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September 16, 2026 Holiday:

Mexican Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day is a vibrant celebration that commemorates the country's liberation from Spanish rule. This festive holiday is marked by grand parades, lively music, and traditional dances, such as the Jarabe Tapatio. Families and friends gather to share delicious traditional dishes, like pozole and chiles en nogada, and to toast with a glass of aguas frescas. The night sky is illuminated by fireworks and twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere that fills the hearts of Mexicans with pride and joy.

Learn more about Mexican Independence Day
Holidays on September 16, 2026:

National Guacamole Day

National Guacamole Day, September 16, 2026: Unite with friends and family over a delicious, creamy dip. more >>

World Play-Doh Day

World Play-Doh Day, 9/16/2026: Unleash your creativity and relive childhood memories with this fun celebration of imagination and self-expression. more >>

Working Parents Day

Working Parents Day, 9/16/2026, acknowledges the hard work and dedication of parents balancing work and family responsibilities, promoting gratitude and support for those shaping the next generation. more >>

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, September 16, 2026: Learn how to protect our planet's ozone layer and ensure a healthier future. more >>

Mayflower Day

Mayflower Day, 9/16/2026: Uncover the mystery behind this lesser-known holiday and discover its significance. more >>

Trail of Tears Commemoration Day

Trail of Tears Commemoration Day, 9/16/2026, honors the forced relocation of thousands of Native Americans, remembering the pain and loss of their ancestral lands. more >>

National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina

National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina, 9/16/2026: Honoring lives lost, reflecting on tragedy, and paying tribute to victims and families. more >>

Stepfamily Day

Stepfamily Day, 9/16/2026: A heartwarming celebration honoring blended families' love, efforts, and dedication to creating a supportive environment. more >>

National Collect Rocks Day

National Collect Rocks Day, 9/16/2026: Explore nature, collect unique rocks, and discover hidden treasures. more >>
Birthdays on September 16:

Lauren Bacall

Died in 2014, aged 89

Iconic actress and sultry-voiced siren, known for her captivating film noir performances and timeless Hollywood glamour.

Amy Poehler

54 Years Old

A talented comedian, actress, and producer who created and starred in the hit TV show Parks and Recreation, known for her witty humor and lovable characters.

David Copperfield

69 Years Old

A world-renowned illusionist and entertainer, known for his death-defying escapes, magic shows, and television specials that have mesmerized audiences worldwide. He has made magic ...

Peter Falk

Died in 2011, aged 83

A talented actor who brought iconic characters to life, including the lovable detective Columbo, with his unique blend of wit and charm.

Marc Anthony

57 Years Old

A renowned singer-songwriter, actor, and producer, known for his soulful voice, catchy Latin-infused pop hits, and high-profile relationships. He's a household name in the music in...

Richard Marx

62 Years Old

A talented artist behind numerous chart-topping hits, crafting romantic ballads and catchy pop-rock anthems that dominated the 80s and 90s airwaves.

B.B. King

Died in 2015, aged 89

A legendary blues musician renowned for his soulful voice, masterful guitar playing, and iconic hits like "The Thrill Is Gone." He's the embodiment of blues music, inspiring countl...

Elgin Baylor

91 Years Old

A Hall of Fame basketball player and coach who dominated the court with his athleticism and innovative playing style, known for his impressive scoring and rebounding abilities.

Henry Louis Gates Jr.

75 Years Old

A renowned scholar and journalist who has extensively researched and written about African American history and culture, and is known for his groundbreaking documentaries and liter...

Alexis Bledel

44 Years Old

Star of The Handmaid's Tale and Gilmore Girls, known for her iconic TV roles and Emmy-winning performances.

Julia Donaldson

77 Years Old

A renowned children's author and playwright, best known for creating imaginative and engaging stories, such as "The Gruffalo" and "Room on the Broom", that have captivated young re...

Nick Jonas

33 Years Old

A talented musician and member of the popular boy band the Jonas Brothers, known for catchy pop-rock hits and heartfelt ballads.

