HARLINGEN — The city of Harlingen held its annual “Diez y Seis de Septiembre” event in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month last night at Harlingen Municipal Auditorium.
In remembrance of Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spanish rule, the civic event is one of many internationally that are reminiscent of the historical, patriotic festivals held with music and dancing.
Harlingen’s “Diez y Seis de Septiembre” event provides an opportunity for the community to experience the same with an annual ceremony rich in Hispanic heritage and tradition.
The free, binational event, “El Grito de Dolores Civic Event,” signifies the “Shout for Independence.” El Grito is reminiscent of the moment in which Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costillas, a parish priest in the village of Dolores, Hidalgo, rang the bell of the parish on the early morning of Sept. 16, 1810. It was a call for Mexicans to rise against the Spanish Crown in a fight for Independence.
“This event commemorates the 206th anniversary of Mexico’s birth as an Independent Nation,” Event Volunteer Connie Salas said. “The City of Harlingen recognizes the importance of our binational relationship and bicultural heritage with Mexico.”
There will be performances by Mariachi Mariposas, Mission Parks and Recreation Folklorico and Grupo Folklorico Ozomatli.
