Discovery Day observed in Puerto Rico ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Discovery Day observed in Puerto Rico and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Discovery Day is an official holiday in Puerto Rico, celebrated on November 19th every year. It marks the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival to the island in 1493 and the subsequent colonization of the island by Spain. Discovery Day has been celebrated since at least the late 18th century, when it was declared a public holiday by the Spanish government in 1791.
Today, Discovery Day is celebrated with parades, music, dancing, and other festivities throughout Puerto Rico. In San Juan, the capital city, the day begins with a flag-raising ceremony at Casa Blanca, the former home of Ponce de Leon and the first governor of Puerto Rico. The rest of the day is filled with traditional dances, music, and fireworks. Other cities across the island also have parades and celebrations.
To celebrate Discovery Day, Puerto Ricans often attend parades, visit historical sites related to Columbus’ voyage, including Old San Juan and El Morro Castle, and enjoy traditional dishes like mofongo and arroz con gandules. Families also come together for barbecues and bonfires, where they share stories and songs about the island’s history. To honor the legacy of Columbus, many people will dress up in period clothing and reenact scenes from his voyage. Finally, Discovery Day is a great opportunity to explore Puerto Rican culture, learn more about its history, and appreciate its vibrant heritage.