Manta Turns 104: A Port City's Birthday by the Sea

Manta is celebrating 104 years as an independent canton with beach concerts, civic ceremonies and activities across the November holiday period.

On November 4, 1922, Manta became a canton in its own right after previously forming part of Montecristi.

Over the following century, it developed into one of Ecuador's major Pacific ports, with an economy shaped by fishing, seafood processing, commerce and tourism.

Music, beaches and civic traditions

The anniversary programme includes performances at several beaches and neighbourhood venues.

One of the main events, Manta Vive la Música, is scheduled for November 3 at El Murciélago beach from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m., with performers including AU-D, Tranzas and Maykel.

A Festival de la Colada Morada near the general cemetery connects the celebrations with Día de los Difuntos.

On November 4, the civic parade is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. along Avenida Malecón, followed by a formal commemorative session at Plaza del Mar at 3:30 p.m.

Holiday and security arrangements

The festivities coincide with a curfew announced for Manabí from November 1 through November 10, restricting circulation between midnight and 5 a.m.

Municipal authorities say official events will finish by 10 p.m., allowing participants time to return home.

Although the anniversary falls on Wednesday, November 4, the corresponding local public holiday has been transferred to Friday, November 6.

For Manta, the anniversary brings together the history of its independent local government and the fishing, port and coastal traditions that have shaped the city.