Oklahoma City welcomed the start of Hispanic Heritage Month on Tuesday with its first outdoor “El Grito” ceremony, held at Plaza Calle Dos Cinco on the city’s south side. The event, organized by the Mexican Consulate, marks a shift from the consulate’s indoor venue to a public plaza, allowing more residents to join the historic celebration.
Historical roots and local significance
“El Grito” commemorates the 1810 call to rebellion made by Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo, who rang a church bell to urge Mexicans to rise against Spanish rule. In Mexico City the tradition takes place each year in the Zócalo, and similar reenactments are held across the United States. Oklahoma City’s version aims to honor that heritage while highlighting the contributions of Mexican‑American families to the community.
Consulate leader emphasizes cultural enrichment
Edurne Pineda, president of the Mexican Consulate, said, “Let’s remember that sharing our culture only enriches and strengthens us. We want everybody from within the Mexican‑American community to be able to celebrate this tradition so we can all feel proud of our culture shared with our new generations and share it with our friends in Oklahoma City from all over the cultural and diverse spectrum within the city.”
Family‑friendly festivities
The celebration offers free entertainment for all ages. Attendees can enjoy a Mexican‑American student choir, live mariachi music, folkloric dances, and a dedicated children’s area featuring games, Lotería and other activities. The program begins at 6 p.m., followed by a civic ceremony from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the same plaza.
Community response
Local residents expressed excitement about the outdoor setting, noting that it makes the event more accessible to families who might not have visited the consulate’s previous indoor location. “It’s wonderful to see our city celebrate this heritage openly,” said Maria Torres, a longtime Oklahoma City resident. “Events like this bring neighbors together and teach our kids about the rich history that shapes our community.”
Looking ahead
The “El Grito” ceremony kicks off a month‑long series of cultural activities, concerts and educational programs planned by the consulate and local partners. Organizers hope the outdoor format will become a permanent fixture, reinforcing Oklahoma City’s commitment to celebrating the diverse cultures that enrich the region.
For more information about upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month events, visit the Mexican Consulate’s website or follow their social media channels.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
