| | |  News Around the Republic of Mexico 
Mexico Celebrates Bicentennial and Centennial Together in 2010
 Capt. Pat Rains - The Log
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September 24, 2010
| | First Flag — During Mexico’s Independence Bicentennial celebrations, the first flag of the colonial movement that fought for the independence of New Spain was on display. Similar to the United States’ Fourth of July holiday, Mexico is celebrated the anniversary of its independence Sept. 16. (mexicoboating.com) | |
Mexico’s celebration of its Independence Bicentennial — marking 200 years of independence from Spain — culminated Sept. 16, with bicentennial fireworks and festivities nationwide. Following that, the nation’s Revolution Centennial celebrations began.
In June, dozens of tall ships from Spain and the Americas sailed into Veracruz Harbor to start the maritime portion of the Independence Bicentennial celebrations. Throughout the country, cultural events and historical re-enactments are being hosted by hundreds of cities and ports where the colonies of New Spain revolted against European royal rule and launched their own war of independence.
For a concise history (in English) of Mexico’s two struggles — gaining independence from Spain and embarking on a revolution to form a democratic republic — check out the website english.bicentenario.gob.mx. It also provides calendars of local events and the overall Ruta 2010 — the series of routes along Mexico’s highways and ports where major events in the nation’s history unfolded.
Boaters visiting Mexico are surrounded by its rich and colorful history, and watching some of these portrayals and re-enactments can bring the past to life. Participating in some of the cultural events planned for the Bicentennial and Centennial can be both fun and educational.
For example, did you ever wonder what’s behind the names of ports such as Puerto Vallarta or Puerto Madero? Who were these guys?
Do you know which peace accord resulted in the name La Paz for the Baja California Sur resort port? Why is the shout or La Grita that’s given on Sept. 16 different from the one on New Year’s Eve?
Check out the website for these and more answers.
The Bicentennial and Centennial celebration — lumped together under the banner of “Mexico 2010” — was designed to entertain and educate everyone, including international visitors, children and locals. Activities include everything from ethnic cooking classes and food fairs, to classes in subjects as diverse as classic tile painting, bullfighting and salsa dancing. There are also free lectures and concerts in fine arts halls and museums. Every plaza will have its own Independencia events open to the public, with food, music, dancing and educational exhibits.
The rest of 2010 will be packed with events commemorating the Mexican Revolution of 1910.
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