The Cry of Dolores (Grito de Dolores) is observed in Mexico every September 15 to commemorate the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence against Spain in 1810. This event originated when Roman Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla delivered a call to arms from the church chapel in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato. The celebration begins at approximately 11 PM, when the President of Mexico rings the bell of the National Palace in Mexico City and repeats a patriotic shout that echoes the original cry, including the names of Mexican heroes. Following this, the bell is rung again, and the Mexican flag is waved to the applause of the crowd, culminating in the playing and singing of the national anthem. The Cry of Dolores serves as a prelude to the major Independence Day celebrations that occur on September 16. It is an important civic holiday for Mexicans, marking their national pride and historical struggle for independence.