More than 400K participate in 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade in Little Village

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The crowds were still out in Little Village on Saturday afternoon, even after the Chicago Mexican Independence Day Parade along 26th Street wrapped up.

"We are proud. We feel united. It's the one day a year, so we feel like we all come together," said Letizia Gutierrez.

Over 400,000 people participated in the parade on Saturday to celebrate Mexico's freedom from Spain.

It included bright-colored floats, mariachi bands and dancing.

"It's incredible. It's exciting to see all these people celebrate their roots, their culture," said Gail Selleg. "There's so much energy, and you just see the pride on people's faces."

The diversity and vibrant culture of Mexico's people rang throughout Little Village.

"It feels exciting, because I get to show my culture," said Julayne Arradondo.

Saturday is a celebration of traditions and heritage, organizers said.

"We could all just come together and celebrate one day," said Betzi Ramirez.

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Kicking off from the historic Little Village Arch, the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade is considered one of the largest parades in the Midwest.

Alejandra Alonso came with her daughters, husband and cousins to revel in the fun.

"It's because of traditions. The traditions of just being able to remember where our parents came from, the struggles they went through, and that they were hard workers. We are hard workers, and we are a part of something bigger," Alonso said. "The bands, the music, the dancing."

Congressman Jesus "Chuy" Garcia walked in the parade as he has done for decades.

"It's incomparable. This is the most exciting Mexican Independence Day parade in the country," Garcia said. "This is the second-largest concentration of Mexicans in the U.S. The vitality of the neighborhood is evident. Everyone is just full of celebration."

Mayor Brandon Johnson also joined in on the fun.

"This is an incredible moment, celebrating the independence of Mexico and celebrating the incredible contributions from Mexican Americans not just here in Chicago, but across the globe," Johnson said.

Organizers said this was the first year that the parade was held on Mexican Independence Day.

"I was born in Mexico, but raised in Chicago. It means a lot to me, because it's a tradition, right?" said Perla Perez.

And, while celebrations will continue on Saturday, the city's office of emergency management is asking people to celebrate safely.

More information about the 26th Street parade can be found on the organization's website.