binny's in Illinois ~ Grupo Modelo is throwin' a bar crawl, and the Binny's South Loop Tasting Room is stop numero uno. Join them at this free event for Modelo and Victoria on tap, great food and maybe some free prizes, too.

Gastown, British Columbia ~ Every year on the 15th of September La Casita Gastown has a massive party and this year there is no different. Come and have fun with us! No cover.

celebration of Mexican Independence dayFor celebrations close to you, Google "Mexican Independence Day celebration + your location" and hopefully you'll have a few to choose from - or enjoy consecutively. If there's nothing close by, hold your own Grito de Dolores in your backyard. AllRecipes.com has hundreds of recipes to help you spice up your salsa. A trip to the dollar store will get you some red, white and green decorations and even a pinata.

Lastly, and most importantly, grab the tequila and lime and you're good to go.

Do you celebrate events like Grito de Dolores like St Patrick's day? Where's the furthest you've traveled from home to get your party on? Follow us on Twitter and Facebook and let's start talking!