Every September, nine Latin American countries remember how they became independent. Each country celebrates in its own way.
Mexico begins with Father Miguel Hidalgo's famous "Grito de Dolores" in 1810. Every year on the night of September 15, the President rings a bell and shouts, "¡Viva México!" Crowds enjoy parades, music, fireworks, and the special dish chiles en nogada.
Chile started its path to freedom in 1810. The "Dieciocho" parties can last a week. One unique rule is that people must hang the Chilean flag on September 18–19. On the 19th, there is a huge Military Parade led by the President. There are rodeos, fondas (fair-like parties), food, and music.
Guatemala declared independence with its neighbors in 1821. A special tradition is the antorcha (torch) run on September 14. Runners light torches in Guatemala City and carry them to their towns. People enjoy tamales, kak'ik (a turkey soup with spices), chuchitos (small tamales), shucos, pepián, and fireworks.
Honduras also became independent in 1821. Families watch parades with music and dancing. People eat plato típico (beef, beans, cabbage, plantains, cream, tortillas). For a quick snack, many grab a baleada (a folded tortilla with beans, cheese, and sour cream).
El Salvador gained independence in 1821. Cities hold colorful parades with student bands, floats, and dancers, often ending in big stadiums or arenas. Many people wear traditional clothes, eat pupusas, and enjoy fireworks at night.
Nicaragua's celebration is the longest. Events run from September 1 to 15. The Guatemalan torch arrives on September 11 and travels over 240 miles with more than 8,000 carriers. On September 14, more than 100 schools and 15,000 students parade in the capital. Festivals across the country peak on the 15th.
Costa Rica marks independence on September 15 too. On the 14th at 6 p.m., radio stations play the national anthem, and children parade with faroles (handmade lanterns) to honor the history of independence messengers. The next day brings parades, traditional dress, and foods like casados, empanadas, and tamales.
Brazil separated from Portugal on September 7, 1822. The day features large military parades, especially on the Ministries Esplanade in Brasília, with the President present. Schools across the country also hold their own parades.
Belize is the newest country on this list—independent from the UK on September 21, 1981. The month starts with St. George's Caye Day on September 10. People wear national colors, picnic, and dance. On the 21st, parades and a bright Carnival fill the streets, and performers compete for King and Queen of Carnival.
Together, these celebrations show the same pride in freedom—but each country's style is different: Mexico's midnight "Grito," Chile's mandatory flags and giant parade, Guatemala's torch run, Honduras's parade foods and baleadas, El Salvador's stadium finales, Nicaragua's long calendar and student events, Costa Rica's lantern parades at 6 p.m., Brazil's national military show, and Belize's Carnival finish.