South American Independence Days
History and Celebratiosn of the Dia de la Independencia
Independence from Spain was decades long for many South American nations who were inspired by the revolutions in France and the United States.
The French and American Revolutions were an inspiring element to the Independences of many South American nations. A few individuals took charge and helped lead armies against the Spanish Viceroyalty in the early 1800’s and decades later they had nations of their own. Here is a list of dates and brief festival descriptions.
Argentina- Argentina’s Día de la Independencia was declared on July 9, 1816 when an Independent Congress met at Tucumán and issued a formal declaration of independence from Spain.
Bolivia-The celebration runs from the 5-7 of August, although Independence was earned on August 6, 1822 from Spain. The country was named after liberator Simon Bolivar. Festivals, parades, music, drinking and pageants are held throughout Bolivia during the Independence celebrations.
Brazil- On September 7, 1822 Brazil's Dom Pedro officially declared independence from Portugal. The split from Portugal was relatively bloodless, which was quite rare in South America. Huge parties with drinking, dancing, and music are held throughout the country during the Independence day celebrations.
Chile- Chile celebrates Independence Day on September 18, or Dieciocho as they call it. Festivities occur across the country for the days before and after with drinking, food, parades, and music. Independence officially came in 1818, but was originally declared in 1810.
Colombia- Colombia is one of just a few countries that celebrate two dates for Independence Day. One is July 20, marking when Independence was declared, the other is August 7 (1819), which marks the final battle against the Spanish, the Battle of Boyacá. The population takes the day off of work and various festivities take place around the country.
Ecuador-August 10, 1809 marks South America’s first uprising against Spain. The date is celebrated in Quito and the rest of the country, while Guayaquil celebrates on October 9.
Paraguay - Paraguay’s Dia de la Indpendencia is celebrated on May 15 (1811), although the population takes the 14th off as well for an extended party of parades and dancing.
Peru - On, July 28, 1821 Peru declared its independence from Spain which lead to war of Independence that lasted for two years. Peruvians celebrate the holiday on the 28th and also take off on the 29th. Many will combine the days with their weekend and take the time to travel. Hotels are booked well in advance during these days, particularly in resort areas and country inns.
Uruguay - Uruguay declared Independence on August 25, 1825 after the Brazil-Argentina War as the country dec;ared Independence from newly formed Brazil.
Venezuela- Venezuela’s Independence form Spain was originally declared on July 5, 1811 although it wasn’t until a dace later that Simon Bolivar actually liberated the country. Caracas is the center of celebrations in the country today and highlights include parades and fireworks.