Events from History on September 16:
216 years ago
Father Hidalgo sparks Mexico's fight for independence (Dolores, Guanajuato, Mexico) 1810
In the small town of Dolores, a passionate cry for freedom echoed through the streets as Father Miguel Hidalgo, a charismatic priest and leader, rallied the masses to take a stand against Spanish rule. With his iconic Grito de Dolores, he ignited a flame of rebellion that would burn for years to come, inspiring a nation to fight for its independence. As the flames of revolution spread, Hidalgo's words became a beacon of hope, mobilizing the Mexican people to rise up against their oppressors and forge a new path towards self-governance.
406 years ago
Pilgrims set sail for Virginia on the Mayflower (Plymouth, England, UK) 1620
A brave band of English Separatists, later dubbed the Pilgrims, stood at the edge of the unknown, their eyes fixed on the horizon as they prepared to embark on a perilous journey across the Atlantic. With a dream of establishing a new life in Virginia, they boarded the Mayflower, a sturdy vessel, and bade farewell to the comforts of Plymouth, England. Led by the resolute William Bradford and driven by their quest for religious freedom, these intrepid travelers faced the raging seas, treacherous storms, and the daunting prospect of starting anew in a vast, uncharted land.
81 years ago
Japanese occupation of Hong Kong ends (Hong Kong) 1945
Hong Kong, a city once torn apart by war, was finally free! The Japanese occupation, which lasted for three years and eight months, came to an end on September 16, 1945. The Japanese forces formally surrendered, marking a new beginning for the people of Hong Kong. With the war finally over, the city could start rebuilding and recovering from the devastating effects of the occupation. The people of Hong Kong could once again live without fear of oppression, and the city could look forward to a brighter future.
39 years ago
Global agreement reached to protect ozone layer (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) 1987
On September 16, 1987, the world came together to make history! The Montreal Protocol, an international treaty, was signed by 24 countries, marking a significant milestone in the fight against ozone depletion. This landmark agreement aimed to phase out harmful substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were destroying the Earth's protective ozone layer. The treaty paved the way for a united global effort to address this critical environmental issue, paving the way for a safer, healthier planet.
51 years ago
Papua New Guinea gains independence from Australia (Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, -9.44345, 147.1966, 121, Papua New Guinea) 1975
The drums of freedom beat louder in the Pacific as Papua New Guinea, a land of rugged mountains, steamy jungles, and vibrant tribes, finally broke free from Australia's colonial shackles. After decades of foreign rule, the country's diverse people, with their rich cultural heritage, eagerly welcomed the dawn of a new era. With the signing of the Papua New Guinea Independence Agreement in 1975, the nation's first prime minister, Michael Somare, proudly hoisted the new flag, symbolizing the birth of a sovereign state.
56 years ago
King Hussein declares war on PLO in Jordan (Amman, Jordan, 31.9456, 35.9333, 11110, Jordan) 1970
King Hussein's tanks rolled into Amman, Jordan's capital, as he declared war on the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), marking the start of a brutal conflict that would come to be known as Black September. The PLO, led by Yasser Arafat, had been operating in Jordan, and Hussein saw them as a threat to his rule. The Jordanian army, backed by the US and Israel, clashed with PLO fighters in a series of intense battles, resulting in thousands of deaths and the expulsion of the PLO from Jordan.
Notable Deaths on September 16:
2002James Gregory Iconic actor known for his captivating performances
2008Norman Whitfield Melodic American songwriter and producer extraordinaire
2021Jane Powell Classic American actress, beloved for her performances on screen
2003Sheb Wooley Legendary musician and songwriter with a unique voice
1977Maria Callas Greek opera singer renowned for her powerful voice and iconic performances
1607 Mary Queen of Scots, a Scottish and English royal
2007Robert Jordan Pioneering American engineer, author, and storyteller
1984Richard Brautigan American author who blended styles to create a unique voice in his writing, exploring themes of love, social justice, and counterculture.
2009Mary Travers Beloved singer-songwriter celebrated for her harmonious voice
1977Marc Bolan Iconic rock musician who electrified audiences with his innovative sound
1992Millicent Fenwick Czech conductor who led orchestras around the world, known for his interpretations of classical music and his contributions to the development of opera.
1996Gene Nelson American actor, dancer, and director who worked in film, television, and theater, remembered for his innovative choreography and charismatic stage presence.
2016Carlo Azeglio Ciampi Innovative Italian economist and statesman who led Italy to a brighter future
1973Víctor Jara Talented songwriter and storyteller who inspired his Chilean country
1932Millicent Lilian "Peg" Entwistle British actress and stage performer
2013Patsy Swayze Danced her way into the hearts of many as a charismatic American choreographer
2016Edward Albee Visionary American playwright and director who reimagined the world through his work
2011Willie "Big Eyes" Smith Eccentric American singer-songwriter, harmonica virtuoso, and drummer extraordinaire
1996McGeorge Bundy Note: McGeorge Bundy died on September 9, 1996, not September 16
1945John McCormack Respected artist and performer, renowned for his powerful vocal ability