As we prepare for our trip we have been made aware of events taking place the day of our arrival. God is with us so we are not afraid but prayers are always wanted.

Celebration of the 36th Anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution of 1979 and Ongoing Demonstrations Near the Supreme Electoral Council in Managua

The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua advises U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Nicaragua that a celebration commemorating the 36th anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution of 1979 will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2015.  July 20 has been declared a national holiday in Nicaragua and the Embassy will be closed. Emergency consular services for U.S. citizens will be available (see contact information below). 

Official anniversary celebration preparations have started and heavy traffic around Managua is expected beginning on Friday, July 17, and continuing through Sunday, July 19. 

During these events, much of downtown Managua will be closed to vehicles, causing heavy traffic and congestion. Traffic will be heavy on all roads to Managua and access to public transportation will be limited. 

Additionally, local press is reporting that regular demonstrations organized by civil society and opposition groups will continue to take place in front of the Supreme Electoral Council offices in the Metrocentro area of Managua every Wednesday.  According to press, the demonstration on July 8 turned violent and resulted in injuries and arrests.

The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.