September 16th, Mexican Independence Day AND My Birthday

September 16th, or Diez y Seis de Septiembre, is a true Mexican holiday. Independence Day actually. It celebrates the beginning of the overthrow of the Spanish government in Mexico. On the morning of September 16, 1810 in the city of Dolores in the Mexican state of Guanajuato, Father Miguel Hidalgo summoned his followers and called upon his people to seek independence from the oppressive Spanish rulers. Father Hidalgo and other leaders of the revolution were captured and beheaded within a year, but with the persistance of the dedicated, in 10 years Mexico had won their Independence from Spain. It started with a shout of 'Mexicanos, Viva Mexico!' which is remembered on this day.
Frequently to be found along the parade route, the Malecon, were vendors of various flavors. This man had Mexican flags, while others had Mexican ornaments, doo-dads, and stuffed figures, others were selling hats. But the most popular were the vendors selling fresh fruit and other Mexican foodstuffs all meant to entice the hungry appetites!

There were many military groups being represented in the parade. I don't know what official group these senoritas were involved in but they were quite a precision team when it came to marching.

There was a strong military presence at the parade. This presence could be witnessed along the parade route, both as part of the parade, but also always on guard along the parade route. Even a few police dogs were involved and of course they held the lion's share of my interest. There was a number of flyovers, also, of military planes and helicopters. They put on quite a show.

After all the military groups and bands had passed we at last came to the more colorful part of the parade. There were lovely senoritas in colorful costumes as well as many handsome horses being held in check by dashing caballeros! Gorgeous!

And what's a celebration without some good 'eats'? I started with this vendor for a delicious cup of fresh fruit including papaya, oranges, coconut, pineapple, cantaloupe, watermellon, and even cucumber! This was followed by an exquisito hotdog with the works, iced fruit punch and later a double scoop of chocolate ice cream!!

This young lady was still good to go but I had had enough fun for one day. The temperature was just short of 100 and the humidity made for a heat index of about 110 degrees. I went back to Argo for a good nap!

All in all, it surely was good of Mexico to help me celebrate my birthday with such a terrific parade! Viva Mexico!