Argentina's Independence Day — Día de la Independencia — is celebrated every 9 July, a Thursday in 2026. It marks the formal birth of the nation. Here's the history, and how it differs from Argentina's other big patriotic date in May.
See the Argentina Independence Day holiday page or Argentina's holiday calendar.
Why is Argentina Independence Day on July 9?
It marks 9 July 1816, the day the Congress of Tucumán formally declared independence from Spain, creating the United Provinces of South America — the forerunner of modern Argentina.
The declaration came after years of conflict following the initial break with Spanish colonial authority.
July 9 vs May 25: two dates, one independence
Argentina has two major patriotic anniversaries, which can be confusing:
- 25 May 1810 — the May Revolution (Revolución de Mayo). This is when Buenos Aires removed the Spanish viceroy and formed its own government, beginning the process toward independence. Celebrated as Día de la Revolución de Mayo.
- 9 July 1816 — the formal Declaration of Independence at Tucumán, which completed it.
So May 25 started the journey, and July 9 sealed it.
How July 9 is celebrated
- Official ceremonies and patriotic events nationwide.
- Parades, traditional foods like locro (a hearty stew), and displays of the light-blue and white national colours.
- It is a national public holiday.
Quick answers
Why is Argentina Independence Day on July 9? It marks the formal declaration of independence from Spain by the Congress of Tucumán on 9 July 1816.
What's the difference between May 25 and July 9? May 25 (1810) was the May Revolution that began the move toward independence; July 9 (1816) was the formal declaration that completed it.
What is the Congress of Tucumán? The assembly that declared Argentine independence in the city of Tucumán in 1816.
When is Argentina Independence Day 2026? Thursday, 9 July 2026 — it is always 9 July.