Mexican Independence Day

We drove about 15 miles South to the town of Empalme and met our friend Hector who took us to his town's celebration. In 1810 Mexico gained their independence from Spain. We started out at his family's home meeting all his relatives and then proceeded to the fiesta in the town square. There were about 3,000 people and we were definitely the only 'Americans'. Everywhere we turned Hector was running into another one of his cousins. A very family oriented event with little girls dressed up in traditional attire. At 11 pm the Mayor took the stage, the national anthem was played (the people place their right hand palm down over their hearts), made a speech, and then made several statements that began with 'Viva' like Viva Empalme, Viva Mexico, Viva Mexicanas, and the crowd shouts back after each one of these with 'VIVA!'. Fireworks were set off and the structure that was lit was located right in the middle of the crowd. A few misfired sending large sparks into the crowd. One of Hector's cousins was the Queen and she then took the stage and was presented with her crown - a sombrero.

We went back to Hectors family's home and ate homemade tamales, refried beans, and chicharones in a green sauce that was made into tacos.

On the drive home at 1:00 am we passed many people and cars still in the streets and a few raging parties.

The celebration continues today with a parade in Guaymas and more parties tonight. I think we are up for it. VIVA MEXICO!

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