September 16: Holidays, Historical Events, Famous Birthdays & Zodiac Sign

About September 16

September 16 is anchored by Mexico's Cry of Dolores, the moment in 1810 when Father Miguel Hidalgo urged his congregation to rise against Spanish rule. The passionate call to arms, commemorated each year by the president reenacting the famous grito, ignited an eleven-year struggle that culminated in Mexican sovereignty. Joining the global independence celebrations on this day is Papua New Guinea, which severed its ties to Australia in 1975, and Malaysia, whose federation was formally established in 1963 by uniting Malaya, Singapore, North Borneo, and Sarawak.

Beyond declarations of nationhood, the date is marked by bold firsts. In 1620, the Mayflower set out from Plymouth, England, carrying Pilgrims toward what would become a foundational chapter of American history. Fast-forwarding four centuries, 2021 brought the launch of Inspiration4, marking the first time an entirely civilian crew orbited the Earth. Scientific milestones also resonate here: in 1987, global leaders signed the Montreal Protocol, a landmark agreement to heal the planet's ozone layer—a mission still honored today on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.

The date holds a dramatic footprint in business and culture as well. General Motors was incorporated in 1908, reshaping the American industrial landscape. In 1966, the Metropolitan Opera House opened its doors at Lincoln Center with the world premiere of Samuel Barber's Antony and Cleopatra. Meanwhile, Virgos born on this day share the date with B.B. King, whose guitar shaped the sound of the blues, and magician David Copperfield, who has made a career of bending reality—a fitting ambition for a sign known for meticulous precision.

Holidays & Observances on September 16

• Cry of Dolores, celebrates the declaration of independence of Mexico from Spain in 1810. See Fiestas Patrias
• Independence Day (Papua New Guinea), celebrates the independence of Papua New Guinea from Australia in 1975.
• International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
• Malaysian Armed Forces Day (Malaysia)
• Malaysia Day (Malaysia)
• Martyrs' Day (Libya)
• National Heroes Day (Saint Kitts and Nevis)

Fun & National Days on September 16

• Collect Rocks Day — Channel your inner geologist and grab a few interesting stones to admire nature's tiny, ancient sculptures.
• National Guacamole Day — Mash up some ripe avocados and celebrate the perfect green dip just in time for Mexican Independence Day festivities.
• Mayflower Day — Honor the brave 1620 transatlantic voyage by reading up on early American history or baking a traditional maritime hardtack.
• National Cinnamon Raisin Bread Day — Toast a thick, fragrant slice, slather it with butter, and savor the ultimate cozy autumn comfort snack.
• Anne Bradstreet Day
• Mexican Independence Day
• National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina
• National School Backpack Awareness Day
• National Stay Away from Seattle Day