Puerto Rico: Festivals and Holidays

Puerto Rico celebrates two people in July. There was Muñoz Rivera Day on July 17 in honor of Luis Muñoz Rivera (1859-1916) who was a patriot and a journalist. And on his birthday on July 27, José Celso Barbosa is honored on Barbosa Day. Barbosa was a physician, political leader and a sociologist who was instrumental in starting Puerto Rico’s health insurance system.

Both days are public holidays. I tried to find specific things for you to do if you are in Puerto Rico on Barbosa Day. One thing you can do is visit Barbosa’s home in Bayamón.

Even though there may not be any parades or events happening on Barbosa Day, here are two other July festivals that look like they’d be fun.

The Puerto Rico Salsa Congress: From July 22-28, international and national salsa dancers show off their talents and give instructions. Maybe you can pick up some salsa tips.

and St. James Festival: This one, held in Loíza the last week of July, celebrates Puerto Rico’s, indigenous, African and Spanish heritage–and St. James. This one lasts for 10 days. That’s some festival.