When the 4th of July comes around, cities in the US are bustling with people all decked out in red, white and blue. They spend the day enjoying barbecue, hot dogs and beer. In many schools, libraries, and government buildings, excerpts of the Declaration of Independence (a document that has been translated into numerous languages for our multilingual country) are brought out for decorations and exhibits. Independence Day is a big holiday in the US, but how do other countries interpret the significance of their own? Read on to learn about three other celebrations of freedom around the world.
Love for Freedom and Independence Day Celebrations
Peru – July 28-29
“Fiestas Patrias”
Peruvians love Independence Day so much that they officially celebrate it for 2 days! In fact, it is one of the year’s most important holidays, with some workers getting a whole week off from work. July 28th marks Peru’s independence from Spain by José de San Martin, and July 29th is the day of the establishment of the Republic and is used to honor the Armed Forces and National Police.
At dawn of the 28th, a 21-cannon salute kicks off flag-raising ceremonies, followed by a presidential address about the nation’s state and the government’s progress. Peruvians gather at the Playa Mayor or Plaza de Armas in Lima wearing colorful vibrant costumes and donning Peruvian flags. On the 29th, the pomp Great Military Parade fills the streets and the new president is sworn in during election years. At night, Peruvians enjoy their national drink, Pisco Sour, a cocktail made of Peruvian pisco, key lime juice, syrup, egg whites and Angostura bitters.
Mexico – September 15-16
“Día de la Independencia”
If you think Mexico’s Independence Day is on May 5th, “Cinco de Mayo,” then think again. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French Empire on May 5th, 1862 and is often mistaken for Mexico’s most important national holiday. Instead, Mexicans observe their day of freedom on September 15th and 16th. They memorialize the Grito de Dolores, the battle cry of the Mexican War of Independence.
Mexicans party for a full 24 hours, starting at 11PM in the Zócalo Square (the National Palace in Mexico City.) The president rings a bell and recites the cry of patriotism, while the crowd gathering in town squares across the nation chant in Spanish, “¡Viva!” (the Spanish translation is “Long live!”) Streets are decorated in green, white and red, the colors of the Mexican flag. At night a spectacular display of fireworks and fire light up the night sky.
Indonesia – August 17
“Hari Kemerdekaan”
Indonesians celebrate the spirit of a free Indonesia every August 17th with elaborate parades of marching bands, floats and performances. A flag-raising ceremony is held to honor the Republic at the National Palace. High school students are selected by the government to do the honor of hoisting the flag.
Family and friends meet up for gatherings, athletic events and sack races. Some even join a shrimp chip eating contest (which translates to quite a few stomach aches later that day). A favorite local tradition that’s popular among younger people is the Panjat Pinang. This activity is a symbolic translation of the struggles of Indonesians to achieve their independence from the Dutch. Participants of the game clamber up a tall nut tree greased with oil. At the top of the tree hang prizes like a bicycle, a radio, clothes, and a bucket of delicious goodies. Participants can choose to climb the tree alone, or work as a team and use their bodies as step stools to reach the top.
About Language Connections:
Language Connections is one of the top language service companies in the US. Over the last 30 years, we’ve focused on providing the best business translation services, interpreting services, as well as interpreter training and customized language training programs. In addition to top-tier corporate language training, we offer certified corporate interpreters and professional business translation services in 200+ languages. Our network includes linguists with backgrounds in all major industries. They’re ready to meet your needs, whether they’re for technical translation services, legal translation, government translation services, international development translation services, education translation services, life sciences translation, or something else. Reach out to us today for a free quote on our cost-efficient and timely translation services, interpreters, or other linguistic services.
Language Connections Inc.
2001 Beacon Street, Suite 105,
Boston, MA 02135
Phone: +1-617-731-3510
Email: service@languageconnections.com