A parade and multiple events in Sears Park will highlight the celebration of 16 de Septiembre, Mexico’s Independence Day, in observance of Hispanic Heritage Month.

The events actually will be held on Friday, Sept. 15, beginning with the 6 p.m. parade at St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church, 2525 Westview St. Lineup for the parade begins at 5:30 p.m.

The parade will make its way along Ambler Avenue to Sears Park, were Ballet Folklorico de Alvaro Munoz will perform and other events will be held.

The evening will include give-aways from various businesses and informational handouts from nonprofits. The Abilene Woman’s Club Foundation will hand out apples and oranges, and the Grace Museum will sponsor face painting for the children. Volunteers with the Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District will distribute leaflets about diabetis and other conditions.

Diez y Seis de Septiembre, the 16th of September, marks the launch of Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spain. On Sept. 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla led the first large revolutionary forces against the Spaniards. The holiday is similar to the Fourth of July in the United States.