Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Grito de Dolores!

"Cry of Dolores!" was the battle cry of the Mexican War of Independence back on September 16, 1810 by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Roman Catholic priest from Dolores, near Guanajuato in Mexico.

Tuesday marked the 198th year of Mexico's celebration of Independence from Spain, and the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. I live in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago, and also lived in Pilsen a few years back. The celebrations in these Hispanic neighborhoods were lively and fun, and despite the incessant rain this past weekend, the annual parade marched on in La Villita.

Looking for a way to get involved and celebrate? Events will be going on this month, and a great place to get a taste of the Mexican culture would be in Pilsen, on 18th street between Halsted St. and Wood St. The Pilsen East Art Gallery at 2003 S. Halsted is also holding its 38th Annual Artists' Open House from September 26th through September 28th. The Opening Night Event is Friday 6-10 p.m., and the Open Houses are also on Saturday and Sunday from 12-7 p.m.

Viva la Mexico!

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