Fiestas Patrias (Peru)

The Fiestas Patrias peruanas, or Peruvian National Holidays, are celebrations of Peru's independence from the Spanish Empire. They officially consist of two days:

The celebration of Fiestas Patrias in Peru coincides with the vacation periods for the local schools as well as some businesses.

Along with Christmas, Fiestas Patrias is one of the most important celebrations of the year for Peruvians and it is normal for local businesses to generate as much revenue as in the month of December. 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.

The President of Peru fulfills one of his major obligations during these days. In his capacity as Head of State he must, on July 28 of each year, give an accounting of the nation's progress up to this date. This Peruvian custom was established by José de San Martín.

On the morning of July 28, the Archbishop of Lima celebrates the Mass of Te Deum as mandated by the Roman Catholic Church. Originally the Mass was celebrated on July 29 but it was changed afterwards. The major dignitaries, including the President, attend.

The mass officially begins at 9:00 A.M.

On the morning of July 28 representatives of the Congress of the Republic of Peru go to the Government Palace to invite the President to give the transitional Address to the Nation.

The delegation of the Peruvian Legislature can be led by any congressman or by the President of the Congress.

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