West Chicago to celebrate Mexican Independence Day

West Chicago will celebrate history, culture and pageantry this weekend as part of its annual Mexican Independence Day Parade and Celebration.

Held rain or shine, the celebration runs noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, and will bring the nationally recognized Mexican folklore dance troupe Ballet Folklrico Quetzalcoatl to downtown for a free performance at 2 p.m.

The group, founded in 1983 and directed by Juan Manuel "Nery" Cruz, features roughly 110 dancers ranging in age from 4 to 50. The group has placed in many national competitions. The music-and-dance troupe will present a traditional Mexican folkloric performance, with the choreography and costuming drawn from the rich and vibrant heritage and customs of Mexico.

Before the entertainment, a parade steps off at noon and will travel down Main Street into downtown.

At 1:30 p.m. on the Main Stage on Galena Street, Mayor Ruben Pineda will be joined by a representative of the Mexican Consulate to commemorate Mexico's independence from Spain in 1810 by a re-enactment of El Grito, or "The Cry" (of Independence).

In addition, the West Chicago City Museum will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. with a special exhibit on Mexico's history and the immigrants who have traveled here. Free children's arts and crafts activities will be offered from noon to 4 p.m. at Gallery 200, 200 Main St.

For a complete schedule of events, visit the city's website at westchicago.org.