Foundation of Quito in Ecuador

Day: The Foundation of Quito is celebrated on December 6th annually, marking the date in 1534 when the city was officially founded by the Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Benalcázar.

History: Quito has a rich pre-Columbian history, being originally settled by the Quitu tribe in the first millennium. Later, it became part of the Incan Empire before falling to Spanish conquest. The official founding of Quito in 1534 represented a pivotal moment when Spanish culture and governance became entrenched in the region.

Traditions: The day is celebrated with a variety of cultural events and activities that reflect the city's mixed heritage:

• Fiestas de Quito: A week-long series of festivities leading up to December 6th, featuring parades, live music, and dancing.
• Seranatas Quiteñas: Musical tributes where traditional songs are performed to honor the city.
• Chivas: Open-air buses that tour around the city with revelers singing and dancing.
• Bullfights: Although controversial and declining in popularity, bullfights have historically been part of the celebrations.
• Cultural Exhibitions: Artistic displays showcasing local history, art, and culture can be found throughout Quito.

What People Do: Residents often participate or attend various events such as:

• Watching or participating in parades with colorful costumes and floats.
• Enjoying traditional food and drinks special to this day like canelazo (a spiced cinnamon drink) and empanadas.
• Engaging with street performances and community dances.
• Attending concerts featuring both contemporary and folkloric music.