JULY: Party time for many nations

By Ilana Perry

THE MONTH OF JULY could well be renamed “national party month”, loaded with much to celebrate by local residents and visitors from around the world.

If you want to discover more about different nations' important historical holidays, meet expats in Panama or simply want to celebrate, then July is the month for you.

Many countries including Canada, the United States, France, and several South American countries will be displaying their patriotism, flags and culture

On JULY 1, Canada Day (Fete du Canada) Canada will be celebrating its 186th birthday; the day that the country of Canada was formed. In Canada there are many big public outdoor parties, concerts, firework shows and gatherings on the first day of the month. You can be sure to see Canadian expats in Panama showing pride for their country around the city.
In fact, the Canadian embassy has been offering a special Canadian menu at the Miramar Intercontinental hotel this week, and will be hosting a celebratory pancake breakfast for Canadians on Saturday June 29 at the City of Knowledge.

Only a few days later, it is the Americans' turn to celebrate. JULY 4 commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of

Independence that marked the United States' independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Famous for their extravagant fireworks and strong patriotism, there is much to be expected from the Americans here in Panama, including the annual BBQ at the Balboa Yacht Club.

JULY 14 (Quatorze Juillet) is Bastille Day, France's national day of celebration. It commemorates the sacking of the Bastille prison by French citizens, holding political prisoners who wrote letters that displeased the powerful royal government. This is event contributed to the beginning of the overthrow of the French monarchy.

Traditionally, the French Embassy puts on a reception in Plaza de Francia and pays a visit to the French cemetery (near Summit Park) where many of the French workers who started the Panama Canal are buried. In South America, many countries including Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia, and Peru will all be marking national historic events.
With a strong Venezuelan presence in Panama City, including many fine restaurants, there is sure to be a celebration on JULY 5 the Venezuelan Day of Independence.