When the Republic of Colombia celebrates its independence, festivities take place all over the world. In the 208 years since the former Spanish colony became a sovereign state, the occasion has been observed in Colombian cities like Bogotá and Medellín and worldwide Colombian communities in Miami, Los Angeles, London, Melbourne, and beyond.

On July 20, 1810 the formation of the Junta de Santa Fe in Bogotá sowed the seeds of a movement that led to Colombia becoming the first constitutional government in South America. According to a popular children’s song, the yellow in Colombia’s national flag (depicted in today’s Doodle) represents Colombia’s gold, the blue its two oceans (Caribbean and Pacific), and the red the valor and sacrifice of those who battled for freedom.

From urban centers in the Andes mountains to smaller coastal villages, schools and businesses close today as proud citizens gather to watch parades with patriotic flair. At home with family and friends, Colombians everywhere take time out to enjoy some traditional cumbia and champeta music while eating national delicacies like tamales and bandeja paisa—a hearty breakfast of beans, white rice, chorizo, chicharrón, carne en polvo, fried egg, ripe plantain, and avocado.