Guayaquil declared its independence from Spain on October 9, 1820. The Independence of Guayaquil is considered a national holiday, but It is mostly celebrated by those who live in the city. It is known locally as "Independencia de Guayaquil". Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest and commercial city as well as the main international port. It is located on the western bank of the Guayas River, on the Pacific Coast. Because of its location, Guayaquil the center of Ecuador's fishing and manufacturing industries.

During October, the Pearl of the Pacific ("Perla del Pacifico" in Spanish) celebrates with several civic, festive, and cultural events. Guayaquil festivals also include fireworks, music, concerts, food, drinking, and dancing, as well as the traditional Nautical Parade through the Salado Estuary. Most events are held in the "9 de Octubre" street or near monuments that commemorate Guayaquil independence.

On October 9, 1820, a group of patriots allied with the corps of "Granaderos" took over the military post, its arms, and ammunition. They overwhelmed the resistance of the Spanish royalist guards and arrested the Spanish authorities. That day, Guayaquil gained its freedom and José Joaquin de Olmedo was named the Civilian Chief of Guayaquil.

In July of 1822, both liberators, who led the struggles for independence, Simon Bolivar and Jose de San Martin arrived in Guayaquil to discuss its liberation and inclusion to the Gran Colombia. In honor of this meeting, the La Rotonda monument was built. La Rotonda features these heroes shaking hands. It is located in the Malecon 2000 (boardwalk).