Mexico: Independence Day celebrations in Mexico City September 15-16

Event

Heightened security measures and associated disruptions to transportation and business services should be anticipated on Tuesday, September 15, and Wednesday, September 16, due to Independence Day celebrations in Mexico City. The festivities will take place in the city's Historic Center, with the main events at the Zocalo on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. Amid the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, a suspension on public gatherings remains in place. Events have been organized without audiences and will be broadcasted to the public.

Authorities will suspend numerous activities enforcing all businesses in the immediate vicinity of the Zocalo to close through 14:00 (local time) on Wednesday. The Zocalo, Allende, and Bellas Artes metro stations will also be closed during the festivities. Officials will enforce road closures in the following areas around the Zocalo:

• The areas from calles Palma to Correo Mayor and from calles Venustiano Carranza to Donceles will be closed to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic. All shops in these areas will be closed.
• The area from calles Simon Bolivar to Jesus Maria and from Calles Belisario Dominguez to Republica de Uruguay will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
• The area from Circunvalacion to Eje Central and from Jose Maria Izazaga to Heroes de Granadita will be closed to all vehicular traffic.

Additional Independence Day celebrations are likely to be held in urban centers across the country.

Context

Mexico is celebrating its 210th year of independence from Spain.

Advice

Individuals in Mexico, particularly in Mexico City, are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate increased travel times due to high traffic and increased security measures, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Be alert and report any suspicious objects or behavior to local authorities.