Days of Celebration of Indigenous Culture in Chile

Indigenous culture has been an integral part of Chile 's history and identity for centuries. Although Spanish and European influence have shaped much of modern Chilean culture, there are still many traditions and customs from indigenous cultures that are celebrated today.

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National Day of Indigenous Peoples

On June 24, the National Day of Indigenous Peoples is celebrated in Chile. This date commemorates the struggle and resistance of the indigenous peoples of Chile throughout history. It is a day to celebrate the richness and diversity of indigenous cultures and recognize their importance in today's Chilean society. On this day, various activities are carried out such as concerts, exhibitions, fairs and other cultural manifestations that seek to highlight the presence and value of indigenous cultures in the identity of Chile.

We Tripantu

We Tripantu is the winter solstice celebration of the Mapuches, the largest indigenous people in Chile. This festival is celebrated every year on June 21 and is one of the most important festivals in the Mapuche calendar. We Tripantu is a moment of renewal and union for the Mapuche community, where traditional ceremonies and rituals are performed to thank nature and ask for a good harvest and prosperity in the future.

Machaq Mara

The Machaq Mara is the celebration of the Aymara new year, an indigenous people living in northern Chile. This festivity takes place on June 21, coinciding with the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. During this celebration, traditional rituals are performed, Aymara songs are sung and danced, and food and drink are shared. The Machaq Mara is a celebration of the continuity of life and the renewal of nature.

Rapa Nui Tapati

The Rapa Nui Tapati is an annual celebration that takes place on Easter Island, which is part of Chile. This celebration takes place for two weeks in February and is a sample of Rapanui culture and traditions. During Rapa Nui Tapati, sports competitions, dances and songs are held, and traditional religious rituals are celebrated. The Rapa Nui Tapati is an opportunity for the Rapanui to show and share their culture with the world.

Inti Raymi

The Inti Raymi is a celebration of the winter solstice of the Quechua peoples that inhabit the north of Chile. This festivity is celebrated every year in June and is a sample of the culture and traditions of the Quechua peoples. During Inti Raymi, ceremonies and rituals are performed to thank nature and ask for a good harvest. Traditional Quechua dances and songs are also performed, and food and drinks are shared. The Inti Raymi is a celebration of the connection of the Quechua peoples with nature and the importance of agriculture in their lives.

These are just some of the celebrations of indigenous culture in Chile . There are also other festivities and ceremonies that take place throughout the year in different regions of the country. It is important to remember and value the presence and influence of indigenous cultures in today's Chilean society, and these celebrations are a way to honor and respect those traditions.

If you are interested in experiencing these celebrations of indigenous culture in Chile, there are some community tourism options that allow you to get involved and learn about these traditions directly from the indigenous communities. Some of these options include lodging in the homes of indigenous families, participation in traditional ceremonies and rituals, and craft and gastronomy workshops. These tourism experiences also help support indigenous communities and promote sustainable tourism .