featured, From the Archives, Mexican Culture

September – Mexico’s “Patriotic Month”

by Irene

In Mexico, September is “el mes de la patria” (“Patriotic month”, or “month of our homeland”).

It begins with the “State of the Nation” report by the president on September first, established as an annual event in 1917. Next is September 13, reserved for the remembrance of a group of young Mexican cadets who fought against the American invasion in 1847.  Finally, the month of September witnessed both the beginning and the conclusion of the Mexican War of Independence; the fight began with a call for freedom (“El Grito”), on September 15, 1810 at midnight; a little over eleven years later, on September 27, 1821, the triumphant arrival in Mexico City of the “Army of the Three Guarantees” (Independence, Religion and Unity) marked the birth of Mexico as an independent entity.

To celebrate in true Mexican tradition, September features a collection of seasonal food, from the finest cuisine to the popular antojitos (little cravings); and beverages, anything from aguas frescas (refreshing flavoured water) to some specialties that will make you more than tipsy and will, no doubt, require something spicy and comforting “para la cruda” (to treat the hangover).  In my next few posts, I will be sharing stories and recipes to honour, remember and celebrate Mexico’s mes de la patria.

Featured photo: A scene from the Independence Day Parade in Mexico City, by Luis Kousuke Arita (my father), September 16, 1971.

16 thoughts on “September – Mexico’s “Patriotic Month””

    1. Thank you, Eilene! It is always great to get your feedback. Ah, and I hope you still have a few Poblano peppers; tomorrow I am posting the recipe for stuffed peppers in walnut sauce with pomegranate, the classic dish to eat in Mexico in September.

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    1. Hi, Judy! I currently live in Southern Ontario, where I have been for over twenty years. The closest grito for me would probably be in Leamington, ON; there is a Mexican consulate there, but I am going to stay home and vicariously experience it through the accounts of friends and fellow bloggers. I visit your blog regularly, and I hope you will be posting about tonight’s event in your town!

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