Happy Birthday Peru!!!
Today Peru officially turns 190 years old. She is a long-lived wise lady. All those years ago, we proclaimed independence from the Spanish and became a country on our own right. But of course, in reality, Peru is much more than a country, and much older and wiser than 190 years ago. For anyone who’s ever had real contact with the magic, history and culture here, there’s no doubt about that.
The Fiestas Patrias Peruanas, or Peruvian National Holidays, are celebrations of Peru’s independence from the Spanish Empire. They officially consist of two days:
- July 28, in commemoration of Peru’s independence;
- July 29, in honor of the Armed Forcesand the National Police of Peru.
The celebration of Fiestas Patrias in Peru coincides with the vacation periods for the local schools as well as some businesses.
Fiestas Patrias is one of the most important celebrations of the year for Peruvians. Tourism tends to increase during these holidays with visitors coming to join in the celebrations.
July 28 in each year commemorates the day that Peru gained its independence. General José de San Martín, known as Peru’s liberator, proclaimed Peru’s independence on this date.
At dawn on the 28th a 21-cannon salute begins flag-raising ceremonies as Peru remembers the anniversary of its birth.
During the whole month of July, homes, office buildings, public and private institutions, schools, and restaurants display the national flag. It is obligatory, and it is rare to see any of these places without a flag.
It’s a day of celebration.
We wish you Peru, many happy returns of the day.
