More Than 1,000 Torches Could Cross Guatemala City in 2026 Independence Celebrations

Guatemala City could see more than 1,000 torch processions during this year’s patriotic celebrations. The events will take place from Sept. 11 to 14 as Guatemala marks 205 years of independence.

Amílcar Montejo, spokesman for the Municipal Transit Police, told La Hora that authorities expect around 1,000 groups to carry the patriotic flame through the capital. Last year, officials recorded approximately 700 to 1,500 torch processions, so they are again preparing for a large turnout.

This year, organizers will light the torches at five locations instead of concentrating much of the activity at the Obelisk. The sites are Parque Erick Barrondo, Campos del Roosevelt, Campo Marte, Guatemala City Hall and the auxiliary municipal office in Zone 18. The locations, managed by the Ministry of Culture and Sports and the Municipality of Guatemala, will operate from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Municipal Transit Police plans to deploy officers to regulate traffic as the processions increase. The Guatemalan government has also promoted the interagency “Safe Torches” campaign to maintain order and protect participants.

Education authorities in Santa Rosa, Jutiapa and Chimaltenango have suspended torch processions as a preventive measure for students. The decision does not apply nationwide, and authorities expect the events in the capital to proceed normally.