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As any Mexican school child can tell you, Dia de la Independencia tells the moving story of a patriot movement led by Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in a fight against decades of brutal class prejudice — and for a free and independent Mexico.

Although the day is officially marked on September 16th, the celebration actually begins the night before, on September 15th, with cries of "Viva Mexico!" shouted in cities and town squares across the country as evening skies are illuminated with spectacular fireworks displays.

The following afternoon, schools are closed and parades are the order of the day with a grand military display in Mexico City. Meanwhile, it's party time in celebration of the day that independence was finally declared on September 16, 1821.

Around the Web, go on a virtual tour of history, modern observances, and lively and colorful party ideas for celebrating the ideals of freedom on Mexico Independence Day ...

More about Mexican Indpendence Day around the Web:

Throw a Fiesta for Mexican Independence Day - Feature article from MSNBC with party tips and lots of recipes ...

El Grito de Independencia - Inside Mexico gives a brief version of the history of Independence Day and then takes you on a virtual tour to experience the celebration repeated every year in every village and city of Mexico to mark September 16th.

El Grito de Dolores - A balanced version of the story of .Padre Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla and the events of September 16th, 1810 give a realistic, but still patriotic overview of the forces that brought about Independence from Spain.

Mexican Independence - Mexican Independence with a Texas twang...on this site of the sons of DeWitt Colony Texas. Most Americans don't realize that when Mexico fought for freedom from Spain, Texas was part of Mexico!

Mexican Independence Day - September 16 - Along with the general information on Hidalgo, this site presents a selection of Latin-made movies that your can rent to see the Mexican version of stories such as the Alamo and the Mexican American experience.

Mexican Independence Day E-cards - Send a greeting card to celebrate Mexican Independence Day with a nice selection of cards to celebrate freedom.

also see -> Mexico Tourist Attractions | Tijuana Tourist Attractions

Cinco de Mayo | Day of the Dead