What Is "Dias De La Bandera"?

The Mexican flag is full of historical significance and meaning.

"Dias de la Bandera" means "Flag Day" in Spanish and is a national Mexican holiday celebrated every year. Mexico's flag has three colors: green, white and red, going vertically across the flag. A coat of arms adorns the center of the flag which signifies Mexican independence.

The Beginnings

Dias De la Bandera was established by Mexican President General Lázaro Cárdenas in 1937. Mexico has a had a total of eight flags since 1821; the flag the country celebrates today was officially adopted on Sept. 16, 1968. Architect Francisco Eppens Helguera designed the flag's coat of arms.

Significance

Flag Day is celebrated on Feb. 24 to mark Mexico's independence from Spain. Mexico became an independent country on Feb.24 1821, when the "Plan de Iguala" (Plan of the Three Guarantees) was signed following Mexico's victory in the War of Independence.

Celebrations

People celebrate flag day by singing the national anthem and saluting the flag. Special radio and TV programs are broadcast to explain the meaning of the flag.

References

• CRW Flags: Mexico Day of the Bandera Nacional
• Facts About Mexico: Mexican People
• Which Day: Events and Celebrations Flag Day 2010