Sep 15, 2023
Guatemala Independence Day 2023
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates Guatemala’s Independence Day! On this day in 1821, Guatemala and several other Central American countries signed the Act of Independence of Central America and gained independence from Spanish rule.
During the colonial period, Guatemala was a captaincy-general territory (or administrative division) of Spain. Several other Central American countries like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua were grouped into this domain, which was also called the Reino de Guatemala (Kingdom of Guatemala). In 1821, at a public meeting in Guatemala City, they signed the Act of Independence of Central America and eventually formed the Federal Republic of Central America.
On Independence Day, Guatemalans visit extravagant parades featuring cheerful bands and vibrant floats, high-spirited night concerts, firework shows that light up the night sky, and local markets with mouth-watering delicacies. Some dishes include pepián (saucy chicken stew), shucos (Guatemalan-inspired hot dogs), and Kak’Ik (traditional spicy soup with Mayan origins). Many also wear colorful clothing and costumes influenced by Mayan designs and dance along with traditional marimba dance performances.
Happy Independence Day, Guatemala!
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