Independence Day or Cinco de Mayo? Learn & Celebrate with Marival Resorts

May 08, 2025 Category: Events

For many, Mexican Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo often get mixed up, especially outside of Mexico. While both are significant in Mexican history, they celebrate entirely different events. Mexican Independence Day is the nation’s biggest patriotic celebration, marking the beginning of the fight for independence from Spain. In contrast, Cinco de Mayo commemorates a specific battle—one that has become more associated with Mexican-American pride than an actual independence celebration. Let’s take a closer look at these key events in Mexican history and the traditions they inspire.  

Cinco de Mayo: The Battle of Puebla

Cinco de Mayo, celebrated every May 5th, is not Mexico's Independence Day, as many mistakenly believe. This patriotic Mexican holiday commemorates the 1862 Battle of Puebla, where a small Mexican force, against overwhelming odds, defeated the French army. Led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, this unlikely victory became a symbol of resistance and national pride. 

Though it’s not a federal holiday in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo has grown into an important celebration, particularly in the United States, where it’s embraced as a day to honor Mexican customs and traditions. In Mexico, especially in Puebla, this day is marked with military parades, reenactments, and festive gatherings. The real essence of Cinco de Mayo lies in the pride and unity felt by the Mexican people when they stood against foreign invasion.

Mexican Independence Day: Grito de Dolores

In contrast, Mexican Independence Day, celebrated on September 15 and 16, is one of the biggest celebrations in Mexico and marks the start of the Mexican War of Independence against Spain. The movement began in 1810 when Miguel Hidalgo, a Catholic priest, issued the famous Grito de Dolores, calling the people to rise up against Spanish rule. This pivotal moment in Mexican history ignited a war that would eventually free Mexico from colonial domination. 

Mexican Independence Day is the nation’s biggest and most important holiday, filled with vibrant celebrations, parades, fireworks, and reenactments of Hidalgo’s historic call to arms. In cities and towns across Mexico, festivities often begin the night of September 15, when local leaders reenact the Grito, and the streets come alive with excitement. With Mexican Independence Day approaching, there's no better place to celebrate than Marival Resorts, nestled in the picturesque Riviera Nayarit. Here, you can experience the warmth of Mexico’s rich culture and history while enjoying a memorable vacation experience.

Mexican Fiestas: Get ready for a true cultural immersion as each of our resorts hosts lively Mexican fiestas. These celebrations will include authentic Mexican cuisine, live mariachi performances, traditional Mexican games, and other surprises. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience Mexico’s customs up close while enjoying the comfort and luxury of our resorts. 

Chiles en Nogada Festival: Throughout September, all Marival Resorts will offer guests a taste of one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes: Chiles en Nogada. This exquisite dish, featuring poblano chiles stuffed with a mixture of meat, dried fruit, and spices, is topped with a creamy walnut sauce, pomegranate seeds, and parsley, symbolizing the green, white, and red of the Mexican flag. As part of our all-inclusive experience, this seasonal dish will be available at select on-site restaurants.

Experience the Heart of Mexican Culture at Marival Resorts

Join us this September for an unforgettable celebration of Mexican Independence Day at Marival Resorts. Whether you’re interested in savoring traditional Mexican dishes, enjoying live music, or simply immersing yourself in Mexican culture, our all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Nayarit offer the perfect setting for a vibrant, meaningful vacation in Mexico. Book your stay and experience the best of Mexican history, culture, and hospitality!