?? MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE FESTIVAL 2026 ??El Grito de Independencia
Hosted by:
Lake County Cultural Association NFP
and
ON THE ROCKS
Event Hosts:
Habacuc “Cuca” Lopez
Mario A. Contreras
? Saturday, September 12, 2026
? 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
? ON THE ROCKS
175 S Harbor Pl, Waukegan, IL 60085
Gold Sponsor:
American Place Casino
Join us for a beautiful outdoor celebration of Mexico’s independence, culture, history, music, dance, and community pride.
Bring your family and friends to enjoy a full day of cultural performances, live entertainment, traditional music, dancing, classic cars, food, and a special El Grito de Independencia Ceremony.
Featuring:
DJ Paco / DJ Paco Jr.
Danza Azteca Quetzalcoatl
Ballet Folklórico México en la Piel
Ballet Folklórico Herandi
Ballet Folklórico Tayahua
Chinelos
Mariachi Nuevo México
Grupo DesControl
Sonora Santanera
Classic Cars
?? El Grito Ceremony
Ceremony led by the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago.
Including a special performance of the American National Anthem by the daughter of Miguel Arellano.
Cultural Recognition Ceremony
Honoring individuals who help preserve and share Mexican culture, traditions, music, and dance in our community.
Free Admission / Entrada Gratis
Thank you to our Collaborating / Supporting Partners for helping make this cultural celebration possible.
?? ¡Que Viva la Independencia!
?? ¡Que Viva Nuestra Cultura!
?? ¡Que Viva México!
Event venue
On The Rocks, 175 N Harbor Pl.,Waukegan, Illinois, United States
Tickets
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.