Army Day
June 30, Monday
Historical context
Army Day dates back to the victory of the Liberal Revolution on June 30, 1871, when troops under the command of Miguel García Granados and Justo Rufino Barrios overthrew the regime of dictator Vicente Cerna, initiating reforms and modernization of the country.
Originally, the holiday was called "Revolution Day", but later the focus shifted to recognizing the role of the army in establishing and defending the new government, and it received its current name, Army Day.
When and how is it celebrated?
The date is always fixed — June 30. If it falls on a weekend, the official day off may be moved to the nearest Monday.
Celebrations include:
* Formal military parades in Guatemala City and other major cities
* Participation of all branches of the armed forces — land, air, and naval
* Demonstrations of military equipment and capabilities
* Speeches by officials, wreath-laying ceremonies, and tributes to participants in reform and military service
Where do the main events take place?
The parade starts at the monument to Saint Pope John Paul II, proceeds along the boulevards Las Américas and La Reforma, and ends at the building of the old Polytechnic School (now the headquarters of the Ministry of Defense).
Social perception and criticism
Despite its patriotic tone, the holiday is subject to debate: activists and civil groups criticize it because the army was involved in human rights violations during the civil war (1960–1996). They propose introducing a memorial march in honor of the conflict’s victims.
Public holiday status
It is an official public holiday: schools, municipalities, and most businesses are closed.
Why is the date important?
June 30 marks a crucial turning point in Guatemala’s history: the end of dictatorship, the strengthening of the army as a key state institution, and the beginning of a series of liberal reforms that significantly transformed the country.