Day 314 365 Things To Do in Panama

Day 314 of 365 Things To Do in Panama. Commemorate "Primer Grito de Independencia"

This is not the official date of independence from Spain. It is a holiday that commemorates the beginning of Panama's struggle to break free from Spanish rule. The event that sparked an anti-Spanish uprising in La Villa de los Santos is known as Grito de La Villa de los Santos or the Gesture of Rufina Alfaro. Legend has it, a young woman, Rufina Alfaro, who lived in the village near Los Santos overheard the Spaniards were heading to combat in Ecuador leaving few soldiers in Panama. On November 10, 1821 she led a group of Panamanian people shouting “Viva la Libertad” (Long live liberty). The Spanish barracks were seized without spilling a single drop of blood. This day is recognized as putting the wheels in motion. Once Los Santos secured its sovereignty, Panama City was forced to act, declaring full independence 18 days later.

The holiday is celebrated throughout Panama with colorful parades, folk music and dance, cultural events and other festivities.

Check out out a celebration near you!