Today was Mexico’s Independence Day, actually the eve of the Independence Day. I was excited to cover the event, but the weather was pretty horrible to work in, with a near steady rain or downpour most of the evening. Still, the crowds were unbelievable, and in the center, I was packed in the midst of a huge crowd of people all awaiting the “grito” or shout from Guadalajara’s political leaders. At 11 p.m. the announcer yells ” Viva” before listing the name of every independence fighter from the early 1800s, and the crowd answers, “VIVA”.
Avenida de 16 de Septiembre was closed to traffic, which made a wonderful spot to walk with families. Everyone was in a great mood, some more drunk than others. I don’t know what I expected or why I was surprised that the crowd was that big, since I had been forewarned, but it was less-than-ideal shooting conditions since I was stuck in one spot the whole time, switching back and forth between photographing the people around me, and the fireworks overhead, all the while recording audio.
We made it back to the apartment, completely soaked, and exhausted. Unfortunately the large crowd and flu-symptoms were rough on Missy, but she was a block away to hear and watch the excitement from the square. I think had the weather been more pleasant we could have enjoyed the festivities more, and we were sad to have missed a little Fulbright gathering in Guanajuato that we opted out on, but hopefully we’ll get together with friends from Fulbright soon enough.
the audio is fabulous – what an amazing crowd. viva!!