Every year on the evening of September 15, Mexican communities around the world gather to celebrate the Grito de Independencia (Cry of Independence), commemorating the beginning of Mexico's fight for independence. The celebration continues into the official Mexican Independence Day on September 16, bringing together family, friends, traditional Mexican cuisine, music, and, of course, delicious Mexican drinks that make every gathering even more memorable.
Whether you're hosting a Mexican Independence Day celebration or simply looking to explore authentic Mexican flavors, this guide features 15 drinks to commemorate Mexican Independence Day. From refreshing aguas frescas to festive tequila cocktails, these recipes offer something for everyone celebrating this special occasion.
In This Guide:
- Aguas Frescas
- Palomas & Margaritas
- Micheladas & Cheladas
- Drinks Inspired by the Flavors of Mexico
- Frequently Asked Questions
15 Drinks for Mexican Independence Day (September 16)
Whether you celebrate on the evening of September 15 or throughout the day on September 16, no party is complete without unforgettable drinks. If you're looking for traditional non-alcoholic beverages, refreshing tequila cocktails, or festive aguas frescas, these Mexican drinks are perfect for sharing with family and friends during your Mexican Independence Day celebrations.
Aguas Frescas
Among the most popular traditional Mexican drinks, aguas frescas are vibrant, fruit-based beverages enjoyed throughout the country. They're commonly served alongside classic dishes like tacos, pozole, tamales, enchiladas, and tostadas, making them a favorite for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
1. Tropical Agua Fresca
Bright yuzu, pineapple, and lime come together in this refreshing Tropical Agua Fresca. Monin Yuzu Purée adds complex citrus flavor, while Monin Mint Concentrated Flavor brings a cool, refreshing note.
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2. Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca
Fresh cucumber and lime keep this Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca crisp and refreshing, while Monin Habanero Lime Syrup adds citrus flavor with a subtle kick of heat. Top it with club soda for an easy sparkling sip.
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3. Minty Mango Agua Fresca
Mango, pineapple, mint, and lime make this refreshing Minty Mango Agua Fresca a fun addition to the celebration. Monin Mango Syrup adds ripe mango flavor, while Monin Mojito Mix brings mint and lime notes to every sip.
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Palomas & Margaritas
Tequila is one of Mexico's most iconic spirits and the foundation of beloved cocktails like the paloma and margarita. From grapefruit and dragon fruit to mango and watermelon, these recipes put a flavorful twist on the classics.
4. Sunburst Paloma
The Sunburst Paloma gives the classic paloma an energizing twist with tequila, lime, grapefruit soda, and Monin Brilliance Starfruit Yellow Energy for tropical starfruit flavor. 
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5. Dragon Fruit Paloma
The Dragon Fruit Paloma combines tequila, fresh lime, grapefruit soda, and Monin Dragon Fruit Syrup for a tropical twist on this Mexican classic. It's fruity, refreshing, and easy to shake up for a celebration.
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6. Smoked Hot Honey Paloma
Sweet, spicy, and citrusy, this Smoked Hot Honey Paloma puts a bold spin on the classic grapefruit-and-tequila cocktail. Monin Hot Honey Syrup brings the sweet heat that sets it apart. 
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7. Fresh Agave Margarita
This Fresh Agave Margarita is proof that sometimes simple is best. Reposado tequila, fresh lime juice, and Monin Agave Organic Nectar come together for a classic combination of bright citrus and smooth agave sweetness. 
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8. Ruby Red Grapefruit Margarita
The Ruby Red Grapefruit Margarita gives the classic cocktail a juicy citrus twist. Tequila and orange liqueur pair with Monin Ruby Red Grapefruit Syrup and sweet & sour for a refreshing addition to your Mexican Independence Day menu. 
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9. Outrageous Mango Margarita
If you love a frozen margarita, try the Outrageous Mango Margarita made with Monin Mango Syrup, mango juice, silver tequila, and sweet & sour. It's blended for an icy, fruit-filled finish.
