Ecuadorians celebrate independence from Spain on August 10, 1809. In Spanish, it translates as "El Dia del Primer Grito de Independencia de Quito" which means "The day of the first declaration of independence of Quito". August 10th is National public holiday.

Historically, Spanish colonization of Ecuador began in 1563 Quito. Spain set up a caste system in which peninsulars (Spaniards born in Spain) and criollos (Spaniards born in the Americas) ruled over everyone else.

The First major attempt for independence started nearly 300 years of Spanish colonization. The citizens of Quito (Ecuador's capital) were the first to rebel and declare independence on August 10th, 1809.  Lacking broad support, they were defeated in about three weeks. Though Ecuador's full independence was years away, this was the first step and is celebrated today as Ecuador's national day.

On 9 October 1820, Guayaquil became the first Ecuadorian city to gain its independence from Spain. The rest of Ecuador celebrated independence following victory at the Battle of Pichincha on 24 May 1822.

Ecuador celebrates its indecency with military parades and cultural events taking place across the country. Poultry, artisan and agricultural fairs are also held to entertain people. The biggest demonstrations happen in Quito. The Ecuadorian capital comes alive with color, music, concerts, parades, cultural exhibitions and festivities. People concentrate especially at the Plaza de la Independencia and the Palacio de Gobierno where Bands play Pasillo music as dancers perform in traditional costumes.

August 10th is celebrated for several days around the actual date. If it falls on a weekend, offices may be closed on the nearest Friday or Monday.