In photos: The spirit of Mexican independence comes alive in Vienna

In Vienna's Mexikoplatz, the spirit of Mexican Independence Day came alive for a small but proud Mexican community on September 12. Roughly 2,500 Mexicans reside in Austria, with the Mexican Embassy in Vienna coordinating the celebration alongside the Mexico-Austria Association. Traditional dancers, food stands, a cumbia band, and a Grito de Independencia performed by Ambassador José Antonio Zabalgoitia Trejo marked the event.

While the atmosphere was small-scale compared to Mexico City's grand celebrations, the roughly 500 attendees cheered with equal fervor. Despite the historical irony of Austria backing a Mexican emperor, Mexico's Independence Day was celebrated with joy, as cumbia bands played and the elderly and children danced arm-in-arm. The event contrasted with the often-boozed Cinco de Mayo activities in the U.S., emphasizing the unique cultural connection between Mexico and Austria.