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10. Ripe and Juicy Watermelon Margarita
Juicy watermelon and tequila are a natural pairing in this Ripe and Juicy Watermelon Margarita. Monin Watermelon Purée brings ripe watermelon flavor, balanced by fresh lime and sweet & sour.
Save this Blood Orange Margarita to make for friends and family!
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Micheladas & Cheladas
Beer, lime, and savory or spicy flavors make micheladas and cheladas refreshing companions for tacos, grilled dishes, and other Mexican favorites. Try these Monin twists featuring cucumber, pineapple, chipotle, and mango.
11. Cucumber Lime Chelada
Cool cucumber meets crisp lager and lime in this refreshing Cucumber Lime Chelada. Monin Cucumber Syrup adds fresh cucumber flavor for an easy twist on the classic.
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12. Pineapple Chipotle Michelada
Sweet pineapple and smoky heat give this Pineapple Chipotle Michelada its bold flavor. Made with lager, fresh lime, and Monin Chipotle Pineapple Syrup, it's a delicious choice for anyone who likes a little spice in their sip. 
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13. Mango Chelada
This Mango Chelada adds a tropical, spicy twist to your beer with Monin Spicy Mango Syrup, fresh lime, silver tequila, and beer. The result balances juicy mango flavor with a lively kick of heat. 
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Drinks Inspired by the Flavors of Mexico
Tequila, mezcal, hibiscus, citrus, agave, and chile are at the heart of these final two cocktails. Each brings together familiar Mexican flavors in a creative drink made for raising a glass.
14. Flores de Mexico
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15. Cantarito de Mayo
Inspired by the beloved Mexican cantarito, the Cantarito de Mayo is a cocktail that pairs reposado tequila with grapefruit, orange, and lime. Monin Chipotle Pineapple Syrup adds pineapple flavor and smoky heat for a creative take on the citrus-forward classic. 
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular Mexican drinks?
Popular Mexican drinks include aguas frescas, horchata, agua de jamaica, palomas, margaritas, micheladas, cheladas, and cantaritos. Mexico also has a rich tradition of spirits, including tequila and mezcal, which are used in many classic and contemporary cocktails.
What is the Grito de Independencia?
The Grito de Independencia, or Cry of Independence, is commemorated on the evening of September 15, when Mexico's president reenacts the historic call associated with the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence. Celebrations continue into September 16, Mexico's official Independence Day, with gatherings, food, music, and festivities.
What drinks are served for Mexican Independence Day?
Mexican Independence Day celebrations may include aguas frescas and other non-alcoholic drinks as well as cocktails made with tequila or mezcal. Palomas, margaritas, cantaritos, micheladas, and cheladas are all great options for a festive drink menu, while aguas frescas offer refreshing alcohol-free choices.
What are traditional non-alcoholic Mexican drinks?
Aguas frescas are among Mexico's best-known non-alcoholic drinks. Popular varieties include agua de jamaica made with hibiscus, horchata commonly made with rice and cinnamon, and fruit-based aguas frescas featuring flavors such as watermelon, pineapple, mango, or cucumber and lime.
What are popular Mexican alcoholic drinks?
Popular Mexican alcoholic drinks include palomas, margaritas, cantaritos, micheladas, and cheladas, along with cocktails featuring tequila or mezcal. The paloma traditionally pairs tequila with grapefruit and lime, while cantaritos combine tequila with refreshing citrus flavors.
What's the difference between a michelada and a chelada?
Both are refreshing Mexican beer drinks, but a chelada is typically the simpler of the two, combining beer with lime and salt. Micheladas generally add more savory and spicy ingredients, which can include chile, sauces, seasonings, or tomato-based mixers depending on the recipe and regional style.
What is an agua fresca?
Agua fresca translates to "fresh water" and refers to a refreshing Mexican beverage traditionally made by combining water with fruit, flowers, seeds, grains, herbs, or other flavorful ingredients. Popular varieties include jamaica, horchata, tamarindo, and fruit-based aguas frescas, and they're commonly served chilled over ice. Check out more agua fresca recipes and find your new favorite drink to make at home.
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