When will the first holiday of 2026 be in Chile?
The first holiday of 2026 in Chile will be on Thursday, January 1st , the day we celebrate New Year's Day . This day marks the official start of the Chilean holiday calendar and ushers in a new cycle filled with traditions, family gatherings, and time off from work.
In Chile, this day is a non-waivable holiday , which means that commerce and services must suspend their activities, with the exception of some essential sectors such as gas stations or pharmacies.
This first break of the year is an ideal opportunity to plan short trips or family getaways , especially considering that 2026 begins with an extended weekend for those who take Friday the 2nd as a day off.
Meaning of the New Year's holiday in Chile
January 1st not only represents the change of year on the calendar, but also a time of reflection and hope. In Chile, New Year's is one of the most anticipated celebrations, marked by family gatherings, special dinners, and fireworks in different regions of the country.
Cities like Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, and Santiago offer fireworks displays and massive concerts, while in more rural areas, the custom of welcoming the new year with family rituals and traditional dishes like barbecue and empanadas continues.
The tradition also includes popular rituals such as:
Eat 12 grapes when the bells ring.
Walk around the block with a suitcase to attract trips.
Wear yellow clothing to attract good luck.
These customs reflect the blend of folklore, beliefs, and collective joy that characterizes the beginning of the year in the country.
How to take advantage of the first holiday of the year
The first holiday of 2026 falls right at the start of the summer season, so many Chilean families take advantage of this date to start their vacations or take short getaways.
Some ideas to enjoy it:
Coastal getaways: visit beaches like La Serena, Maitencillo or Pichilemu.
Rural tourism: discover wine routes or heritage towns, such as Curicó or Santa Cruz.
Nature and relaxation: camping or exploring national parks such as Conguillío or Radal Siete Tazas.
How many holidays will Chile have in 2026?
According to the government's projected calendar, Chile will have more than 20 holidays during 2026 , including several long weekends and religious and national celebrations.
Among the most anticipated are:
Good Friday and Holy Saturday (April 3 and 4).
National Holidays (September 17-20).
Christmas (Thursday, December 25).
What activities can be done during the New Year 2026
In addition to the traditional fireworks, many communities organize cultural and recreational activities to see out the new year. Among the most notable:
Fireworks show in Valparaíso , one of the largest in South America.
Musical events and outdoor parties in Santiago, Viña del Mar, and La Serena.
Family-friendly activities in the Lake District with food fairs and local celebrations.
It's also an ideal time to visit less crowded natural areas, such as the lakes of southern Chile or the Atacama Desert , where clear skies allow for the spectacle of fireworks and stars.
How the holiday will be celebrated in different regions of the country
Each area of the country has its own way of welcoming the new year:
Northern Zone: Outdoor celebrations and beach parties predominate, especially in Iquique and Antofagasta.
Central Zone: Valparaíso and Viña del Mar have the most spectacular views, but there are also quieter options in the Elqui Valley or the Maipo Canyon.
Southern Zone: Highlights include family traditions, dinners featuring local produce, and traditional festivals in Pucón and Puerto Varas.