Wednesday, September 16, 2009 12:05 PM
Rob Kinnon
Mexican Independence Day in Playa del Carmen
Mexico is a proud country. Even here in Playa del Carmen, a diverse, young city with a melange of residents, from all walks of life and from all over Mexico, on this day they are all one. At 11:00 pm a cacophony of sound and noise is magically orchestrated into one single voice, a voice shouting "Viva Mexico"! And so it was last night as our family stood amongst the crowds in the Municipal Plaza, done up smartly in red, white and green lights,
the perfect dramatic backdrop for el Presidente to make his speech and
stir the spectators.Thousands and thousands of people turned out for the annual address from the President of Solidaridad, Roman Quian Alcocer and "El Grito", the traditional war cry of independence signifying Mexico's freedom from Spanish Colonial authorities. Everywhere we looked there were balloons, flags and colorful costumes. Truly this is the fiesta of all fiestas and an exciting experience to take part in.

Viva Mexico! Viva Mexico! Viva Mexico!

(Poor Aunt Jill) Lifting the kids to get a better view. We got more than a few second looks and a few "thumbs up" as my kids know both the state and national anthem by heart!
How much do you love the sombero de sandia??
Of course, what would any Independence Day be without fireworks?!


A traditional band was playing but at this late hour we didn't have the energy to push through the throng for a better view.

Off to the vendors...personally, my favorite part of any community festival.

Fried yum yums of all sorts.

Our gardener, Edgar, and his pals living it up. They will sleep well tomorrow and my new lawn will go un-watered.

The churro extruder and hot oil set up. Yummm.

The best seats in the house.

Fanciful blown glass animals.

El artist.

Taco meat of all types.



Happy but tired, Cole with agua de sandia and churros.

After a last minute, late night stop at Mayte's place, it was off to bed for all of us after a wonderful family night on the town. I can only imagine what next year will bring as we celebrate Mexico's bicentennial!!
I've taken a few videos which I will post as soon as I can get them up on YouTube, but let's not hold our breath on this one, ok?