12 October
Uruguay Day of Cultural Diversity/Day of the Races
Uruguay Day of Cultural Diversity, also known as the Day of the Races, is celebrated annually on October 12th. This holiday honors the country’s indigenous people and celebrates Latin American heritage and historical richness. It is an alternative take to Columbus Day and highlights the importance of cultural diversity in Uruguay. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional Catholic holidays being secularized and renamed, and a host of lively festivals that offer visitors a wonderful insight into this colorful nation.