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Attention! 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 has decided to include an additional day off on July 23, so now there are three holidays, but what is the reason and what are we celebrating? Here are the answers.
What is celebrated on July 23 in Peru?
In 2023, the Congress of the Republic of Peru determined through Law No. 31822 that every July 23 would 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 between Peru and 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 the country during the war with Ecuador. While they were over the target and started the bombing, Quiñones began the descent of his plane to drop his bombs. Unfortunately, the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire. Instead of using his parachute to jump and save himself, the captain directed his plane towards the enemy target to fulfill his mission, even if it meant his own death.
Since when is July 23 a holiday?
This holiday applies since 2023, the year in which the date falls on a Sunday. Regarding this, the Government of Peru has not yet indicated if the following day (Monday) will be a holiday for public workers.
What happens if you have to work on the July 23 holiday?
Many companies continue to operate normally during holidays, so their employees must go to work as usual. But what happens in those cases? Those who work on those days receive triple payment for each day worked: a daily remuneration for the holiday (amount included in the regular salary), a second remuneration for the work performed (additional payment for the day worked), and a third remuneration for working on a holiday without subsequent substitute rest.
What 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. That means they occur during the weekend, 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: Immaculate Conception Day.
- Saturday, December 9: Battle of Ayacucho.
- Monday, December 25: Christmas.