Thousands of Mexicans have been celebrating 200 years of independence from Spain with dazzling light shows, fireworks and concerts.

成千上万的墨西哥人用令人眼花缭乱的灯光表演、烟火和演唱会来庆祝脱离西班牙独立200年。

President Felipe Calderon led official festivities, which culminated¹ in（达到顶点） repeated chants of "Viva Mexico".

Parties are being held across the country to mark the occasion.

But security has been tight, with 14,000 officers policing the party in the capital alone, amid fears that drug cartels could launch attacks.

Mexico declared independence from Spain in 1810, but became embroiled² in（卷入） a war with its colonial ruler until 1821, when Madrid finally recognised the new nation.

'Living in fear'

The festivities in the capital kicked off with a group of shamans（巫医） dressed in white robes and feathers carrying out a pre-Hispanic fire ritual.

Huge crowds gathered in the main square for hours of light shows, song and dance performances and firework displays.

A 20m (65ft) warrior³ statue was erected⁴ in the centre of the capital, towering above the revellers（饮酒狂欢者） .

Millions of people are taking part in other events across the country.

But correspondents say the run-up to the events has been marred⁵ by accusations⁶（指责，谴责） of overspending, bad planning and security concerns.

Heavily armed agents carrying metal detectors⁷ were deployed⁸ for the capital's celebrations and helicopters provided added security.

"In Mexico, we all live in fear. And the worst part is that we are starting to get used to it," dancer Eric Limon, who was taking part in the parade, told the Associated Press.

"I want to be part of something important. I know this won't solve our problems, but this is my grain of sand to create a sense of unity⁹. This is what Mexico needs."