Mexico's Independence Day is kicked off at 11 pm on the brightly decorated Zocalo with an appearance by the president, who rings a National Palace bell and cries out "Viva Mexico" three times. The crowd below shouts "Viva," waves flags, sprays foam and rings noisemakers as fireworks erupts. A military parade, bull fights, rodeos, music, parties follow the next day. Gay clubs also schedule special events.