Independence Day in Guam
Independence Day is a holiday in Guam.
When is Independence Day in Guam
Independence Day is celebrated on 04, July, 2023 in Guam.
About Independence Day in Guam
The Independence Day holiday in Guam is celebrated on July 21st every year. It is a public holiday that commemorates the day when Guam gained its independence from the United States in 1944, after being occupied by Japan during World War II.
The day is marked by various celebrations and events throughout the island. These include parades, fireworks displays, cultural performances, and food festivals. The main event is a military parade held in the capital city of Hagåtña, which features marching bands, military units, and floats.
The holiday is also a time for reflection and remembrance of the sacrifices made by the people of Guam during the war. Many families visit the war memorials and cemeteries to pay their respects to the fallen soldiers and civilians.
Overall, the Independence Day holiday in Guam is a time for celebration, unity, and patriotism. It is a reminder of the island’s rich history and the resilience of its people.
History of Independence Day in Guam
The history of Independence Day holiday in Guam dates back to the island’s colonization by Spain in the 17th century. Guam was later ceded to the United States in 1898 after the Spanish-American War.
During World War II, Guam was occupied by Japanese forces, but was liberated by American troops in 1944. The island remained under U.S. military control until it was granted territorial status in 1950.
In 1969, the Guam Legislature declared July 21 as “Guam Liberation Day,” a day to commemorate the island’s liberation from Japanese occupation during World War II. In 1970, the U.S. Congress passed the Organic Act, which granted Guam a greater degree of self-governance and made it a U.S. territory.
In 1976, the Guam Legislature passed a law designating July 4 as “Guam’s Independence Day,” a day to celebrate the island’s status as a self-governing territory within the United States. The holiday is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and other festivities.
Despite the name, Guam is not an independent country, but rather a U.S. territory with limited self-governance. However, the holiday serves as a reminder of the island’s unique history and cultural identity.
How is Independence Day celebrated in Guam
Independence Day is a national holiday in Guam, and it is celebrated on July 21st every year. The day is marked with various events and activities, including parades, fireworks, and cultural performances. The celebration usually begins with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by a parade featuring marching bands, floats, and traditional Chamorro dancers.
In addition to the parade, there are also food and craft fairs, live music performances, and sports tournaments. Many people also attend religious services to give thanks and pray for the country’s continued independence.
Fireworks displays are a significant part of the celebration, and many communities organize their own fireworks shows. The fireworks display in the capital city of Hagatna is particularly popular, and people gather on the beach to watch the show.
Overall, Independence Day in Guam is a festive and patriotic celebration that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the country’s independence and culture.