Latin American Independence Days. In Latin America, several countries celebrate their independence in September. The main ones are:
- Brazil – September 7 (Independence from Portugal in 1822).
- Mexico – September 16 (Independence from Spain in 1810).
- Guatemala – September 15 (Independence from Spain in 1821).
- El Salvador – September 15 (Independence from Spain in 1821).
- Honduras – September 15 (Independence from Spain in 1821).
- Nicaragua – September 15 (Independence from Spain in 1821).
- Costa Rica – September 15 (Independence from Spain in 1821).
- Chile – September 18 (Independence from Spain in 1810).
Latin American Independence Days commemorate the start of the independence movements or the signing of their independence acts during this month.
Latin American Independence Days Overview
Mexico celebrates its Independence Day on September 16 with the traditional “Grito de Dolores,” a reenactment of the call for independence made by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. The night of September 15, the President gives the “Grito” from the National Palace in Mexico City, and similar ceremonies are held across the country. Celebrations include parades, fireworks, and patriotic displays throughout the day.
Read More: Mexican Independence Day
Guatemala celebrates its Independence Day on September 15 with cultural events, parades, and patriotic displays. One of the most famous traditions is the “Antorcha de la Independencia,” where runners carry a torch from different parts of Central America to the capital. Schools, military, and civic groups participate in the festivities, which often include music, dances, and fireworks.
El Salvador marks its Independence Day on September 15 with parades, military displays, and school performances. The celebrations often feature processions of students and military personnel, traditional dances, and the national anthem being sung at public events. The streets of major cities, especially San Salvador, are filled with patriotic colors and flags.
Honduras celebrates Independence Day on September 15 with vibrant parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and cultural performances. Schools and government institutions hold events throughout the country, with Tegucigalpa hosting a large-scale parade featuring students, military bands, and floats. The day is filled with patriotic speeches, traditional music, and dances.
Nicaragua celebrates its Independence Day on September 15 with parades, concerts, and public speeches. The capital city, Managua, hosts the most significant events, with students, government officials, and the military taking part in the celebrations. Traditional dances, national flags, and patriotic songs are central elements of the festivities.
Costa Rica celebrates its Independence Day on September 15 with the “Desfile de Faroles” (Lantern Parade), where children carry lanterns to symbolize the arrival of independence news. Parades, school presentations, and cultural activities take place across the country. The “Act of Independence” is read in public squares, and there are many artistic performances in San José and other cities.
Chile celebrates its Independence on September 18, known as “Fiestas Patrias” or “Dieciocho,” with national holidays that extend for several days. The celebrations include “fondas” (traditional fairs), parades, military ceremonies, and rodeos. People enjoy traditional Chilean food like empanadas, and the national dance, “Cueca,” is performed across the country.
Read More: Chile Independence Day
Brazil celebrates its Independence Day on September 7, marking the country’s declaration of independence from Portugal in 1822. The day is known as Sete de Setembro and is a national holiday. Celebrations typically include military parades, patriotic speeches, and cultural events across the country. The largest parade takes place in the capital, Brasília, with the participation of the president, military forces, and various civilian organizations. Fireworks, music, and performances highlighting Brazilian history and culture are common in cities throughout the country.
Read More: Brazil Independence Day
