Welcome to celebrate the “Fiestas Patrias” of Chile today and tomorrow!
“Fiestas Patrias” means Patriotic Festivities.
September 18 is the commemoration of the proclamation of the First Governing Body of 1810, and marks the beginning of the Chilean independence process.
September 19 is known as the “Day of the Glories of the Army”. It is celebrated with a military parade.
Within Chile the Fiestas Patrias are often referred to as the Dieciocho, or “18th” because the celebration occurs on September 18.
Unofficially, the celebration can last for around a week, depending on when it falls (for example, if the 18th is a Wednesday, celebrations extend from Saturday the 14th, through Sunday the 22nd). It is held close to the spring equinox of the Southern Hemisphere so it doubles as a spring festival. Chile’s Declaration of Independence happened on February 12.
Most schools and jobs declare a week-long vacation for the Dieciocho.
So find a good “ramada” (tabernacle) and go dance a joyous “cueca” (national dance) with a good looking Chilean.