Celebrate Mexican Independence Day 2025 in Chicago

Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, often referred to as the “Mexico of the Midwest”, is a hub for the city’s vibrant Mexican culture, from vibrant parades to delicious authentic dining experiences and more throughout the year. Mexican Independence Day is a particularly special time in Little Village and across the city.

Public transit is the best and most convenient way to get around the city during Mexican Independence Day weekend. Avoid traffic and street closures by taking the bus or train to parades and events.

Here are a few things you can do to join in the Mexican Independence Day celebrations this year in Chicago.

Chicago events for Mexican Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day Parade in Little Village; photo by Manuel V Photography

26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade

Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025
One of the largest parades in the Midwest, the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade draws over thousands of participants and spectators to the heart of Little Village. The theme of the 54th edition of this iconic parade is “Pride and Power: Our Strength, Our Legacy,” honoring the resilience, contributions, and cultural richness of the community. From the captivating rhythms of Mexican folkloric dancing to the skillful artistry of charrería, the parade will be a kaleidoscope of experiences, highlighting the essence and diversity of the Mexican heritage in Chicago and throughout the United States.

@choosechicago The 56th Annual 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade kicks off this Sunday! 🇲🇽 The parade is a celebration of Mexican Independence Day (9/16), and occurs on the first day of Hispanic Heritage Month (9/15-10/15). From quinceañeras and Mexican folkloric dancing to the artistry of charrería, the parade will highlight the vibrant diversity of Mexican heritage in Chicago and the U.S. 📅 Sunday, 9/15, starting at noon 📍 26th Street and Albany Avenue, heading west down 26th Street to Kostner Avenue 🎥: @Chido Chicago #ChicagoStyleSummer ♬ original sound – Choose Chicago

Tip: Get to Little Village by taking the Pink Line train or buses 52, 53, 60, 82 and 94.

Keep celebrating at these additional Mexican Independence Day events:

Mexican Independence Day Parade in South Chicago (Sunday, Sept. 14)

More ways to celebrate Mexican Independence Day

National Museum of Mexican Art
Located in the heart of Pilsen, the free National Museum of Mexican Art honors the Mexican community with an array of art exhibitions that beautifully capture the richness, diversity, and history of Mexican and Mexican American culture. A visit to the museum is a perfect way to deepen our understanding of our shared history this Mexican Independence Day.

The Butterfly House at Navy Pier
Monarch butterflies hold a special place in the heart of the Mexican community, symbolizing resilience, transformation, and a deep connection between people and nature. As you celebrate Mexican Independence Day, consider connecting with nature by admiring monarch butterflies and hundreds of others from all over the world at The Butterfly House at Navy Pier.

The Pilsen Mural Tour
The Pilsen Mural Tour is a resident-led walk through some of the neighborhoods’ most iconic pieces of public art. The tours travel through 50 years of murals colorfully expressing the history, struggles, and culture of the Mexican community in Pilsen.

Mexican dining experiences

Chicago’s diverse culinary scene offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine. Explore everything from traditional Mexican dishes to creative interpretations that put a modern twist on classic flavors.

5 Rabanitos in Pilsen
La Chaparrita in Little Village
La Josie in West Loop
Mi Tierra in Little Village
Mi Tocaya Antojeria in Logan Square
Osito’s Tap in Little Village
Tacotlan in Hermosa

Local Mexican businesses

When it comes to finding unique accessories and clothing, there’s nothing like supporting local and family-owned businesses. As you plan your outfit for the Mexican Independence Parade and other festivities, consider stopping by some locally owned shops to discover one-of-a-kind finds.