What to Do During Chile's Independence Day Celebrations: Things to Do and Places to Visit

Are you visiting Chile during the Fiestas Patrias? Plan your days with these recommendations. 

Chile’s National Holidays are one of the best opportunities to experience the country’s culture, cuisine, and traditions. Every September, cities come alive with music, dancing, traditional foods, and celebrations.

For first-time visitors to Chile, this holiday is a chance to get to know the country better. The famous fondas let you mingle with locals and experience some of the country’s most authentic customs.

But the celebrations aren’t limited to Santiago. You can also travel to the coast, explore historic cities, or discover new destinations. In this blog post, you’ll learn about the main attractions to help you plan your stay during Chile’s National Holidays.

What Are Chile’s Fiestas Patrias?

Fiestas Patrias in Chile commemorate events related to the country’s path to independence. On September 18, the First National Government Junta of 1810 was established. For this reason, September 19 is Army Glory Day. This date is also marked by the traditional Military Parade in Santiago, a parade that brings families together. 

In 2026, September 18 will fall on a Friday and September 19 on a Saturday. Both are mandatory holidays that most businesses must observe. Therefore, if you’re visiting Chile in September, we recommend that you plan your transportation, lodging, and activities in advance, as most businesses tend to close on this day. 

Visit a fonda and experience Chilean traditions

One of the best answers to the question of what to do during Chile’s Independence Day celebrations is to visit a fonda. Fondas are spaces specially set up for celebrations in September. There you’ll find local cuisine, live music, traditional games, and folk dances.

The cueca takes center stage. It’s Chile’s national dance and is often performed during the celebrations. You can also sample traditional dishes like empanadas, anticuchos, choripanes, and asados. Among the typical drinks you can try is the “terremoto,” traditionally made with pipeño wine and pineapple ice cream. For travelers, a fonda is a great way to experience the traditions of Chile’s Fiestas Patrias in a festive atmosphere. These places usually stay open very late into the early morning. 

What to Do in Santiago During Fiestas Patrias

Santiago is one of the top places to enjoy Fiestas Patrias in Chile. Throughout September, celebrations take place in different neighborhoods across the capital.

O’Higgins Park is usually one of the main gathering spots. Its celebrations include food, music, crafts, shows, and traditional activities.

You can also take advantage of your visit to explore other popular spots in the capital, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Cerro San Cristóbal, and the Museum of Fine Arts, among others. During this time of year, another option is to take a day trip to the surrounding areas, and if you’re a fan of wine country, you can visit vineyards. 

If you’re looking to combine several destinations, the Santiago, Cajón del Maipo, and Valparaísoitinerary includes tours of the capital, the mountains, and the central coast.

Explore Valparaíso and Viña del Mar

The Valparaíso Region is another excellent option for those looking for things to do during Chile’s Independence Day celebrations, not only because of its traditional fondas but also because both cities are home to historic sites rich in architecture and urban art. 

In Valparaíso, the largest “fonda” takes place at Playa Ancha in Alejo Barrios Park. You can get there by car or public transportation.

Viña del Mar also offers activities during this time of year, all centered at the Sporting. Here you’ll find “fondas,” games for children, and live shows. 

From Santiago, you can reach both cities by road. The trip to Valparaíso or Viña del Mar takes about an hour and a half, although there’s usually more traffic during this time of year, so try to avoid traveling on Friday afternoons. 

Discover Other Destinations During the Fiestas Patrias

The celebrations also extend to other regions of the country. So, where to go during Chile’s Fiestas Patrias will depend on the kind of experience you’re looking for.

In Coquimbo, the Fiesta de La Pampilla stands out as one of the country’s largest traditional celebrations, taking place from September 18 to 20. While you’re there, you can visit the Elqui Valley, one of the country’s astronomical capitals. 

If you prefer a different setting, you can travel to San Pedro de Atacama in the Antofagasta Region. Thanks to the heavy winter rains, you’ll be able to enjoy the Flowering Desert, as well as various tours to explore it. From Santiago, you can fly to Calama and continue by road to San Pedro de Atacama. 

If you’re interested in this destination, check out our tour to San Pedro de Atacama—it includes visits to the Valley of the Moon, Piedras Rojas, the Altiplanic Lagoons, the Atacama Salt Flat, and the Tatio Geysers. Don’t miss it! 

On the other hand, if you prefer cooler climates, visiting cities like Valdivia and Puerto Varas is also a great experience, since rain isn’t usually a hindrance to celebrating the Fiestas Patrias. There’s something for everyone!

What to Eat and Drink During the Fiestas Patrias

Cuisine is essential to understanding what to do in Chile during the Fiestas Patrias. Among the most popular dishes are empanadas de pino; there are even blind taste-testing competitions to determine which city has the best empanada. 

We always recommend trying an empanada de pino, though anticuchos, choripanes, grilled meats, and various traditional sides—such as pebre for savory dishes and chilenitos (a type of alfajor)—are also highlights.

At the fondas, you can also find traditional drinks. The “terremoto” is one of the best-known among visitors, though there’s also a non-alcoholic option for children. 

Tips for Tourists During Fiestas Patrias

Before traveling, keep in mind that business hours and service availability may change during the holidays. September 18 and 19 are mandatory, non-waivable holidays for retail workers, although there are some exceptions. 

Restaurants, entertainment venues, airports, gas stations, and other services may remain open.

Book accommodations and tours in advance. Demand may increase during this period. It’s also a good idea to bring cash, since while some food stalls accept cards, not all vendors necessarily have electronic payment options.

Finally, factor in travel times. Roads may experience heavier traffic due to intercity travel.

The Fiestas Patrias are an opportunity fortourists in Chile to experience the country from a different perspective. You can enjoy a fonda in Santiago, explore Valparaíso, or travel north or south.

The key is to combine traditional celebrations with the tourist attractions of each destination. That way, you can make the most of your time in Chile and gain a deeper understanding of its culture.