There’s nothing more satisfying than grabbing a handful of fresh berries and knowing they come straight off the bush. But a blueberry’s journey from field to table requires more than just a skillful hand. A few factors attribute to our product being as plump and fresh as it is.
A Salute to the Red, White and Red Flag!
If you happen to stroll down the streets of any city in Peru during the month of July, don’t be surprised by the fluttering red-white-red patterned flags flown outside homes and buildings. July 28th celebrates the liberation of Peru from Spain by the glorious liberator of Latin America, Jose de San Martin. Standing in front of a colossal crowd in the main square of the country’s capital, Lima, the honored general proclaimed Peru’s independence on July 28, 1821. Today, Peruvians commemorate the establishment of the Republic of Perú on July 29th. Known as ‘Fiestas Patrias,’ Peru’s Independence Day celebrations last two full days and most notably take place in the metropolitan capital. Read on to learn how Peruvians in the big city, some 489 kilometers (304 miles) south of our blueberry fields, celebrate these national holidays!
Pomp and ceremonies
Some Peruvians head to downtown Lima to watch the raising of the flag and join the 21 cannon salute at the Lima Cathedral. This annual mass is led by the city’s archbishop and closes with the Te Deum hymn. The president’s official address to the nation also takes place during this day and is broadcast live on TV across the country. One of the most popular parades is the Great Military Parade which is held every July 29 on Brasil Avenue gathering crowds of people from many neighborhoods.
The magic of water
In this part of the continent it may be a little too cold to get under a huge water fountain during July, but Peruvians love to enjoy the colorful spectacle of lights and water in Parque de la Reserva. During the days of Fiestas Patrias, the Magic Water Circuit puts on a beautiful show featuring music, lights and projections of Peruvian folk dances and other cultural themes.
Cheers to eating well!
There's no better way to celebrate Peru’s liberty than enjoying the nation’s outstanding cuisine. From street anticuchos to the luscious flavors of world renowned chef Virgilio Martínez’s creative dishes, all budgets and tastes can enjoy a culinary experience in Peru. Locals love celebrating the unique history and diversity of their country through its food. Creative chefs and humble home cooks utilize ingredients and traditions from all over the nation —from the Andes to the Amazon — filling us all with a sense of national pride.
A walk through time
The long holiday is popularly spent perusing national artifacts house in some of the most fascinating 16th and 17th century buildings in Peru. The Museo de Oro gathers an amazing private collection of gold, silver, precious metals, textiles and colonial weapons, while Larco Museum features a collection of over 50,000 ceramic works deriving from the Chimú, Chancay, Nazca, Cupisnique and Inca cultures. Housed in an impressive 18th century mansion, this outstanding museum also highlights gold and jewels and a unique collection of pre-Columbian erotic archaeological treasures. The Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI) showcases a great collection of Colonial and pre-Columbian art, and pairs the historic pieces with a selection of contemporary Peruvian art. All of these exhibitions make clear that patriotism is more than fireworks and parades.
