Fiestas de la Independencia: Vocabulario Temático

1- Independence Day Celebrations

People of different nations commemorate their Independence Day in a lot of unique and fun ways. Sometimes, these holidays are the best time of the year to party with the locals and to learn about their history and culture. 

1.1- Mexico, D[ia de la Independencia (September 15th– 16th)

You will definitely realize when it is Independence Day in Mexico. You will hear people taking to the crowded streets to yell the “Grito de Dolores,” the traditional battle cry of Mexican independence from Spain. From the 15th to the 16th the party doesn’t stop starting at the Zocalo in Mexico City and involving parades, concerts and, of course, fireworks!

1.2- Indonesia, Hari Kemerdekaan (August 17th)

Hari Kemerdekaan celebrates the end of 300 years of Dutch colonization. This event involves the typical Independence Day festivities like fireworks and parades full of people. But, there is one unique custom. It involves a game called Panjat Piang, where young people participate in pole-climbing contests. The poles can reach some really awesome heights and it’s an exciting spectacle for everyone.

1.3- Israel, Yom Haatzmaut (May 14th)

Israel and Tel Aviv specifically, are famous for its rooftop parties. You can also participate in street and park parties that happen  all over the city. You can also have a barbecue with local people in HaYarkon Park  with your favorite meats and vegetables where it’s also a great place to watch the evening fireworks.
 

1.4- India, Independence Day (August 15th)

India celebrates its freedom from the British that ended in 1947 with flag-waving, carnivals, and patriotic songs. But India also has a unique tradition. On August 15th the skies are crowded with colorful kites. It makes the celebration super unique and festive. Indians also have dinner on orange, green, and white dishes, the colors of their national flag.

1.5- Norway, Syttende Mai (May 17th)

May 17th is all about one main event in Norway: eating ice cream, then eating ice cream again, and again, and again! Norwegians celebrate this special day, often preparing for big “block party-style” parties for family and friends, then attending parades and watching fireworks.

1.6- South Africa, Freedom Day (April 27th)

Known as “Freedom Day” in South Africa, April 27th represents the end of Apartheid and also the first free elections when Nelson Mandela was elected president by the people, in 1994. This festivity is an emotionally charged holiday. Most people choose to celebrate this day with friends and meals feature the braai, which is similar to a barbecue.

1.7- France, Bastille Day (July 14th)

In France, when it is Bastille Day, you might have a hard time finding restaurants and shops open. This is because it’s an official day off for all French citizens. Therefore, the places you’ll find open are run by immigrants and attend almost exclusively to tourists. The celebration starts with a military parade and ends with fireworks at the Eiffel Tower. 

1.8- Australia, Australia Day (January 26th)

The traditions of Australia’s Independence Day are pretty simple. All they need is a barbecue, some fireworks, and the beach if you happen to be near one. Peaceful travelers will fit right in during this particular celebration. Of course, you won’t want to miss the ship races and surf competitions that take place in harbors all over the country.

2- Let's clarify some terms!

Locals $\to$ Local people: Habitante de un área o pueblo particular.

Example:
• The street was full of locals.

Crowded $\to$ Full of people: Lleno de gente, muy concurrido.

Example: 
• The room was very crowded.

Immigrants v/s Tourists

• “Immigrant” o “Inmigrante” se refiere a una persona que se va a vivir permanentemente a un país extranjero.

• “Tourist” o “Turista” se refiere a una persona que viaja o visita un lugar por placer, es decir, recorrer sus lugares más famosos o conocer más de la cultura de un país extranjero.

Parade v/s Carnival

• “Parade” o “Desfile” implica una procesión consecutiva de presentaciones, que son exhibidas avanzando en una calle, pasando frente a una multitud.

• “Carnival” o “Carnaval” implica distintos eventos como muestras de comida, shows musicales y artísticos y otros entretenimientos, donde además se puede incluir un desfile.