Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, often referred to as the “Mexico of the Midwest”, is a hub for the city’s vibrant Mexican culture, with colorful shopping, authentic dining experiences, and lively celebrations throughout the year. Mexican Independence Day is a particularly special time in Little Village and across the city.
When you’re exploring the city during Mexican Independence Day weekend, keep in mind that public transit is the easiest and most convenient way to avoid traffic and potential street closures due to parade routes.
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
El Grito Chicago
Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026
Celebrate the spirit and culture of Mexico in the heart of downtown Chicago during El Grito. The outdoor festival in lakefront Grant Park features music from local and international artists, authentic Mexican food, a mercadito of artisans, a special kid-friendly area, fireworks, and more throughout the weekend.
Tickets are on sale now, starting at just $15. Public transit is the best way to get to the festivities; plan your route on the bus or train.
26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade
Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026
One of the largest parades in the Midwest, the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade draws thousands of participants and spectators to the heart of Little Village. The theme of the 55th edition is “United We Ride, Stronger Than Ever,” celebrating unity and pride in the bond that has carried this community forward. From Mexican folkloric dancing to lively mariachi bands, the parade will highlight the essence and diversity of Mexican heritage in Chicago and throughout the United States.
Tip: Get to Little Village by taking the Pink Line train or buses 52, 53, 60, 82 and 94.
@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
Keep celebrating at these additional Mexican Independence Day events:
- Mexican Independence Day: Art & Dance at Morgan Park (Tuesday, Sept. 8)
- Mexican Independence Day Parade in South Chicago (Sunday, Sept. 13)
- Mexayuno advocacy breakfast at the Chicago Cultural Center (Wednesday, Sept. 18)
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. Don’t miss their latest exhibit, “Images of Faith 3000 Years of Spiritual Expression”.
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
- Bueno Days in Little Village
- 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
Find more Hispanic-owned restaurants in Chicago.
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.
- Mestiza Shop in Pilsen
- Artesanías Elenas in Little Village
- Discount Mall in Little Village
- El Mestizo in Pilsen
- Colores Mexicanos on the Chicago Riverwalk
- Dulcelandia Candy Stores in Little Village
- Semillas Plant Studio in Pilsen
