Chile is a country of contrasts and natural riches, with a geography that ranges from the driest desert in the world in the north to ancient glaciers in the south. This geographical and biological diversity has generated great environmental awareness among its inhabitants, reflected in various festivals and celebrations that promote environmental conservation and sustainability. Below, we will explore some of the most notable ones.
1. Environment Day
World Environment Day, celebrated on June 5, is one of the most important environmental holidays in Chile. This day, established by the UN in 1974, seeks to raise awareness among the population about the importance of taking care of our planet. In Chile, various organizations, schools and local governments organize activities such as tree planting, cleaning days on beaches and parks, recycling workshops and environmental education. Community participation is essential, since it seeks to promote a culture of respect and care for the natural environment.
2. Tree Week
Tree Week is celebrated nationally during the month of June, coinciding with World Environment Day. This celebration is promoted by the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) and its main objective is to promote reforestation and conservation of Chile's native forests. During this week, tree planting campaigns are carried out, especially in urban and rural areas affected by deforestation. Schools also play a crucial role, with educational activities that seek to instill in children a love and respect for trees and forests.
3. Harvest Festival
The Harvest Festival is a traditional celebration that takes place in the wine-growing regions of Chile, especially in the Colchagua Valley, the Maipo Valley and the Casablanca Valley. Although this festival has a mainly cultural and tourist character, in recent years it has incorporated a strong environmental component. During the harvest, which occurs between March and April, various activities are carried out to promote sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation. Visitors can participate in the grape harvest, learn about the wine production process, and enjoy food fairs that highlight local and organic products.
4. Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
Celebrated on June 29, the Feast of Saints Peter and Saint Paul is a religious holiday that honors the patron saints of fishermen. In coastal towns such as Valparaíso, Coquimbo and Chiloé, maritime processions are organized, where boats decorated with flowers and flags carry images of the saints on a journey through the sea. This celebration also serves to raise awareness about the importance of the conservation of marine resources and sustainable fishing. Local organizations and fishing communities conduct workshops and educational activities on responsible fishing practices and the protection of marine ecosystems.
5. National Environment Day
On October 2, Chile celebrates its own National Environment Day, a date that seeks to complement the activities of World Environment Day. This day, various activities are carried out throughout the country, focused on promoting environmental education and citizen participation in environmental protection. Among the most common activities are environmental fairs, recycling workshops, educational talks and cleaning days in public spaces. The celebration also includes the presentation of awards and recognitions to people and organizations that have stood out for their work in environmental conservation.
6. Andean Carnival with the Force of the Sun
The Andean Carnival with the Force of the Sun is one of the largest and most colorful celebrations in northern Chile, which takes place in the city of Arica during the month of February. Although it is a festival with deep cultural and ancestral roots, in the last decade it has incorporated a strong component of environmental awareness. The carnival stands out for its traditional dances and music, but activities are also carried out to promote the protection of the highlands and its natural resources. Local environmental organizations take advantage of the massive influx of public to educate about the importance of the region's biodiversity and the need to preserve its ecosystems.
7. International Festival of Social Innovation (FIIS)
The FIIS is a relatively new event held in Santiago and other cities in Chile, and which seeks to promote innovation and creativity in the search for solutions to social and environmental problems. This festival, which takes place in November, brings together opinion leaders, entrepreneurs, artists and citizens interested in building a more sustainable and equitable world. During the FIIS, talks, workshops and activities are held that address topics such as climate change, the circular economy, recycling and renewable energy. In addition, the festival promotes sustainable practices in its organization, minimizing the use of plastics and properly managing waste.
8. Earth Day
Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, is a global holiday that also has an important echo in Chile. This day, activities are carried out throughout the country to promote environmental conservation and the fight against climate change. Non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and community groups organize events such as eco-walks, organic product fairs, composting workshops, and beach and river clean-ups. The goal is to raise awareness among the population about the need to protect our planet and adopt more sustainable practices in daily life.
9. Pampilla Festival
The Fiesta de la Pampilla is a traditional celebration that takes place in the Coquimbo region during the national holidays in September. Although it is known for its celebrations and recreational activities, in recent years it has incorporated a strong environmental dimension. Local authorities and environmental organizations have worked to reduce the ecological impact of the festival, promoting recycling, waste reduction and responsible use of water. Awareness campaigns are carried out among attendees, highlighting the importance of keeping the environment clean and protecting the region's natural resources.
10. Nature Film Festival (FICNAT)
FICNAT is a cinematographic event that is held in various locations in Chile, and whose main objective is to promote environmental conservation through cinema. This festival, usually held in October, presents documentaries and films that address topics related to nature, biodiversity and sustainability. In addition to the screenings, talks and workshops are organized with filmmakers, scientists and environmental activists, creating a space for reflection and discussion about the environmental challenges facing the country and the world.
11. National Cultural Heritage Day
Although not specifically an environmental celebration, National Cultural Heritage Day, celebrated on the last Sunday in May, includes activities that highlight the relationship between Chile's natural and cultural heritage. During this day, various sites of historical and natural interest are open to the public, such as national parks, nature reserves, and historical monuments. This celebration allows citizens to know and value their natural environment, understanding the importance of conserving it for future generations.
12. Garden Festival
The Huerta Festival is a celebration that takes place in various rural communities in Chile, especially in the central and southern areas of the country. This festival is celebrated on different dates depending on the region and local harvests. Its goal is to promote sustainable agriculture, organic food production and the conservation of native seeds. During the festival, attendees can participate in organic farming workshops, seed exchanges, and local agricultural product fairs. Cultural and recreational activities are also carried out that highlight the importance of connection with the land and respect for the environment.
13. Science and Technology Week
Science and Technology Week, organized by Conicyt's Explora Program, is celebrated in October and aims to foster curiosity and interest in science among young Chileans. Although it covers various scientific disciplines, this week includes numerous activities related to the environment and sustainability. Workshops on biology, chemistry and physics applied to environmental conservation, exhibitions on biodiversity, and talks by scientists and experts on environmental issues are part of the activities carried out. This celebration seeks to educate new generations about the importance of science in protecting the environment.
14. National Parks Day
On September 30, Chile celebrates National Parks Day, a date dedicated to recognizing the importance of protected areas and the conservation of biodiversity. On this day, the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) organizes activities in national parks throughout the country, such as guided walks, educational workshops and volunteer days. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of these areas, as well as the conservation initiatives being carried out. This celebration seeks to promote responsible tourism and appreciation of Chile's natural resources.
15. Transhumance Festival
The Transhumance Festival is a celebration that takes place in the Andes region and other rural areas of Chile, where local communities practice transhumance, a seasonal grazing tradition. This festival, which is celebrated on different dates depending on the region, highlights the relationship between traditional agricultural practices and environmental conservation. During the festival, activities such as grazing demonstrations, fairs of local products and workshops on sustainable agriculture techniques are carried out. Transhumance is a practice that contributes to the conservation of grasslands and biodiversity, and this celebration seeks to keep this tradition alive while promoting sustainability.
Environmental festivals and celebrations in Chile are a manifestation of the deep connection that its inhabitants have with nature and the growing awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. Through these festivities, citizen participation is encouraged, new generations are educated, and sustainable practices that contribute to the conservation of natural resources are promoted. Chile, with its rich biodiversity and unique landscapes, continues to be an example of how culture and tradition can be integrated with environmental protection to achieve a more sustainable future.