How Mexicans Truly Celebrate Fiestas Patrias: Why Dual Citizenship Brings You Closer

When people outside of Mexico think about “Mexican Independence Day,” they often picture sombreros, mariachi, tequila shots, and even Cinco de Mayo. But the reality is much deeper, much prouder, and more meaningful. Every September, Mexicans celebrate Fiestas Patrias, a tradition that honors the start of Mexico’s independence in 1810 and unites the entire country, yes, even those who don’t celebrate anything. 

For Mexican-Americans, these celebrations aren’t just about fireworks and food, they are a living connection to heritage. And through dual citizenship, reconnecting with these traditions becomes even more powerful.

The Real Celebration: Fiestas Patrias in Mexico

The Night of El Grito

On the night of September 15th, millions of Mexicans gather in plazas, homes, and town squares to relive the cry for freedom, El Grito de Dolores, first shouted by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. In Mexico City, the President rings the original bell from the National Palace and leads the nation in shouting:

¡Viva México! ¡Vivan los héroes de la independencia!

But this isn’t only a Mexico City tradition. Across every state, town, and neighborhood, governors and mayors hold their own Grito, and families watch from home or join the crowds in the plaza. Yes, people gather in the plaza with Mexico’s flag, speech from the leader of the region, governor, and even the president in the case of the capital. In CDMX for example, it’s usually celebrated in “El Zocalo” and the current administration can gather around 100.000 citizens during this celebration, where firework shows, and patriotism are the main characters. In 2025, Mexico’s first female president did the honor of raising the Mexican flag,and celebrating El Grito de Independencia accompanied by thousands in El Zocalo. A historic moment that symbolizes the nation’s path towards greater equality, representation, and unity, marking a new chapter in Mexico’s democratic and cultural history.

The Food and Family Gatherings

If there’s one thing Mexicans do best, it’s turning history into celebration. Families prepare pozole, chiles en nogada, tostadas, elotes, aguas frescas, and desserts in the colors of the flag. For many, it feels like Mexico’s version of Thanksgiving meets 4th of July, a time for unity, family, and remembering who we are.

Music, Fireworks, and Dance

Mariachi serenades, traditional dances like the jarabe tapatío, every celebration you can imagine are included. The entire country vibrates with joy, the vibes are just different during the Fiestas Patrias. Fireworks light up plazas decorated in green, white, and red, while patriotic songs like México Lindo y Querido are the ones chosen to commemorate the country's independence during the day.

September 16th: The Parade

The following morning, Mexico City hosts a spectacular military parade that showcases the Armed Forces, cavalry, and aerial shows. Families across the nation tune in, reflecting on both pride and gratitude for their country.

What This Means for Mexican-Americans

For many Mexican-Americans, Fiestas Patrias are a reminder of home, even if they were born and raised in the U.S. Watching the Grito online, cooking family recipes, or joining community events can feel like a bridge across borders.

But there’s an even deeper way to connect: through dual citizenship.

The Benefits of Becoming a Dual Citizen

Dual citizenship between Mexico and the U.S. offers more than just legal convenience. It is both a practical tool and a way to preserve cultural identity.

1. Stronger Cultural Connection
   With Mexican citizenship, you can fully participate in civic and cultural life, vote in Mexican elections, obtain your Mexican passport, and feel legally and emotionally tied to the country of your family’s roots.

2. Travel and Mobility
   A Mexican passport gives you easier access across Latin America and even parts of Europe. No more relying only on your U.S. passport.

3. Property and Investment Rights
   As a Mexican citizen, you can legally own property near beaches and borders (something foreigners cannot do without special permits). Perfect for those dreaming of a retirement home or vacation spot in Mexico.

4. Education and Health Benefits
   Mexican citizens enjoy access to public education and healthcare systems, huge advantages if you ever plan to spend extended time in Mexico. This way you don’t need to spend on travel insurance.

5. Stronger Family Ties
   If you plan to pass on citizenship to your children, dual nationality ensures that future generations keep their connection to Mexico alive.

How Doble Nacionalidad Express Makes It Simple

Applying for Mexican citizenship can be complicated; documents must match perfectly, errors in birth certificates need corrections, and apostilles and translations are required. For many families, this process can feel overwhelming. In other cases, they have already tried to do it at the consulate, and their case got rejected due to missing documents or spelling mistakes in names or dates. 

That’s where Doble Nacionalidad Express (DNExpress) comes in:

• Free digital document review before you even submit originals.

• Handling of both “perfect” and “non-perfect” cases (name mismatches, missing records, digitization of Mexican parent certificates).

• Full management of apostille, translation, and Certificate of Nonexistence certificate processes.

• Transparent timelines: most cases are resolved in 5–6 weeks.

• A trusted team that treats your heritage with care and respect.

With DNExpress, you don’t just get paperwork done, you gain peace of mind that your path to dual citizenship is secure and handled by experts. After the case review, we can guarantee the outcome of your dual citizenship process. Remember, you can book a free consultation 

Why This Matters During Fiestas Patrias

For Mexican-Americans, watching the Grito from afar or joining small community celebrations in the U.S. can feel meaningful, but being recognized as a Mexican citizen opens an entirely new level of belonging.

Imagine standing in the Zócalo during Fiestas Patrias, waving both your U.S. and Mexican passports, and knowing you are officially part of both nations. Dual citizenship turns cultural pride into lived identity.

Fiestas Patrias are more than fireworks and food, they are a reminder of Mexico’s fight for independence and its vibrant culture that continues to unite generations. For Mexican-Americans, obtaining dual citizenship is a way to honor that history, strengthen family roots, and pass on identity to future generations.

At Doble Nacionalidad Express, we believe heritage should never feel out of reach. Whether your case is simple or requires extra steps, we handle everything so you can focus on celebrating what truly matters: being proudly Mexican.

¡Viva México! ¡Viva la doble nacionalidad!