It’s been a turbulent year in Mexican politics, and with the anniversary of the Iguala Massacre just ten days away, many people may not feel particularly joyous on this Independence Day. But even though it’s been a tough year, there are still reasons to celebrate. As Octavio Paz once pointed out in his essay El laberinto de la Soledad, it must mean something that a country as troubled as Mexico has so many epically fun parties. Parties are a space where el Mexicano can let loose; an unbridled release of our desires and feelings; a chance to let the mask drop and be real.
And if you don’t feel like partying, here are some other ways you can show your pride this Independence Day.
LIsten to our Mexican IndepenDANCE playlist
25 songs we’re totally gonna jam to until the sun comes up, or at least until our favorite Mexican cantina sends us to bed.
Brush up on artist Eduardo Salles' 60 Mexican emoji
Check out our breakdown here.
Get to know these 11 up-and-coming Mexican film directors
These are the directors on the rise, diversifying what we know Mexican cinema to be. Read more here.
Watch these Mexican YouTube legends
We rounded up some of the best viral YouTube stars out of Mexico. Watch them here.
Get familiar with Mexico's groundbreaking history of baseball integration
Read our feature The Secret History Of How Mexico Pushed Baseball Toward Racial Integration.
Support Chef Rocio Camacho
Rocio Camacho’s legendary San Fernando Valley restaurant featured traditional Mexican mole that would make the gods weep – but an arsonist set the restaurant on fire last month and destroyed it. Learn more about how you can help her get back on her feet here.
Remember the times Jorge Ramos has been ride or die for Latinos
Ramos’ recent run-in with Trump wasn’t the first time he demanded answers on immigration issues. Check out our post for 5 Times Jorge Ramos Didn’t Take Anyone’s Shit.
Bump the New Unreleased Selena Track
Last week, the Quintanilla family released audio of “Oh No (I’ll Never Fall in Love Again),” a song Selena never professionally recorded and never before heard by the public. Listen here.
Rock a Varsity Jacket From Tony Delfino
A collective of D.F.-based graphic designers, visual artists, and graffiteros, Tony Delfino makes high quality, detailed, limited edition pieces that includes t-shirts, button downs, hoodies, leather jackets, and sneakers. The entire line is deeply inspired by the culture of Mexico’s capital, and is made with all-Mexican materials. For several years now its been the brand of choice for the D.F. fresh to death set. Learn more here.
Get Your Netflix On
Read our Netflixeando guide: 15 Mexican Films You Should Stream On Netflix.