Several free events celebrating Mexican Independence Day will take place across San Diego County on Tuesday, Sept. 15, and Wednesday, Sept. 16, giving residents additional opportunities to enjoy Mexican music, traditions and cultural activities.

 

On Tuesday, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, will host “El Grito: Banda La Reina” from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Lyric Court. Admission is free.

 

The program will include the traditional El Grito de Independencia ceremony, followed by performances from Banda La Reina de SD, Los Cadetes de Santiago Avilez and LuMaya.

 

Another option on Tuesday will be Otay Ranch Town Center, which will host activities as part of Hispanic Heritage Month, including live Latin music from 4 to 7 p.m. The event is also free.

 

Meanwhile, the Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego held its Mexican Independence Day ceremony over the weekend at The Old Globe in Balboa Park.

 

The ceremony was led by Mexican Consul General Alicia Kerber and featured cultural performances, including mariachi music and folkloric dance.

 

On Wednesday, Sept. 16, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park will host its Fiestas Patrias celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

The free, family-friendly event will feature live music, folkloric dancing, traditional crafts, living history demonstrations and a parade with participants dressed in period attire.

 

The celebration will take place at 4002 Wallace St. in San Diego.