Caption by Ashmar Mandou

During a crisp September morning, Chicagoans adorned in festive attire, waving Mexican flags with pride, and cheering lined up 19th Street as the City of Chicago kicked-off its first of many Mexican Independence Day celebrations with the Mexican Independence Day parade in Pilsen last Saturday. Festival goers reveled in watching antique cars drive past and folkloric dances making their down 19th Street. The iconic celebrations demonstrate the power, vibrancy, and captivating culture of the Mexican community. The next Mexican Independence Day parade will set off from the Little Village Arch at the intersection of 26th Street and Albany Avenue, along 26thy Street on Saturday, Sept. 16th. This year’s theme will be “Tu Mexico, Tu Chicago,” hosted by the Little Village Chamber of Commerce.

Photos by Tony Díaz