September 16 delivers an incredible lineup of global milestones, rich cultural traditions, and beloved culinary favorites. From historic cries for freedom to the ultimate avocado-based celebration, today is packed with ways to honor heritage and flavor.
Mexican Independence Day (DΓa de la Independencia) commemorates the historic Grito de Dolores of 1810, when Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang church bells in Dolores, Mexico, calling for an end to Spanish colonial rule. This pivotal moment sparked the eleven-year war that ultimately won Mexico its independence. Communities around the world celebrate with vibrant parades, traditional music, and festive displays of green, white, and red.
π Fun fact: The historic bell rung by Hidalgo in 1810, known as the Campana de Dolores, is rung every year by the President of Mexico on the night of September 15 to reenact the famous cry.
Ways to celebrate:
- Attend a local parade or Mexican Independence Day celebration near you
- Cook a traditional dish like mole poblano or pozole
- Decorate your space in green, white, and red for the day
National Guacamole Day honors the creamy, nutrient-packed dish rooted in ancient Aztec traditions. Made from mashed avocados, lime juice, cilantro, onions, and chiles, guacamole is a timeless culinary staple enjoyed worldwide, and a natural pairing for today's other celebration.
π Fun fact: The word "guacamole" comes from the Aztec Nahuatl word "ahuacamolli," which translates roughly to "avocado sauce."
Ways to celebrate:
- Make a fresh batch with ripe avocados, lime, and cilantro
- Try a regional variation, some add pomegranate seeds or a touch of bacon
- Serve it up alongside tonight's Mexican Independence Day spread
π¬ A toast to Mexican heritage or a chip loaded with fresh guacamole, how are you marking the day?
From a historic cry for freedom to a bowl of fresh guacamole, September 16 has plenty to celebrate.
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September 16 FAQ
What is the Grito de Dolores?
It's the historic 1810 cry for independence made by Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, marking the start of Mexico's eleven-year war for independence from Spain.
Why is Mexican Independence Day celebrated on September 16?
September 16 marks the anniversary of the Grito de Dolores, the moment considered the start of Mexico's fight for independence, even though full independence wasn't achieved until 1821.
What is guacamole traditionally made of?
Traditional guacamole is made from mashed avocados, lime juice, cilantro, onions, and chiles, a recipe with roots in ancient Aztec cuisine.
What if today is my birthday?
Lucky you, scroll down to the birthday box below for your Virgo traits, birthstone, and birth flower.
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September 16 Other Celebrations
International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer marks the anniversary of the Montreal Protocol's signing in 1987, a landmark global agreement to phase out substances that deplete the Earth's ozone layer.
National Collect Rocks Day is a fun, curious observance encouraging geology enthusiasts and casual hobbyists alike to head outdoors in search of unique stones, minerals, and fossils.
Mayflower Day remembers the historic 1620 departure of the Mayflower from Plymouth, England, carrying the Pilgrims on their journey toward a new life in North America.
π If Your Birthday Is Today
Born on September 16? The numerology of the number 16 reduces to 7, a number tied to introspection, analysis, and a natural pull toward deeper truths. Paired with Virgo's practical, detail-oriented streak, you get someone who doesn't just work hard, but thinks hard, always looking one layer past the surface.
Your birthstone is sapphire, long associated with wisdom, loyalty, and clear communication. Your birth flowers are the aster, a star shaped bloom symbolizing wisdom and purity, and the morning glory, which stands for affection and a fresh start each morning it opens.
Looking for a gift that fits all three symbols at once? Sapphire blue jewelry or decor nods to the birthstone, the zodiac sign, and the deep blue purple tones asters and morning glories share in the garden. If you're drawn to crystal healing traditions, Virgo is also associated with a different set of stones, citrine, lapis lazuli, tiger's eye, garnet, green aventurine, and carnelian, each believed to support different aspects of the sign's energy. You can also get the 6 stones Virgo Crystals Gift Set.















