Consulate General of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay in Toronto

On August 29, approximately 900 people gathered at LiUNA Local 183 in Toronto to celebrate the 201st Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay. The event brought together members of the Uruguayan community, representatives of various Latin American communities, and Canadian guests.

The celebration was organized by the Consulate General of Uruguay in Toronto, together with Uruguayan community organizations Club Uruguay, Mano con Mano, and Ibiray. The event also featured a message from Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow commemorating Uruguay’s National Day.

The program opened with performances of the Uruguayan National Anthem and “A Mi Bandera,” accompanied by children dressed in school uniforms. The activity was coordinated by Ms. Sylvana Alberti, an official of the Consulate General.

Traditional Uruguayan dances followed, including the Pericón Nacional, performed by 12 Uruguayans residing in Toronto. Among the dancers was Ms. Valeria Sofía, an officer of the Consulate General. The performance was directed by Professor Raquel Busto, who was presented with a gift basket in recognition of her contribution.

The artistic program also featured a tango performance by Uruguayan-Canadian artist Mr. Elbio Fernández, as well as performances by “La Magia Candombe” and its drum ensemble and by the Candombe group of Club Uruguay. The participation of children and young people was particularly noteworthy, highlighting the community’s commitment to preserving and passing on Uruguayan cultural traditions to future generations.

The evening’s artistic program concluded with a performance by internationally acclaimed Uruguayan artist Charly Sosa. Accompanied by two Uruguayan-Canadian dancers, Sosa delivered an energetic show that generated great enthusiasm among the audience.

The celebration also showcased Uruguayan cuisine and entrepreneurship in Toronto. Traditional dishes were provided by El Emporio de los Sándwiches, a Uruguayan-owned establishment that has been serving the Toronto community for 40 years. Guests also had the opportunity to taste Uruguayan wine and other beverages, while visiting stands featuring Uruguay National Football Team apparel, merchandise from Uruguayan football clubs, and jewelry offered by Uruguayan entrepreneurs living in Toronto.

As part of the closing activities, a raffle was held featuring a variety of Uruguayan products, including a metal pennant from the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF), donated by the Consulate General.

Uruguayan Consul General Leonardo Olivera addressed the attendees and read a message from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Uruguayans living abroad. In the days leading up to the celebration, he also appeared on several local media outlets, including Ondas FM, CHHA 1610 AM – Radio Voces Latinas, and the streaming program “Cuéntame tu Historia,” helping to promote and publicize the event.

The celebration took place in an atmosphere of enthusiasm, friendship, and community spirit. It provided an important opportunity for Uruguayans in Toronto to come together, strengthen their connection to their roots, and promote Uruguay’s culture, traditions, and national identity in Canada.