Food, flags, fun and fireworks: what better way to celebrate Mexican Independence Day?

Every September, citizens of Mexico pay tribute to Father Miguel Hidalgo’s famous speech that called for the end of Spanish rule in 1810, and the parties and celebrations that take place are a must to behold and experience. The long weekend showcases Mexican culture with parades, folkloric dancing, mariachi music, delicious food and more. But, where should you celebrate? Not to worry. We’ll help you figure that out so you can make the most of your stay:

Cancun: Take it to the streets

In Cancun, Mexican Independence Day begins around midnight on Sept. 15 on Tulum Avenue. Locals gather for the Grito de Dolores — the call of independence — music, dancing and revelry. If you’re already out on the town, don’t worry: the speech is shown on all the screens in the nightclubs.

You can re-energize yourself for the day ahead with a dazzling fireworks display, and join in the revelry on Boulevard Kukulcan. You’ll admire folkloric dancers wearing white terno garments, hand-embroidered with explosions of vibrant flowers. You’ll find color and sparkle on every corner and person in the area.

The fiesta continues at Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort, with a mariachi band, horse show, rope player and folklore show at Chill Pool followed by a live DJ at Sunan, the resort’s high-energy, all-day lounge.

Playa del Carmen: Caribbean color

Take to the streets of Playa del Carmen with fellow revelers. Parque Los Fundadores is bound to be packed since the fireworks here are known as some of the best in the country.

For a vibrant Mexican Independence Day pool party head to Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort where you’ll find Mexican games, mariachi music and more during the day. As night falls, the resort resets the mood for another party at the Central Garden featuring folk shows, Mexican contests and more mariachi music. Your day concludes in the lobby with the rhythms of a live DJ.

Looking for something on the quieter side? Stay in the heart of the action at The Yucatan Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resort, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. On most Thursday nights, artists set up easels on Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue). Watch them work and purchase original paintings and drawings to take home. Celebrations of Independence Day will certainly include traditional Mexican arts and crafts, so be sure to visit Ambarte, a small shop located off Fifth Avenue, to commemorate your trip with amber jewelry or stunning regional handcrafts.

Puerto Vallarta: A swirl of color

Puerto Vallarta is situated alongside Banderas Bay and festivities begin here on el Dia del Charro — the Day of the Cowboy. Admire dashing charros — Mexican cowboys — as they march through town in their finest and celebrate with games, competitions and socializing.

Venture down the coastline to Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort for an all-day celebration of Mexican culture, including a taco festival and guacamole class, live music, Mexican toy workshop, tequila tasting, Mexican art and more.

For a taste of history head to the annual military parade (a tradition since the late 19th century) that celebrates Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule. Bring your camera to the famous Malecon boardwalk and snap a picture of the Vallarta Dancers, a life-size sculpture featuring a couple in traditional Mexican dress.

No matter where you choose to celebrate, one thing is certain: The options are seemingly endless when it comes to finding a spot to enjoy Independence Day in Mexico. Best of all, the visions of joy and merriment among friends and family members, and the warmth of the Mexican people will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Laura Burkehart is an editor and writer who loves travel as much as she loves writing about it. She splits her time between North Carolina and Northern California.