Independence Day (Venezuela)

Independence Day, also known as National Armed Forces Day, is a public holiday in Venezuela, and it is observed on July 5 each year. The holiday commemorates the anniversary when the First Republic of Venezuela was established on this day in 1811.

Venezuela is a country located on the northern coast of South America. Christopher Columbus arrived in 1498 during his third voyage. Spain colonized Venezuela starting in 1522 and established the first permanent South American settlement. They first focused on the northern coast and pushed farther inland in the mid-18th century.

In 1808, Napoleon I led the French Empire and invaded the homeland of Spain which created a power vacuum in Spanish colonies in America. The municipal council of Caracas in Venezuela took the opportunity and successfully deposed the Spanish Governor on April 19, 1810. They established the junta in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, and other provinces. On July 5, 1811, Venezuelans led by Francisco de Miranda declared independence from Spain and established the First Republic.

However, the republic collapsed in 1812 due to the Spanish assaults and the devastating Caracas earthquake. Although the First Republic lasted only a short time, it makes Venezuela the first country in South America to declare independence.

The following is the list of Independence Day in Venezuela from 2022 to 2026.

Please check more public holidays in Venezuela: