Wednesday, September 14 – 5pm
Celebrating over 200 years of Mexican Independence, Viva Mexico will take place Wednesday, September 14 from 5 until 7:30 p.m. in and around four museums in Balboa Park.
A festival of the food, drink, music, art and dance of Mexico, Viva Mexico is sponsored by Balboa Park neighbors The San Diego Museum of Man, Mingei International Museum, The San Diego Museum of Art and Timken Museum of Art, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico, San Diego, The Prado Restaurant, and XEWT-TV.
The exuberant music of roaming mariachis, the grace and energy of colorful folkloric dancers and the flavors of Mexican cuisine will enthrall attendees’ senses while exhibitions and programs at the museums will engage their imaginations. The Prado Restaurant will offer a different Mexican delicacy at each museum, which will be paired with its complementary beverage – tantalizing Mexican wine or refreshing beer. The museums will stay open until 7:30 p.m. for visitors to enjoy.
Tickets for Viva Mexico are $15 in advance and $20 on the day of the event. Children 6 & under free. Tickets on sale at http://vivamexico2011.eventbrite.com, www.museumofman.org or www.mingei.org/vivamexico
Celebrate Fiestas Patrias at Old Town State Park
Experience a Traditional Mexican Independence Celebration
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is hosting Mexican Independence Day with traditional activities from the 1800s when San Diego was still part of Mexico—including lively dancing, music, food and drink. This free festival commemorates one of the most important days in Mexico’s history — independence from Spain in 1810. The event is Saturday, Sept. 17, from noon to 4 p.m.
The cannon firing salute kicks off the historical activities including the “Changing of the Flag” ceremony, an “El Grito” contest, parade, games, crafts and more.
Attendees can march in the short parade around the plaza along with horses, dancers, and people in historical costumes. The parade is scheduled to follow the “Changing of the Flag” ceremony at noon.
Following the parade, there will be games, contests and demonstrations that represent the activities enjoyed by the early settlers of San Diego. Park guests can relax and picnic in the grassy area in front of the stage that will be filled with free entertainment such as historical dancing and music.
This celebration is an independence celebration like no other in Alta and Baja California. The event is sponsored by Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Boosters of Old Town and Fiesta de Reyes.