Chile, a country of rich cultural and natural diversity, celebrates a variety of festivities throughout the year. Each holiday offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the country's culture, traditions and natural beauty.
New Year 1st of January)
Valparaíso and its fireworks show:
Valparaíso is famous for its spectacular fireworks show that illuminates the port and its hills. Thousands of people gather on the coast to welcome the New Year with a show that lasts approximately 20 minutes.
Festivals and celebrations in Santiago:
In Santiago, the main hotels and nightclubs organize themed parties. Parks and squares are also popular for celebrating with friends and family.
New year dinner:
Chilean families usually celebrate with a special dinner that includes traditional dishes such as roast, salads, and desserts such as mille-leaf cake.
Holy Week (Variable date, March or April)
Visit to Easter Island:
During Holy Week, many tourists choose to visit Easter Island, known for its moais and rich Rapa Nui culture. Religious ceremonies and local festivities offer a unique experience.
Religious processions:
In cities such as Santiago, Valparaíso and La Serena, special processions and masses are held. These ceremonies are a way to experience the country's deep spirituality and Catholic tradition.
Trip to national parks:
Take advantage of the long weekend to explore Chile's national parks, such as Torres del Paine National Park or Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.
Labor Day (May 1)
Marches and demonstrations:
In Santiago and other major cities, marches and demonstrations are held in honor of workers' rights. Participating or simply observing is a way to better understand Chile's labor history.
Museum visits:
Take advantage of your free day to visit museums such as the Museum of Memory and Human Rights in Santiago, which offers an in-depth perspective on Chile's recent history.
Outdoor activities:
Have a picnic in the Metropolitan Park of Santiago or a walk in the Andean foothills to enjoy nature.
Day of Naval Glories (May 21)
Parades and ceremonies:
Parades and commemorative ceremonies are held in Valparaíso, headquarters of the Chilean Navy. Attending these events is a way to honor the memory of Chilean naval heroes.
Visit to maritime museums:
The Naval and Maritime Museum in Valparaíso offers a detailed insight into Chile's naval history and is a must-see on this day.
Coastal exploration:
Take advantage of the day to explore the Chilean coast, from Viña del Mar to Concón, enjoying its beaches and marine cuisine.
Saint Peter and Saint Paul's Day (Variable date, June)
Religious festivals in Chiloé:
In the Chiloé archipelago, religious festivals are celebrated in honor of San Pedro, the patron saint of fishermen. Processions at sea and traditional fairs are part of the tradition.
Visit to heritage churches:
Chiloé is known for its wooden churches, many of them World Heritage Sites. Visiting these churches is a great way to appreciate the local architecture and culture.
Typical gastronomy:
Try traditional dishes such as curanto, a stew of seafood, meat and vegetables cooked in a hole in the ground with hot stones.
National Holidays (September 18-19)
Funds and ramadas:
Throughout the country, inns and ramadas are set up, places where cueca is danced, typical food is eaten and traditional games are enjoyed. O'Higgins Park in Santiago is one of the main celebration points.
Military Parade:
The military parade in Parque O'Higgins is one of the main attractions. Attending this event is a way to feel Chilean patriotism at its best.
Excursions and outdoor activities:
The National Holidays are an excellent opportunity to go on excursions, camp or visit vineyards in the Colchagua Valley, enjoying the beginning of spring in Chile.
Columbus Day (October 12)
Cultural events:
In Santiago and other cities, events and exhibitions are held that celebrate the cultural and ethnic diversity of Chile. Museums and cultural centers often organize special activities.
Historical exploration:
Visit historical sites such as the La Moneda Cultural Center or the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art to better understand Chile's indigenous history and heritage.
Tourism in indigenous communities:
Take a trip to Mapuche communities in the La Araucanía Region to learn about their traditions, crafts and gastronomy.
All Saints' Day (November 1)
Visit to cemeteries:
Chilean families often visit cemeteries to honor their deceased. The General Cemetery in Santiago is a place full of history and architecture that is worth exploring.
Masses and ceremonies:
Catholic churches throughout the country celebrate special masses in memory of saints and the dead. Attending these ceremonies is a way to participate in Chilean religious traditions.
Spiritual retirement:
Consider a spiritual retreat at a monastery or meditation center to reflect and find inner peace.
Christmas is on the 25th of December)
Living mangers:
In various cities and towns, living nativity scenes are organized that represent the birth of Jesus. Participating or attending these events is a way to experience Christmas as a community.
Christmas Eve Masses:
Churches celebrate Midnight Mass on the night of December 24. These masses are well attended and offer a profound spiritual experience.
Family celebrations:
Christmas in Chile is mainly a family celebration. Dinners include typical dishes such as turkey, salads, and the classic Easter bread.
New Year (December 31)
New Year's Eve dinner:
Similar to New Year's dinner, New Year's Eve is celebrated with a big family dinner. Chileans also have the custom of eating 12 grapes at midnight, one for each bell, making a wish for each one.
Events and parties:
In addition to fireworks, clubs and bars organize themed parties. In Santiago, places like Bellavista and Vitacura are popular for partying.
Good luck rituals:
Chileans have several traditions to attract good luck, such as walking around the block with a suitcase to travel during the next year, or putting money in shoes to attract prosperity.
When planning your next visit to Chile, consider participating in these activities to experience the best of Chilean traditions.