December 2023 Calendar - Chile

The month of December in Chile marks the beginning of the Christmas season and is a time full of festivities and traditions. From religious celebrations to cultural events and festivals, this month is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and Christmas spirit of Chile.

Immaculate Conception Day (December 8)

The Day of the Immaculate Conception is a religious holiday celebrated on December 8 in many countries with a Catholic tradition, including Chile . This commemoration aims to honor the belief that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin, which made her worthy to be the mother of Jesus Christ.

The festivity of the Immaculate Conception is one of the most important in the liturgical calendar in Chile and is considered a feast of obligation, which means that Catholics have the obligation to attend mass on this day. Churches and cathedrals throughout the country hold special liturgical acts and processions in honor of the Virgin Mary.

It is common to see the faithful gather in churches with flowers and candles to pay homage to the Virgin Mary and offer prayers in her honor. In some localities in Chile , such as Copiapó , festivals and special activities are held to commemorate the feast of the Immaculate Conception.

The Immaculate Conception is an important belief within Catholicism and has been a subject of veneration and devotion throughout history. The Virgin Mary is considered an example of purity and virtue, and her immaculate conception is seen as a sign of her special role as the mother of Jesus Christ. In addition to its religious significance, the festival of the Immaculate Conception also marks the beginning of Christmas celebrations in Chile . It is a time when families come together and participate in various traditions and festivities that fill the country with joy and Christmas spirit.

Festival of the Virgin of Candelaria (December 8)

The Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria is a religious festival celebrated on December 8 in some towns in Chile , especially in the city of Copiapó . This celebration aims to honor the Virgin Mary under the invocation of the Virgen de la Candelaria, who is considered the patron saint of the city.

The festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria is one of the most deeply rooted and beloved traditions in Copiapó. During this day, the faithful gather in the local church to attend masses and special liturgical acts in honor of the Virgin. The streets are filled with color and music, and processions are carried out in which the image of the Virgen de la Candelaria is carried on a litter, adorned with flowers and lights.

The devotees show their fervor and devotion to the Virgin, offering prayers, singing hymns and bringing offerings such as candles and flowers. It is common for the faithful to take their sons and daughters dressed in typical costumes to pay homage to the Virgin and participate in the festivities.

The festivity of the Virgen de la Candelaria is an occasion to bring the community together and strengthen the ties between its inhabitants. It is a day in which faith and tradition are mixed with joy and celebration, creating a festive atmosphere full of emotions. In addition to its religious significance, the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria also has an important cultural component. In some localities, cultural and folkloric activities are carried out, such as typical dances and traditional music presentations, which add a special touch to the festivities.

Festival of the Lights (December 7 and 8)

In the city of Quillota, the Festival of Las Luminarias is celebrated, an ancient tradition that marks the beginning of Christmas in the region. Thousands of candles are lit in the streets and houses to illuminate the city, creating a magical and festive atmosphere.

The Novena of Christmas Bonuses (December 16 to 24)

The Novena de Aguinaldos in Chile is a Christmas festivity that is celebrated from December 16 to 24. This tradition combines religious and cultural elements and aims to prepare Chileans to celebrate Christmas, remembering the arrival of Baby Jesus.

During the nine days of the Strennas Novena, families and communities gather in homes, parishes or squares to pray, sing Christmas carols and share reflections and readings related to the birth of Jesus. Each day has a specific theme and focuses on different aspects of the meaning of Christmas.

Christmas bonuses, which are small gifts or gifts, are an important part of this celebration. After each day of prayers and songs, Christmas gifts are offered to attendees, such as sweets, fruits, candles or small Christmas souvenirs.

The Novena de Aguinaldos in Chile is an occasion for families and friends to get together and strengthen their affective ties. It is a moment of sharing, joy and hope, and each day of the novena is an opportunity to reflect on the family and religious values that make Christmas a special time.

The last day of the novena, December 24, is celebrated on Christmas Eve, which is one of the most important festivities in Chile . Families gather to share a festive dinner and attend the Christmas Eve Mass, where the birth of Jesus is celebrated.

Christmas Eve (December 24)

Christmas Eve is one of the most important festivities in Chile . Families gather to enjoy a special dinner and attend the Misa del Gallo, a midnight mass that marks the birth of Jesus.

Christmas is on the 25th of December)

Christmas Day is a holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus. Families enjoy special meals and share gifts and moments of joy.

New Year (December 31)

The arrival of the New Year is celebrated with parties and fireworks throughout the country. People gather to welcome the new year with joy and hope.