Celebrate Mexican Independence Day in Chicago: events, traditions, and more

El Grito Chicago Festival

Sept. 14 – 15, 2024
For the first time, Chicago is hosting a downtown festival celebrating Mexican Independence Day. El Grito Festival will be a vibrant two-day celebration in lakefront Grant Park on Sept. 14 and 15, featuring an exciting lineup of national and local artists across multiple genres. With live cultural performances, authentic Mexican food, an artisan market, and family-friendly activities, this festival is set to be a landmark celebration in the heart of Chicago.

Tip: It’s fast and easy to use public transportation to get to the festival! The CTA Blue, Red, Brown, Orange, Green, Pink, and Purple train lines all have stops near Grant Park.

El Grito Family Run/Walk 5K

Sept. 15, 2024
El Grito 5K is a community race that takes you along the iconic 26th Street in Little Village, known as Chicago’s second Magnificent Mile. Runners will precede the Little Village Mexican Independence Day Parade and receive a beautiful medal and t-shirt designed by talented local artists at the end of the race. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or new to running, the El Grito 5K is a fun and family-friendly way to kick off the Mexican Independence Day festivities.

Desfile anual de la Independencia Mexicana de la calle 26

Sept. 15, 2024
One of the largest parades in the Midwest, the Desfile anual de la Independencia Mexicana de la calle 26 draws over 400,000 participants and spectators to the heart of Little Village. The theme of the 53rd edition of this iconic parade is “Celebrando Nuestras Tradiciones,” which will highlight the rich diversity of Mexican cultural celebrations. From the elegance of quinceañeras to the captivating rhythms of Mexican folkloric dancing and the skillful artistry of charrería, the parade will be a kaleidoscope of experiences, highlighting the essence and diversity of the Mexican heritage in Chicago and throughout the United States. Check out the full Mexican Independence Day parade route through Little Village.

Tip: Get to Little Village by taking the Pink Line train or buses 52, 53, 60, 82 and 94.

Keep celebrating at these additional Mexican Independence Day events:

• de la Independencia de México in South Chicago (Sept. 15)
• Celebremos Mexico-Grito de Independencia Mexicana in Pilsen (Sept. 15)