New Year's Eve in Chile: what to do in Santiago

The capital combines emblematic spaces, free activities and cultural events ideal for locals and visitors. The city is transformed during the night of December 31.

From parks and hills to cultural centers, Santiago offers plans for different tastes and ages. Many of them are free, with views of the best fireworks.

This year one of the most beloved panoramas by the santiaguinos returns, the Entel Tower. In the following blog you will learn about the best panoramas to welcome the new year 2026.

Entel Tower to welcome the New Year in Santiago

One of the most traditional spots is the Entel Tower, located in downtown Santiago. This place gathers thousands of people, and this December 31 will again delight the community. They promise more than 7 thousand fireworks, which will last approximately 15 minutes.

The sector offers live music, screens and animation before midnight. Different Chilean artists will perform on stage, among them, Princesa Alba, Americo, La Noche.

It is one of the most popular urban events in the country.

From different viewpoints of the hill, you can observe the festive atmosphere of Santiago during New Year's Eve.

Free panoramas to celebrate New Year's Eve

Santiago stands out for offering free panoramas to celebrate the New Year at no cost. Many events are organized by municipalities.

The communes usually prepare shows with music, animation and family activities during the afternoon and evening. Urban parks such as Parque O'Higgins or Parque Quinta Normal usually host recreational activities prior to the celebration.

These spaces allow to enjoy the outdoors, share with the family and live a safe and festive atmosphere.

The free events are ideal for tourists looking for local and accessible experiences during their visit.

Live shows and musical performances

Live shows are a fundamental part of the New Year in Santiago. Music sets the rhythm of the celebration.

Urban stages host bands, soloists and DJs that liven up the wait until midnight. In downtown areas, the shows usually include Chilean music and Latin rhythms for all audiences. Cultural centers and municipal squares also organize artistic presentations and family shows.

These activities allow you to enjoy local talent in a festive and participatory atmosphere.

Shows and ticketed parties

In Santiago, more and more people are choosing paid parties to welcome the New Year, looking for something more than just dancing until the wee hours of the morning. These celebrations stand out for offering complete experiences, where a single ticket can include drinks, live music or DJs, cotillion and themed environments.

They are the ideal option for those who want to say goodbye to the year with comfort, good energy and without worrying about the organization, just to enjoy and toast for what is to come. Below you will find some of the most popular parties, with prices for all budgets.

HOLA 2026 party: Caupolicán Theater

1. Great party with 6 atmospheres, DJs, drag queens and lounge areas.

2. Until 09:00 hrs on January 1st.

3. Venue: Caupolicán Theater, Downtown Santiago.

Vive 2026: Hipódromo Chile

1. Massive party with live music (Jairo Vera, Gino Mella and Combo Tortuga) and DJs.

2. For people over 18 years old.

3. Place: Hipódromo Chile, Independencia.

Adrenalina 2026 - Matucana 100 Cultural Center

1. Outdoor party with dance floor, bars and cotillion.

2. General admission and at the door with value.

3. Venue: Matucana 100.

New Year Kitsch: Dancing at the Palace, Club de la Unión

1. Themed party with DJ, dance floor and special spaces.

2. Tickets presale and at the door.

3. Venue: Club de la Unión, downtown Santiago.

Reload 2026: Club Hípico

1. Party with 4 environments (Main Stage, Garden Tech, VIP, Retro Dance).

2. VIP sectors available.

3. Venue: Club Hipico, Santiago.

4. General and VIP tickets.

Open Rabbit 2026: Hindustan Palace

1. Party with different atmospheres and DJs, electronic and live music.

2. Paid admission with pre-sale and general admission.

3. Venue: Hindustan Palace, Downtown Santiago.

Viewpoints and outdoor spaces

Santiago has several natural viewpoints to celebrate the New Year with privileged views. Cerro Santa Lucía is one of the most visited spaces due to its central location and heritage value.

Other island hills, such as Cerro Renca, offer wide panoramic views of the city at night. These places are ideal for those who prefer a quiet, open-air celebration. It is recommended to arrive in advance and respect the safety rules of the place.

Gastronomy and neighborhoods with a festive atmosphere

Santiago's gastronomic neighborhoods come alive on New Year's Eve. Restaurants and cafes offer special dinners. Sectors such as Lastarria, Bellavista and Barrio Italia concentrate culinary proposals and nightlife. Many places incorporate live music and celebrations until the early hours of the morning. These neighborhoods combine culture, gastronomy and urban life in a single tour. They are an attractive option for tourists who want to celebrate in a lively and safe environment.

Recommendations for enjoying New Year's Eve in Santiago

December 31 is usually chaotic, so we give you some tips to enjoy the last day of the year:

1. Planning ahead allows you to better enjoy New Year's Eve in Santiago.

2. Check official schedules and locations of the event or activity you are going to do.

3. Use public transportation or share transfers to facilitate mobility during the night.

4. Prefer comfortable clothes. High temperatures are expected for this day, above 30 degrees, so try to dress accordingly.

5. Respect public spaces and follow the established safety indications.

Celebrating responsibly contributes to a positive experience for everyone.

New Year's Eve in Santiago: a unique urban experience

Welcoming the New Year in Santiago is an opportunity to experience the city from a festive and cultural perspective.

The capital offers free panoramas, live shows and emblematic spaces for all tastes. Its diversity of neighborhoods, parks and urban scenarios allows you to celebrate in multiple ways.

New Year's Eve in Santiago combines tradition, modernity and citizen encounters. It is an ideal experience to start the year exploring the urban heart of Chile.