In this article, you’ll discover the official holiday dates, the origin of this celebration, and the most representative Chilean customs. You’ll also find a basic guide to traditional foods and the most popular fondas you can’t miss. Let’s get started!

What are the Fiestas Patrias in Chile?

September 18th commemorates the First National Government Board of 1810, the beginning of Chile’s independence process, a date that over time became a reason to celebrate.

September 19th is Army Day, marked throughout the country with military parades, ceremonies, and civic events.

It’s an opportunity to experience Chilean identity at its fullest. Everywhere you’ll see Chilean flags waving and hear the traditional cueca music.

These Fiestas Patrias also bring mandatory public holidays nationwide. In 2025, these dates fall on Thursday and Friday, and if you add the weekend, you have four straight days of celebration.

Traditions You Can’t Miss

In practice, Fiestas Patrias mean ramadas or fondas, the heart of the celebration. These venues offer typical Chilean food, live music, and space to dance. You’ll also find traditional games such as lotería (lotto), tug-of-war, sack races, and volantines (kites), a family favorite during these festivities.

The cueca, Chile’s national dance, is the main star. You’ll see couples dancing with handkerchiefs at fondas and town squares. Learning to dance it is part of the experience!

The Most Popular Fondas in Chile

If you’re in Santiago, the most traditional is La Fonda del Parque O’Higgins, featuring food, music, and family-friendly activities. In Valparaíso, head to Parque Alejo Barrios (Playa Ancha), where ocean views meet the festive vibe. Viña del Mar also hosts a fonda at the Sporting Club. In the south, Temuco stands out with a fonda famous for Mapuche gastronomy and folklore. In the north, Iquique offers ramadas with northern Chilean identity and Andean dances.

Guide to Chilean Traditional Foods

To make sure you don’t leave without tasting the classics, here’s a list of dishes you can’t miss:

1. Empanada de pino: A pastry filled with beef (ground or chopped), onion, olive, and egg, usually baked but sometimes fried. Salty and sweet versions exist—try both!

2. Anticuchos: Grilled skewers of meat, chicken, or pork with vegetables. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available.

3. Chilean asado: Barbecue is a must at fondas. Expect beef cuts, pork ribs, and sausages.

4. Choripán: A grilled chorizo sausage served in crusty bread, usually topped with pebre sauce. Usually served as an appetizer.

5. Terremoto: A typical alcoholic drink mixing pipeño wine, pineapple ice cream, and grenadine. Sweet yet strong.

6. Terremoto de niño: A kid-friendly version made with pineapple juice instead of wine.

7. Mote con huesillo: A non-alcoholic dessert drink made with cooked wheat and dried peaches, served cold—perfect for warmer days.

8. Pastel de choclo: A corn pie made with layers of ground corn seasoned with basil, plus chicken or beef, olives, and egg, baked until golden.

These are some of the main dishes you’ll see at fondas, but there’s more: cazuelas, cheese empanadas, sopaipillas, pebre, and the classic completo (Chilean hot dog).

Practical Tips

1. Book accommodation early. Fiestas Patrias are high season in Chile.

2. Carry cash. Some fondas don’t accept cards.

3. Wear comfortable clothes and get ready to dance cueca.

4. Use public transport in big cities. Traffic can be heavy during these dates.

5. September weather is unpredictable. In Santiago, temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C. Bring a jacket for the evening.

Holidays and Special Schedules During Fiestas Patrias

September 18 and 19 are mandatory holidays. This means most businesses close, including malls, supermarkets, banks, and schools. Restaurants and fondas stay open but expect big crowds.

Public transportation usually runs with extra services to accommodate the large number of people traveling to fondas.

If you visit Chile during Fiestas Patrias, get ready for an unforgettable experience. The festive atmosphere fills every corner of the country: music, cueca, fondas full of flavor and joy, and the warm hospitality that will make you feel at home.

September is also a great opportunity to explore vineyards and wineries in central Chile, where spring begins to color the landscapes. Enjoy the traditions, taste authentic Chilean cuisine, and don’t miss the chance to dance cueca.

Take advantage of these dates to connect with Chilean culture and discover why September is one of the best months to visit Chile.