Independence Day in Guatemala is celebrated on September 15 to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence of Guatemala from Spanish rule in 1821. Celebrations include parades, music, marching bands, and cultural activities, often preceded by the symbolic lighting of torches the night before.
How do Guatemalans celebrate Independence Day?
Schools prepare children to march with the Guatemalan flag and other Central American flags, which also celebrate their independence on the same day. After the parade, they sing the national anthem, commemorate the Pledge of Allegiance, and then prepare performances, such as traditional dances or marimba.
by Josue
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Why was the Quetzal chosen as the national bird of Guatemala?
The Quetzal was chosen as Guatemala’s national bird in 1871 as a symbol of freedom, sovereignty, and identity. This choice was based on its significance in pre-Hispanic cultures, where it was a sacred bird associated with deities like Quetzalcoatl, as it is said to die if its freedom or habitat is taken away. Its beauty and cultural significance endure today, with its image featured on the national coat of arms, the name of the currency, and the country’s anthem.
I went with my friend and cousin to carry the torch, they turned on the gas and started running with the torch in the center of my town and then they put the flag in the sky. In Guatemala, the torch symbolizes freedom and independence, representing the light that illuminates the nation’s path and its transmission from generation to generation The tradition of the Torch Run originates from the 1959 journey undertaken by Central American riders to spread the Declaration of Independence, becoming a symbol of unity, patriotism, and celebration, especially during the national holidays on September 15th.
In class when the teachers, they see how close to September and then tell the students that they are going to choose three queens in each grade and they represent respect for other people. They give them like two papers, one that is in spanish and the another that is in Ixil and they start talking and they make three reports.
by Maribela
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