Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with La Fiesta de Elgin Sept. 13
The city of Elgin will celebrate Mexican Independence Day with La Fiesta de Elgin on Saturday, Sept. 13, featuring a full day of festivities, including a new parade, live music, a vendor market, art installations, food vendors and fireworks.
The parade starts at 9 a.m. at Slade and Douglas avenues and ends at Douglas and Highland avenues, near city hall. Vehicle and float staging is at the old Sherman lot, 901 Center St. Vehicles or floats only—no walkers.
Free parking is available throughout downtown Elgin, though attendees should expect temporary street closures and plan accordingly.
More parking and road closure information can be found at elginil.gov.
The celebration continues with El Mercado from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. along Riverside Drive, showcasing a lively market of Latino-owned businesses, food vendors, live music, a car show, and family-friendly activities.
From 5 to 11 p.m., Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave., transforms into a vibrant nighttime festival. Highlights include:
• The Angel of Independence
• Family activities like the Illuminate Elgin light board and a piñata smash
• Authentic Mexican cuisine, micheladas and paletas
• Live performances by Banda Los Sebastianes, Los Yaguarú, Estilo Al Norte, Sonora Dinamita and DJ Eddy P
The night will culminate with El Grito — the traditional call for independence — followed by a spectacular fireworks show and the festival headliner’s performance.
Food vendors interested in participating can visit the event vendor page, elginil.gov/2608/Vendors, to apply.
La Fiesta de Elgin is a free event for all ages. Come ready to celebrate culture, community and Mexican independence in one unforgettable day.
For the latest updates on La Fiesta de Elgin, visit the event page, elginil.gov/2525/La-Fiesta-de-Elgin.