July is a month of vibrant red and white in Peru, the national colors, as the country commemorates its Independence Day on July 28th.
“Peru is, from this moment, free and independent by the general will of the towns and by the justice of their cause that God defends. Long live the country! Long live freedom! Long live independence!”
Don José de San Martín
With these powerful words, Don José de San Martín declared Peru’s independence on July 28, 1821, in front of over 16,000 people in Lima’s Plaza de Armas. After nearly 300 years under Spanish rule, Peru emerged as a sovereign republic.
A Grand Celebration in Peru
For travelers visiting Peru, the Independence Day celebrations on July 28 and 29 offer a unique opportunity to experience the nation’s vibrant culture. Many Peruvians take advantage of these holidays to travel or enjoy time with family, and the capital city of Lima hosts the most significant festivities.
On the morning of July 28th, the celebrations kick off with the traditional Te Deum Mass held at the Cathedral of Lima, attended by key political figures, including the president. Following the mass, Peruvians tune in to watch the ‘Mensaje a la Nación,’ where the president addresses the nation, discussing the government’s achievements and future goals.
On July 29th, Lima’s Brasil Avenue transforms into a sea of red and white for the Military Parade of National Holidays. This grand event features members of the Peruvian Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with the International Red Cross and the General Fire Department. Thousands of spectators gather along the avenue to witness the impressive display of national pride.
These two days are a celebration of Peru’s rich culture, incredible biodiversity, and vibrant traditions. From the Pacific coast to the vast Amazon, Peru stands proud as a free homeland.
Peruvian Independence Day in the World
Join the celebration no matter where you are! Experience the vibrant Peruvian fiesta and culture through these events:
Official Events in Benelux and Scandinavia by Peruvian Institutions
Mass and Toast in Honor of Independence Day
📍 Stockholm, Sweden
📅 July 26th, 2024 at 15:00hrs
RSVP: rsvp@peruembassy.se (before July 19th)
Organized by the Embassy of Peru in Sweden
Mass and Investiture of the Iconic Manneken Pis Statue
📍 Brussels, Belgium
📅 July 29th, 2024
09:30 – 10:30hrs Mass at Saint Michel College Church
12:15 – 12:45hrs Investiture of the iconic Manneken Pis Statue
Organized by the Embassy of Peru in Brussels & the Consulate of Peru in Brussels
Mass and Toast in Honor of Independence Day
📍 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
📅 July 28th, 2024
13:00hrs Mass at Basilica de San Nicolas
14:30hrs Toast at Festival organized by ‘Comunidad Peruana en Países Bajos’
Organized by the Consulate of Peru in Amsterdam
Various Events in Celebration of Independence Day
📍 Oslo, Norway
📅 July 25th 19:00 – 20:00hrs Mass at St. Josef
📅 July 27th 17:00 – 18:00hrs ‘Fiestas Patrias’ Celebration with the participation of the Peruvian Ambassador to Norway
📅 July 28th 15:00 – 17:00hrs Family Championship
Organized by Pachamama Frivillig with the support of the Embassy of Peru in Norway
Special Dinners in Benelux and Scandinavia
Peruvian restaurants worldwide offer special discounts and menus to mark the occasion. Find your nearest Peruvian restaurant and indulge in the nation’s exquisite cuisine.
Peruvian Festivals in Benelux and Scandinavia
The international Peruvian community embraces the celebration with great pride. Discover the special events happening for Fiestas Patrias and join in the festivities.
Fiestas Patrias Celebration
📍 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
📅 July 28th, 2024
Organized by Comunidad Peruana en los Países Bajos
Do you know any other special celebrations in Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Denmark, Sweden, Norway or Finland? Share it with us. Send an email to psota@promperu.gob.pe