The Fiestas Patrias Peruanas, or Peruvian National Holidays, are celebrations of Peru's independence from the Spanish Empire. At dawn on the 28th a 21 cannon salute begins flag-raising ceremonies as Peru commemorates the anniversary of its birth. On July 28, 1821 Lima witnessed the first declared proclamation of the Independence of Peru by Argentine liberator, General Jose de San Martin.
However absolute emancipation was not completed until December 1824 with the defeat of the Spanish troops in the battle of Ayacucho by General Antonio Jose de Sucre. On the Independence Day of Peru, every citizen pays tribute to the great patriots like Túpac Amaru, Pumacahua, Aguilar, and Micaela Bastidas, for all the sacrifices they made in order to re-instate the country's independence. The festivities in Peru begin with the president's speech to the nation, followed by hoisting of the flag, military parades, bullfights and fireworks.
There are also exhibitions and fairs held where national products and indigenous foods and crafts are displayed and sold. In various parts of Peru, the day is also celebrated with agricultural and livestock fairs. On July 29th Peru honors the Armed Forces and the National Police of Peru with a great military parade. The celebration of Fiestas Patrias in Peru coincides with the vacation periods for the local schools as well as some businesses. 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. Of course Peruvians celebrate with their delicious national foods, such as ceviche, causa, & papa a la Huancaína and make a toast with Pisco Sour which is Peru's national cocktail.
The drink's name come from the pisco, which is the base liquor, and the cocktail term sour, in reference to the sour citrus juice and sweeter components. So on this Peruvian Fiestas Patrias "Viva Peru!" and come to Casa to celebrate with us!