Sheinbaum Makes History with First Female “Grito de Independencia” as Mexico Celebrates 215th Anniversary

Mexico City, Sept. 16, 2025- President Claudia Sheinbaum delivered the traditional Grito de Independencia from the National Palace balcony last night, becoming the first woman to reenact Father Hidalgo’s cry ahead of today’s nationwide military parades and festivities.

Nut Graf Sheinbaum’s historic proclamation underscores both Mexico’s enduring patriotism and its evolving social landscape. Her voice joined hundreds of thousands in the Zócalo as the country honored the 1810 uprising that sparked independence from Spain.

Historic Balcony Ceremony

  • In a ceremony broadcast live at 11 p.m., Sheinbaum rang Hidalgo’s original bell and called out the names of independence heroes before shouting “¡Viva México!” three times.
  • Dressed in a traditional embroidered huipil, she received the national flag from a military escort and waved it over a jubilant crowd.
  • Thousands of spectators braved a light evening drizzle to cheer beneath the illuminated façade of the National Palace.

Military Parade and Civic Observances

  • At 10 a.m. today, the Armed Forces marched down Paseo de la Reforma, featuring more than 5,000 troops, armored vehicles, and historic regiments.
  • Air Force flyovers in red, white and green tricolors passed over the Ángel de la Independencia memorial.
  • State capitals and consulates worldwide held parallel celebrations, with governors, mayors and diplomats reenacting the Grito.

Popular Festivities and Cultural Events

  • Folk dance troupes performed regional bailes folklóricos in city plazas.
  • Fireworks lit the skies over major urban centers, accompanied by mariachi concerts and street fairs.
  • Family gatherings and communal feasts continued into the night with traditional dishes such as chiles en nogada and pozole.

Looking Ahead As Mexico reflects on the legacy of Father Hidalgo’s call to arms, this year’s celebrations highlight both the nation’s proud heritage and its strides toward greater gender inclusion at the highest levels of government.