19/06/2026 13:14 - Actualidad
Niños de cuarto grado con uniformes escolares sosteniendo banderas argentinas durante ceremonia de Promesa de Lealtad a la Bandera en una plaza
The Municipality of Paraná has announced a special initiative allowing 4th-grade students to access free urban public transportation to participate in the Pledge of Allegiance to the National Flag. This benefit, coordinated with the local transport company San José, will be available on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
To access this free service, students must wear their school uniform, which identifies them as ceremony participants. This measure aims to support families and ensure access to one of the most meaningful events in Argentine school life and civic education.
June 20th marks the anniversary of the death of General Manuel Belgrano (1820), the creator of the Argentine flag. This date was established as Flag Day by Law 12.361 in 1938. It is one of Argentina's most important patriotic holidays, celebrated nationwide with ceremonies in schools and public squares.
For international visitors unfamiliar with this tradition, the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag (known in Spanish as 'Promesa de Lealtad a la Bandera') is a symbolic ceremony that marks the commitment of Argentine citizens to their national values. During this emotional event, 4th-grade students—typically around 9-10 years old—solemnly promise to 'love and honor' the flag as a symbol of their homeland.
This tradition is mandatory in Argentine schools and represents one of the most significant moments in a child's civic education. It is usually performed by students in their 4th year of primary school, and families attend in large numbers to witness this milestone.
Manuel Belgrano (1770-1820) was an Argentine lawyer, economist, journalist, military leader, and politician—one of the founding fathers of Argentina. He created the national flag on February 27, 1812 in Rosario, Santa Fe. The flag's colors, light blue and white, were chosen from the cockade used during the May Revolution of 1810. Belgrano died in poverty on June 20, 1820, but his legacy endures as one of Argentina's most revered national heroes.
The central ceremony will take place at Plaza Mansilla in Paraná, where more than 2,000 fourth-grade students from various schools across the city are expected to gather. This makes it one of the largest civic gatherings in the region.
Additionally, local schools have been holding their own ceremonies throughout the week. For instance, Escuela Normal Superior 'José María Torres' hosted an emotional event where 80 fourth-grade students celebrated their pledge alongside proud families and teachers.
Visitors interested in experiencing authentic Argentine culture are welcome to observe the ceremony at Plaza Mansilla. Arriving early is recommended. Paraná is the capital city of Entre Ríos province, located across the Paraná River from Santa Fe city. The celebration offers a unique glimpse into Argentina's patriotic traditions.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
