In Peru, July is a month with many holidays because we celebrate Independence Day (July 28 and 29). However, since 2023, that has changed and now the Congress of the Republic decided to include one more day off on the 23rd of that month, so now there are three holidays. But why is that and what is celebrated? Below are the answers.
What is celebrated on July 23rd in Peru?
In 2023, the Congress of the Republic of Peru determined through Law No. 31822 that every July 23rd should be recognized as the Day of the Peruvian Air Force and also commemorate the sacrifice of Captain FAP José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzales, who died in 1941 during the conflict with Ecuador.
Why is the heroic sacrifice of Captain FAP José Abelardo commemorated?
On July 23, 1941, Captain FAP José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzales decided to give his life to defend his country during the war with Ecuador. This was because when they were over the target and began the bombing, Quiñones started the descent of his plane to drop his bombs, unfortunately, the transport was hit by anti-aircraft fire. However, instead of using his parachute to jump and save himself, the captain directed his plane to the enemy target to fulfill his mission, even if it caused his death.
Since when is July 23rd a holiday?
This holiday applies since 2023, the year when the date falls on a Sunday. Regarding this, the Government of Peru has not yet indicated whether the following day (Monday) will be a holiday for public workers.
What happens if you have to work on the July 23rd holiday?
Many companies continue to operate as usual during holidays, so their employees must go to work normally. But what happens in those cases? Those who work on those days receive triple payment for each day worked: a daily salary for the holiday (amount included in the usual salary), a second payment for the work performed (additional payment for the day worked), and a third payment for working on a holiday, without subsequent substitute rest.
Which holidays are still left to celebrate in Peru in 2023?
There are still several holidays to celebrate in the country, although some fall on Sundays, which means they are on weekends, and it depends on the government whether people can rest the following day or not.
- Friday, July 28: Independence Day.
- Saturday, July 29: Independence Day.
- Sunday, August 6: Battle of Junín.
- Wednesday, August 30: Santa Rosa de Lima.
- Sunday, October 8: Battle of Angamos.
- Wednesday, November 1: All Saints' Day.
- Friday, December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
- Saturday, December 9: Battle of Ayacucho.
- Monday, December 25: Christmas.