There is no date that unites Chileans more than Fiestas Patrias, which commemorates the anniversary of the start of the country’s independence process with traditional food and drinks, dancing, and many other traditions.
Read on and discover the traditions that make us unique!
1. Fondas in Chile for your enjoyment
Going to the fondas is an essential plan for celebrating Fiestas Patrias in Chile. These are spacious venues where people gather to share food, activities, and live shows.
Every region has its iconic fondas and ramadas. In Santiago, the largest are those at Parque O’Higgins. You can’t miss them!
On our sister site, Chile es Tuyo, you’ll find more information about the Chilean fondas taking place across the country. Click here.
2. Dance a round of cueca and feel like a local
Nothing is more traditional than dancing a round of cueca during Fiestas Patrias. You don’t need to be an expert, as a handkerchief is all you’ll need to show off your footwork and impress your partner in Chile’s traditional dance.
The cueca isn’t the only star during the “dieciochero” festivities. Cumbia is also frequently danced during the parties, where people enjoy its catchy rhythms and cheerful melodies.
3. Empanada de pino: a gastronomic delight
The delicious empanada de pino consists of a thin, baked bread dough filled with meat, onion, egg, olives, and optionally raisins, depending on each person’s taste. While its consumption increases during Fiestas Patrias, it is a common meal for Chileans throughout the year.
There are other dishes you can’t miss. Cazuela, porotos con rienda, mote con huesillo, and anticucho are part of the gastronomic variety you’ll find during the celebrations.
And if you’re in the mood for a drink, you can’t pass up Chilean wine, chicha, or the potent drink known as the “terremoto” if you’re looking for something stronger.
4. Test your skills with traditional Chilean games
Rayuela consists of throwing a metal puck (tejo) onto a 1×1 meter inclined box, aiming to hit a line drawn in chalk. Players stand 14 meters away and take turns throwing, scoring points as they get closer to the line.
The greased pole, tug-of-war, or the emboque are other fun traditional Chilean games enjoyed during Fiestas Patrias.
5. The thrill of flying a kite
Thousands of Chileans head out to fly kites during Fiestas Patrias, taking advantage of the pleasant winds that arrive with spring.
It’s an ideal activity to practice as a family, so staying responsible is fundamental.
You should never use “hilo curado” (abrasive string) and you must stay away from power lines. You should also never try to retrieve kites that have become stuck in dangerous places like cables or treetops to avoid accidents.
