Thousands flock to Buenos Aires' Cabildo for May 25th Revolution anniversary

Buenos Aires buzzed with patriotic fervor as nearly 20,000 people flocked to the historic Cabildo on May 25th to commemorate the 216th anniversary of the May Revolution. The iconic building, adorned with Argentine flags, saw long queues of visitors of all ages from its opening at 1 p.m. well into the afternoon.

The celebrations followed a Te Deum service at the Metropolitan Cathedral. President Javier Milei, accompanied by Culture Secretary Leonardo Cifelli, attended the Cabildo, where interim director Horacio Mosquera awaited them. The Military Band "Tambor de Tacuarí" performed the Argentine National Anthem, with the crowd joining in. During the event, the traditional cry of "viva la patria" (long live the homeland) was heard more than the president's signature "viva la libertad, carajo" (long live freedom, damn it).

The day's festivities included performances by over ten folk dance troupes performing the pericón in the museum's courtyard. Reenactors from the Sociedad Victoriana Augusta Argentina showcased traditional attire, while vendors on the street sold flags, cockades, and other patriotic memorabilia. Anthropologist Néstor Zubeldía discussed recent archaeological findings at the Cabildo site, including 1725 foundations and over two thousand cultural artifacts. The historical musical "Patriotas, historia secreta de una revolución" also received a standing ovation.

Visitors explored Nora Iniesta's exhibition "Celeste Bandera" in the Sala Democracia, which featured patriotic artworks. The event concluded with hot chocolate served in the late afternoon and the Cabildo closing its doors at 8 p.m. Culture Secretariat officials reported that attendance significantly surpassed that of 2025, with estimates suggesting it matched last year's figure of around 20,000 people. The institution's director described it as an "incessant parade of people."