Panama's First Cry of Independence Day
November 10 · Level 8 · #582 of 2238
This holiday recalls the 1821 uprising against Spanish rule in Villa de Los Santos. Remembered as Panama's “First Cry of Independence,” the local declaration helped set the stage for the territory's break with Spain.
How it is celebrated: parades, flag ceremonies, marching bands and folk performances bring the anniversary into public spaces. Celebrations have particular significance in Los Santos, where the event is part of local identity as well as national history.
The first cry was followed remarkably quickly by independence from Spain: Panama declared it just 18 days later, on 28 November 1821.