Cuenca is Ecuador's third-largest city, and it was one of the major cities in the colonial era as well. Cuenca declared its independence from Spain on November 3, 1820. Known locally as "Independencia de Cuenca". Historically, before the rest of the country had gained its independence, Cuenca declared itself free from Spanish rule joined Guayaquil and Quito to form the territory of Ecuador.
What to do in Cuenca?
Visiting Cuenca on its independence day not only exposes you to colorful parades, dancing, partying, fireworks displays, food fairs, sporting events, and night concerts. It also gives you the opportunity to learn about this city named by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Tour the old colonial Spanish buildings in the downtown area. During this holiday most banks, offices, and other services close. Transportation and hotels get crowded. Parades are common this day. It also gives you the opportunity to see traditional costumes, music, and dance. The CIDAP Art Fair is also worth the visit. This annual fair draws artists from all over Latin America and runs along the Tomebamba River.
Traditional food
You can also eat some Cuenca's street food such as the pork sandwiches, grilled sausages, fruits on a stick. Don't forget to drink the traditional "canelazo" - a local alcoholic drink made with cinnamon and local fruits.
Usually, Cuenca celebrates for three days, with the third day being the last and biggest of the event. Cuenca's holidays are extended by the annual Day of the Dead observance. Activities begin by October 29 and continue through Tuesday, November 3. Due to the day of the dead holiday, it is common to find everywhere "guaguas" de pan and "colada morada". Guagua de pan is a kind of sweet treats decorated with colorful frosting. "Colada morada" is a purple beverage made with blackberries, pineapples, cornflower, lulu (naranjilla) and some species.
