In 2025 it will be 81 years since a historical event that Guatemala commemorates every October 20: the Day of the Revolution of 1944. During this date, activities and events are organized that remember the civil-military uprising that put an end to 14 years of dictatorship under the government of Jorge Ubico and ushered in a democratic era, with advances in labor rights, education and other areas. This year, October 20 will fall on a Monday.
That day there were clashes with firearms and cannons. A huge explosion shook the Fort of Saint Joseph —current Military Museum, adjacent to the Miguel Ángel Asturias Cultural Centerat 24th and 3rd streets. avenue in zone 1 of the capital. The fort surrendered and the revolutionaries emerged victorious, highlights the journalist Brenda Martinez in an article of D Magazine.
After the victory, the captain Jacobo Arbenzthe oldest Francisco Javier Arana and the civilian Jorge Toriello they integrated the Revolutionary Government Juntawho assumed power and issued 68 decree-laws between October 25, 1944 and February 28, 1945.
Simultaneously, two other institutions operated: the Congress of the Republic —then called the National Legislative Assembly—and the National Constituent Assemblywhich approved the Constitution of 1945, repealing that of 1879.
Within the framework of this commemoration, the Ministry of Culture and Sports (MCD) has published an agenda of activities related to this historical event, which includes art, culture and sports. The activities will be free and invite citizens to get involved, reflect and celebrate the collective memory of the country.
October 17
Inauguration of a photographic exhibition on Paseo de la Sexta, dedicated to the City of Sports, built in 1950 during the government of Juan José Arévalo.
October 18
Second edition of the Revolution Chess Tournament, at the National Palace of Culture, with the participation of 300 players and the support of the Ministry of Education, which will integrate this sport into the school curriculum.
October 19 and 20
On Sunday the 19th, the second edition of the Legends of Guatemala race will take place, starting at 7 a.m. The participation of nearly five thousand athletes is estimated, who will be able to register starting Friday the 10th through a link available on the MCD’s official social networks. The departure will be on La Reforma Avenue, in front of the Mineduc, and will end at the entrance to the Campo de Marte Sports Center.
Both days, the Plaza de la Constitución will host sports and recreational activities open to the public.
October 20
Under the bridge of the City of Sports, tribute will be paid to the 1950 Central American and Caribbean Games.
The day will close with a concert by the National Symphony Orchestra, in honor of the legacy of the Revolution that transformed the history of the country. It will be at 7 p.m. in the Plaza de la Constitución.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Discover the best cultural activities, events and leisure plans to enjoy your week and weekend to the fullest.
In our newsletter What to do in Guatemala, You will receive the guide for your free time. Subscribe here .
Other events in Guatemala
Check here other events that will take place in the country.
*If you want to share your event, you can send us the information to the email: quehacerenguatemala@prensalibre.com.gt