As time slipped into September, the entire nation of Mexico was already immersed in a frenzy of celebration.
For Mexicans, Independence Day carries a significance far beyond other holidays.
It marks the beginning of their liberation from colonial shackles, the declaration of national independence, a pride and passion etched in their bones and blood.
In Mexico City, this celebration reached its peak.
The streets, from Paseo de la Reforma to Constitution Plaza, were already flooded with green, white, and red national flags.
Huge flags hung down the facades of skyscrapers, and strings of small triangular flags rustled in the breeze, linking every lamp post.
The storefront windows facing the street were meticulously decorated with patriotic themes, and the supermarkets were filled with special Independence Day merchandise.
