Mexico City in September: Weather & Planning Tips

Mexico City in September offers comfortable temperatures, less rain, and fewer crowds (except for Independence Day weekend).

I don’t get rained on as much when walking my dog in the afternoons and I love how green the parks and tree-lined streets are.

Days are still warm enough to wear dresses or shorts and nights cool off nicely, and you won’t need more than a light jacket.   

Even if you’ve been to Mexico City before, it’s tricky to plan and pack if you’ve never been in September and don’t know what to expect. Or you may be wondering if September is even a good time for you to visit. 

I’ve lived in Mexico City full-time since 2018 so I know exactly what to expect.

I’ll cover everything you need to know about the weather, what clothes to pack, and important national holidays in September, so you can make the most of your trip!

Weather In Mexico City In September

The weather in Mexico City in September is pleasant and a little less rainy than July and August – even though it still is rainy season until the beginning of October. 

Plan on doing outdoor activities in the morning in case of an afternoon shower, but it’s unlikely you’ll see rain every day. 

This time of year is great because it isn’t as hot as in the spring and not as cold as in winter. I find that it’s one of the most comfortable months of the year temperature-wise.

If you don’t mind working around a couple of rainy afternoons, then the weather in Mexico City in September makes for a great time to visit.

Average Temperatures In Mexico City In September

I’ve suffered through the heat and humidity in places like Puerto Escondido and Los Cabos in September, but luckily Mexico City is relatively cool and comfortable this time of year. 

Mornings and nights can sometimes be chilly, but you won’t need more than a light jacket or fleece. During the day it’s warm and comfortable and usually not very hot. 

Temperatures in September are ideal for spending time outdoors, walking around neighborhoods like Roma Norte, or sipping a coffee at an outdoor cafe.

Average High: 75ºF Average Low: 53ºF

Average Rainfall In Mexico City In September

July and August in Mexico City get the most rain, but September isn’t too far behind. 

Be sure to carry an umbrella out with you and expect an afternoon shower every couple of days.

I try my best to avoid the sudden downpours when I’m walking my dog in the afternoon, but it’s hard to predict if it will start raining at 2PM or if it will hold off until after 5PM. I always carry an umbrella with me just in case. 

I recommend waking up early-ish so you can enjoy the outdoor activities you have planned before the afternoon showers start.

Average Sunshine In Mexico City In September

September sees the least amount of sun out of the year. It gets a little more than half the amount of sunshine of the sunny winter months.

But don’t let that scare you away from visiting in September. I live in Mexico City year-round and there is never really a time where I feel sun-deprived like I did on the East Coast of the U.S. during winter. 

If anything, the overcast skies help mellow out the intense high-altitude sun and keep you comfortable while you spend time walking the streets of the Historic Center or exploring the ruins of Teotihuacan.

Pollution In Mexico City In September

Mexico City usually gets steady rainfall starting in July which keeps pollution at bay until the end of the rainy season in October. 

If a few days go by without rain, air pollution starts to accumulate but it tends to get pushed out of the valley as soon as the next rainstorm pops up. 

September is one of the best months for air quality in Mexico City. My sinuses aren’t irritated or as dry like in winter and spring when air pollution is at its highest. 

If you have asthma, allergies, or are sensitive to poor air quality, September is a good time to visit.

What To Wear In Mexico City In September

September is pretty easy to pack for compared to other months. 

The temperature range during the day isn’t as drastic as in winter so you won’t need to bring as many layers. 

I usually wear jeans (when don’t I?), a short-sleeve top, and a lightweight jacket. 

You can also still get away with dresses, skirts, and shorts this time of year. But it’s just a question of dressing for the culture in Mexico City and not wearing clothes that are too revealing. 

Be sure to pack clothes that are comfortable for exploring, a few nice outfits for dinners out, and any special clothes you may need for a day trip out of the city. 

SHORT-SLEEVES & TANK-TOPS – During the day you’ll want to have short-sleeve or sleeveless options. They’ll be perfect for warm afternoons and you can easily layer on top as the day cools down.

DRESSES & SKIRTS – It’ll be warm enough still for you to wear your favorite dress, skirt, or shorts. I wouldn’t go too short but these can be comfortable options for walking around the city in. 

