Lima’s Independence Day is celebrated each July
Lima’s Independence Day turns this Peruvian city into a celebration on the streets.Lima, Peru comes alive each July as people take to the streets to celebrate Lima's Independence Day, known as the ‘Fiestas Patrias’. The event is eagerly awaited by all limeños, the people of Lima, and the celebrations reach into the parks and city centres. It involves drink, food, music, fireworks and parades, including a great military parade on the final day of the festivities. The military parade takes place either down Avenida Brasil or Avenida De La Peruanidad, and both streets are transformed for the day. The festivities celebrate Peru’s independence as a former Spanish colony and the night before the festival involves celebration of Peruvian folklore and traditional music.
The morning itself is marked with twenty-one cannon shots to remind all within earshot about the importance of the festival. After this, the Peruvian flag is hoisted above the governmental palace before the president offers his traditional speech to the public. The celebration is as important to the people as it is to the government, and the city of Peru has lots of positive energy and goodwill during this time. Tourists are particularly welcome and the people of Peru are often eager to help foreign nationals get a better understanding of Peruvian culture and traditions. Independence Day coincides with Lima’s International Book Fair should you wish a temporary escape from the fun and festivities. You can reach Lima from London Heathrow, and find yourself a wonderful South American welcome during the exciting festival time. There is never a better time to visit Peru.
