Intelligent Travel

Happy Independence Day, Central America!

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Thumbnail image for desfile.jpgToday five Central American nations--Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua--celebrate 188 years of independence. On this day in 1821, Central American notables accepted a plan drafted by Mexican caudillo Agustín de Iturbide that declared the five nations free from Spain. Today in Central America most people celebrate their independence much as we in the U.S. do on July 4th: a day off from school and work, full of parades, picnics, parties, and patriotism.

Here in the U.S., today also marks the start of National Hispanic Heritage Month during which communities around the U.S. celebrate the diverse and dynamic Hispanic culture. Here in D.C., some of my favorite activities related to Hispanic Heritage Month include the National Zoo's Fiesta Musical this Sunday, September 20th, from 11-5 p.m. Admission is free, so you can enjoy lots of Latin music and dance at the zoo's band shell, buy some authentic Latin cuisine, and browse the colorful arts and crafts for sale.

red.jpgLater in the month, on Sunday, September 27th, from 11-7 p.m., the D.C. neighborhood of Mount Pleasant celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with its Fiesta DC, the 38th annual Latino festival. They'll be lots of tasty Latin cuisine and more arts and crafts stands. Community organizations set up booths and distribute educational information. The most popular event at the festival is the "parade of nations": men, women, and children from the many nations of Latin America don their countries' folkloric dress and stroll Mount Pleasant street to traditional music. The Brazilians, in their samba feathers and finery, are the most popular, especially among the young men in the crowd.

How does your community celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

Photos: Top, Mount Pleasant Festival, courtesy of Sara Almgren; Bottom, Fiesta Musical courtesy of the Smithsonian National Zoo, Mehgan Murphy

4 Comments

Eric said:

Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance we as a people (and others) to celebrate our accomplishments. It's a chance to learn about us as well. Here in philly we have festivals, exhibitions and more:

http://press.gophila.com/releases/dear-hispanic-traveler-y-familia-celebrate-your-heritage-in-philadelphia

David said:

Hi Eric, Many hispanics have lost their lives fighting for this country because they value it and the people within it. The spanish culture influences a variety of areas such as music, food, language. Most languages are rooted in Latin. It is always good to learn about other cultures if we expect the same consideration when we visit other countries. Differences are what makes life interesting.Atlantic City Powerboat Show 2009

Happy indipendance day to Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras citizens . Nice photos and nice blogging .

http://betterblog.ning.com/profiles/blogs/tips-for-first-time-overseas

Jayson said:

I think it will be a great fun to be there at the time of celebration. Really very nice photos.

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Cultural, Authentic & Sustainable: This is your brain on travel. We showcase the essence of place, what's unique and original, and what locals cherish most about where they live. And we highlight places, practices, and people that are on the front lines of sustainable travel—travel that preserves places’ essential uniqueness for future generations. more...

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Jayson on Happy Independence Day, Central America!: I think it will be a great fun to be there at the time of celebration. Really very nice photos.
Sidney bitton on Happy Independence Day, Central America!: Happy indipendance day to Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras citizens . Nice photos and ni
David on Happy Independence Day, Central America!: Hi Eric, Many hispanics have lost their lives fighting for this country because they value it and th
Eric on Happy Independence Day, Central America!: Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance we as a people (and others) to celebrate our accomplishments. It

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