JEANS & TROUSERS – I’m almost always in jeans and September is perfect jean weather since it’s not hot and can get chilly at night. Bring at least one or two pairs of long pants. 

LIGHT JACKET OR SWEATER – I would bring a lightweight jacket and a couple of sweaters for layering. You’ll be glad you brought them when you’re having dinner at an outdoor patio or after a rain shower cools the city off. 

CLOSED-TOE SHOES – Nobody wants to trek through flooded city streets with exposed toes. Keep your feet dry and safe from city funk with closed-toe shoes. I’d bring at least two pairs in case your feet get soaked in a sudden downpour.

UMBRELLA – An umbrella is a must for rainy season. You could also bring a raincoat but I think you could save some space in your luggage and get by without one.

Mexican Holidays in September

Mexican Independence Day: September 15th & 16th – The most notable Mexican holiday in September is Independence Day. It starts with El Grito (more on that below) at 11 PM on the 15th. Most of the celebrations and partying happen this day and then the 16th is the official day that Mexico gained it’s independence from Spain and everybody has the day off. 

To avoid insane traffic (I’m talking 4+ hours to get in or out of the city) I recommend you avoid any day trips outside of the heart of Mexico City during Independence Day weekend. 

It’s best if you stay put and take part in the festivities like the ones below.

3 Best Things To Do In Mexico City In September

Luckily the weather in Mexico City is agreeable year-round, so popular things to do aren’t limited by the time of year unless it’s truly a seasonal activity like the firefly sanctuaries, Day of the Dead, or Independence Day festivities (like I talk about below).

1. Experience El Grito

Every year on September 15th for Mexico’s Independence Day, the president comes out onto his balcony of the presidential palace and shouts ¡Viva Mexico! (and a few other inspirational words) to the crowd-filled Zocalo in the Historic Center at 11 PM. 

This is what is known as “El Grito” and they’ve been doing it every year since Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1810. 

The Historic Center is PACKED and full of celebration all day leading up to El Grito. There is a free concert in the Zocalo to get everybody’s spirits up. It’s usually a big-name band and this year it’s La Banda MS playing Northern Mexican music from Sinaloa.

If you don’t mind crowds (and I’m talking shoulder-to-shoulder, sea of people type of crowds) and love a good party, then you can’t get a more Mexican experience than this.

2. Taste Chiles en Nogadas

This patriotic Mexican dish is only prepared in September so it’s worth trying if you’re here at the right time. 

The green of the chile poblano, the red of the pomegranate, and the white of the creamy pecan sauce represent the three colors of the Mexican flag. 

You’ll see signs for chiles en nogadas at every other restaurant in September. The chile poblanos are stuffed with ground beef and pork and a little fruit for a touch of sweetness. It’s topped off with a creamy pecan sauce and pomegranate seeds. 

I know, sounds like an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink kind of combination, but this dish is beloved by Mexicans and is only available for a few weeks out of the year. 
If you happen to be around, give them a try. Two of the best and most iconic places for chiles en nogadas are Cafe Tacuba or El Cardenal in the Historic Center.

3. Castillo de Chapultepec

You can visit the Chapultepec Castle any time of year, but September is great because all of Chapultepec Forest around the castle will be lush and green this time of year. 

Go early during the week if you want to beat the crowds (or the rain) but remember, like most museums, it’s closed on Mondays.

Is Mexico City Worth Visiting In September?

Mexico City is absolutely worth visiting in September. You’ll find pleasant weather, cultural experiences, and fewer crowds. 

The city comes alive for Mexican Independence Day on September 15th and 16th, offering a unique glimpse into Mexico’s celebratory spirit. 

Comfortable daytime temperatures (usually no higher than 75ºF) and cooler evenings are perfect for strolling through the city’s charming neighborhoods like La Condesa or eating at one of the countless restaurants in Roma Norte for an unforgettable culinary experience. 

The lush, green parks and reduced air pollution make this a fresh time to visit and be outside, especially in the morning before a potential afternoon shower. It still rains some in September, but it’s less frequent than in the peak rainy months of July and August.  

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie eager to try seasonal dishes like chiles en nogada, or just looking to soak up the local culture, September in Mexico City is one of the best times to visit!