Independence Day in Colombia
Colombia celebrates Independence Day on July 20, recalling the 1810 events in Santafé de Bogotá that began the country’s independence process. The date is a paid public holiday for workers in both the public and private sectors.[1][2]
Date and public holiday status
Independence Day is observed on July 20 each year. Colombia’s Law 51 of 1983 gives workers in both the public and private sectors the right to paid rest on that date.[1][2]
The law moves certain listed holidays to the following Monday when they do not fall on a Monday. July 20 is not among those listed for transfer, so the holiday remains on its calendar date.[1]
The events behind the date
The commemoration looks back to events in Santafé, now Bogotá, on July 20, 1810. A dispute involving José González Llorente and two criollos helped spark a crowd’s demand for an open cabildo, or town council meeting. Camilo Torres and José Acevedo y Gómez were among those who signed the act of the Supreme Junta of Santafé.[3]
The day marks an early turning point in the independence movement, rather than the moment when the whole country became fully independent. A local governing junta was formed amid the crisis of Spanish rule, and the struggle for independence continued in the years that followed.[3][4]
How Colombians observe it
Official ceremonies and civil-military parades are among the ways the date is marked. In Pereira, a reported Independence Day observance centered on a parade involving police, military personnel and local authorities. Residents also celebrated with family and wore clothing or accessories in the colors of Colombia’s flag.[5]
The details of local events can differ. The Banco de la República describes the day as a celebration across the national territory and at Colombian diplomatic missions.[2][5]
What to expect as a visitor
The holiday’s legal effect is paid rest for workers, and the Banco de la República lists July 20 as a bank holiday. Government and bank counter services may therefore be unavailable; check the relevant office or bank for its schedule.[1][2]
Check opening hours with shops, tourist sites and transport providers before making plans, especially if your route passes near a parade.[5]
Frequently asked questions
When is Independence Day in Colombia?
It is observed every year on July 20.[2]
Is it a paid day off?
Colombian law gives public- and private-sector workers the right to paid rest on the holiday.[1]
Does the holiday move to Monday?
No. Law 51’s Monday-transfer rule applies to a specified list of holidays that does not include July 20.[1]
Are banks and shops open?
The Banco de la República lists the date as a bank holiday. Check opening hours with individual businesses.[2]
Will public transport run normally?
Check local transport notices before travelling, particularly if you plan to travel near a parade route.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for Independence Day in Colombia:
- LEY 51 DE 1983- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia
- FERIADO BANCARIO - Día de la Independencia de Colombia- Banco de la República
- Camilo Torres y Tenorio- Banco de la República Cultural Network
- José Miguel Pey y Andrade- Banco de la República Cultural Network
- Con un desfile militar y policial, se conmemoró los 215 años del Grito de Independencia Nacional- National Police of Colombia