What Holidays Does South America Celebrate?

South America is an incredibly diverse continent with many different countries, cultures, and traditions. With a rich history and a mix of Catholicism and Indigenous beliefs, South America has a multitude of holidays that reflect the unique blend of cultures and traditions.

Here are some of the most important holidays celebrated in different parts of South America:

Carnival

Carnival is one of the most important holidays in South America and is celebrated in various countries. The biggest Carnivals are in Brazil, but other countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, and Bolivia also celebrate Carnival in their own way. During Carnival, people wear colorful costumes and dance in the streets to celebrate the beginning of Lent.

Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead is celebrated in Mexico, but it is also observed in other parts of South America. This holiday is a time to remember loved ones who have passed away and to celebrate their lives. It is an important part of Mexican culture, and people often create altars with offerings such as food or flowers to honor the deceased.

Inti Raymi

Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, is a traditional Incan festival celebrated in Peru. It marks the winter solstice and the beginning of a new year. During the festival, people gather at the ancient Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman to witness colorful parades and ceremonies in honor of the sun.

Independence Day

Independence Day is celebrated in many South American countries to mark their liberation from imperial colonizers. For example, in Colombia, it is celebrated on July 20 to commemorate the country’s independence from Spain in 1810. In Argentina, it falls on July 9 to remember the day the country declared independence from Spain in 1816.

Christmas

Christmas is celebrated all over the world, and South America is no exception. In fact, many countries in South America have their own unique ways of celebrating the holiday. For example, in Brazil, people often have a big feast on Christmas Eve and exchange gifts at midnight. In Peru, it is traditional to attend Misa de Gallo, a Catholic Mass held at midnight.

In conclusion, South America is home to numerous holidays that reflect the cultural diversity of the continent. From the colorful Carnival celebrations in Brazil to the traditional Incan festival of Inti Raymi in Peru, each holiday has its own unique traditions and customs that make it special. Whether you live in South America or want to experience the culture as a tourist, there is always something to celebrate.

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