I backpacked through Ecuador for 4 weeks in August of 2019. Already incredibly excited about this trip, I had no idea that Ecuador’s Independence Day fell in the middle of my visit! The city of Tena started their celebrating a week early with fireworks, which let me know what was coming. I ended up in the capital, Quito, on the exact day!
Rolling into Quito the night before the holiday was intense. Police dressed in armor and armed with brass knuckles and large weaponry guided buses around the busy streets. Immediately, I began to feel nervous. I had heard horror stories about Quito. How dangerous would it be during one of the biggest holidays of the year?
No Need to Worry!
Although the city was much more crowded than usual on the day of the holiday, it never felt unsafe. In fact, it felt safer! Tourist spots were crowded, but along with tourists came colorful carts selling food and drink, souvenirs, and even toilet paper! Anything to make a few dollars from the crowds.
The police officers were some of the friendliest I had met in any country I had traveled so far. I did not see a single instance of one pulling out their weapon or even raising their voice at someone. They were merely there just in case something were to happen.
Note: This was well before the recent riots in Quito and throughout Ecuador later in 2019.
About Ecuador’s Independence Day
On August 10th every year, Ecuador celebrates its independence from Spain in 1809. The day not only marks Ecuador’s independence but is considered “Ecuador Day” across the country. Thousands of people flock to the capital to celebrate every year!
Independence Day in Ecuador is celebrated with lots of food, parades, and music. People can be seen in traditional clothes attending various cultural events across the city. The many historical churches and cathedrals are often lit up in bright colors as well!
Tips for Attending Independence Day in Quito
Quito has been given the unfortunate label of a “dangerous” city. However, I did not find this to be true, even during one of the biggest events of the year! Here are some tips to help you stay safe and celebrate with the locals.
Watch for Pickpocketers
Quito, like every large city, has its fair share of pickpocketers. Watch your pockets and bags, especially when in crowds of people during the celebration! I even caught a woman with her hand in my purse. Luckily, I had my valuables tucked away in hidden pockets.
Don’t Drink, or Drink Very Little
One thing I noticed about Quito is that very few people were seen with an alcoholic beverage in hand. The few bars I saw were open for the holiday, but very few people were inside. Quito has a large brewery and beer culture. However, I saw very few people with bottles in their hands, and no signs of anyone obviously intoxicated. Drink at your own risk, as I am not sure what the local laws are with drinking or being intoxicated in public. You don’t want to be arrested in Ecuador!
Book Accommodation VERY Early
Quito fills up fast during the holiday! Traffic moves at a snail’s pace, and hotel/hostel rooms can be very difficult to find at short notice. Do yourself a favor and book accommodation early if you intend to celebrate in Quito!
Prepare for Crowds
People from all over Ecuador flock to Quito to celebrate Independence Day. Therefore, prepare for popular tourist spots to be crowded. You may need to wait in line a bit longer to see the equator or climb to the top of the cathedral, but the cheerful atmosphere around you is well worth it! Besides, how great would the view of the parades be from the top of the cathedral?
Be Respectful
As always, be respectful of the culture and people around you. This is Ecuador’s biggest holiday of the year, and they are allowing you to participate. Don’t make rude comments over the traditional food, dress, or government and military parades you may see. Respect this incredible culture, and join in on the fun!
A Day Worth Remembering
Celebrating Independence Day in Quito was one of my all-time favorite moments I experienced in 2019. The culture, food, and contagious excitement were so special! I highly encourage you to celebrate Ecuadorian Independence Day in Quito if you are able.
In my experience, Quito was just as safe as any other large city I’ve been to. Be smart, stay in lit areas, follow the general rules of the crowd, and keep your bags close. You’ll be fine!
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