2026 Chicago Mexican Independence Day celebrations | Festivals, parades, road closures
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 Mexican Independence Day celebrations in Chicago this weekend.
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The city will celebrate Mexican Independence Day beginning Friday, Sept. 11, and continuing through the official holiday on Wednesday, Sept. 16.
On Tuesday, Mayor Brandon Johnson and city leaders shared safety plans for the weekend celebrations.
City leaders said public transportation is strongly recommended, and residents should plan ahead.
Downtown Traffic Plan
Jackson will be closed from Columbus to DuSable Lake Shore Drive for El Grito Chicago Festival.
OEMC said that closures could implemented if police need to begin enforcement.
If closures are implemented, access will be limited to residents, employees, deliveries and emergency services. Those attending downtown events or reservations will be asked to provide proof of reservation.
OEMC said that if police need to implement downtown closures to limit traffic, the following locations will serve as access points:
El Grito Chicago
El Grito Chicago festival kicks will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Grant Park's Butler Field.
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Jackson will be closed from Columbus to DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
2026 El Grito 5K Family Run/Walk
The annual El Grito 5K in Little Village will take place on Sunday at 9 .m. It starts 26th Street and Kostner to Kedzie Avenue. It will end at Manual Perez, Jr. Plaza.
26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade
The annual parade in Little Village will be from noon to 3 p.m. kicking off at the historic Little Village Arch located on 26th street and Albany Avenue.
Annual Mexican Independence Day Parade
The parade in South Chicago steps off at 1 p.m. and will head south along Commercial Avenue from 87th Street to 100th St. and disband at 101st St to 103rd Street.
Other events happening this weekend include Chicago Football Classic at Soldier Field and Chicago Fire v. New England Revolution at Soldier Field.
