Fiestas Patrias in Peru
On 28 and 29 July each year Peru celebrates Fiestas Patrias, the national holidays to commemorate the country’s independence. It’s the biggest holiday in Peru after Christmas and the whole country takes part in the lively festivities.
28 July marks the official day when Jose de San Martin declared Peru’s independence from Spain in 1821. Then 29 July is a day in tribute to the country’s national police and armed forces.
If you’re in Peru during Fiestas Patrias, here are our 5 top picks to soak up the atmosphere and join in the fun.
1. Parades through the streets of Lima
As the official national celebration of independence, there’s a lot of pomp and ceremony that goes along with this important day. Head into the city centre of Lima to watch the raising of the flag at the Cathedral and the 21 gun salute on 28 July, followed by the huge parade through the streets on 29 July. These are great ways to see Peru’s national pride in action. There are also parades, festivals and fireworks in other towns and cities throughout Peru.
2. Understand the story of Peru
Peru’s story of independence spans many centuries, through different periods of transition and change for the country. To understand how Peru arrived at its independence celebrations of today, let Aracari take you on a journey through the country’s past. With specialist guides taking you to the top historic sites and museums for private tours, understanding the past is a great way to appreciate modern day Peru.
3. Fly the colours
You’ll see that all public buildings in Peru proudly fly the Peruvian flag for Fiestas Patrias, and decorate their buildings in red and white. Even vehicles, bicycles and pets get in on the action. Peru’s flag is red and white, colours chosen by Jose de San Martin, The Liberator. The coat of arms in the centre of the flag features a llama and a chichona tree, important symbols of Peru, and the cornucopia represents prosperity. Join the celebration by wearing red and white and flying the flag!
4. Magic Water Circuit
Located in Parque de la Reserva in Lima, the world’s largest water fountain complex puts on a special show for Fiestas Patrias. Each show lasts 20 minutes and will be continuously played throughout the four day holiday weekend between 8.15pm and 9.15pm. The spectacular water and lights show tells the story of Peru’s history, with imagery, film, and traditional and modern music.
5. Patriotic Food & Drink
What better way to celebrate Peru than through its amazing food and drink? Try some classic local dishes like ceviche, anticuchos, lomo saltado and causa. Of course, you’ll have to wash that down with a perfect pisco sour or Ponche de los Libertadores, the traditional drink to toast the country’s independence! Aracari’s Lima with Zest is the perfect culinary tour to introduce you to the tantilising tastes of Peru.
The best way to understand a country, its history and traditions is to experience it firsthand. Aracari is all about experiential travel – if you’re considering a trip to Peru that coincides with any festivals or national holidays, we offer tailor made trips to ensure you have a unique and authentic experience.
Ready to plan a trip to Peru? Contact us.