Chilean Holidays

Chileans have several official holidays during the year. Some are the product of Chile's history and others are based on Catholic celebrations.

Chile's Annual Holidays:

January 1: New Year's Day: Chile welcomes in the new year with the rest of the world.
March or April: Easter and Holy Week: Traditional Christian holidays celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ
May 1: Labor Day or Day of the Worker: Celebrate economic and social contributions of workers.
May 21: Navy Day: Commemorates the great naval battle of Iquique and other naval victories
June 29: Saint Peter and Saint Paul: Catholic feast celebrating these saints
July 16: Fiesta de la Virgin del Carmen:: Feast celebrated by Catholics
August 15: Assumption of Mary: Catholic holiday remembering Mary's passage to heaven
September 18: Independence Day: Chile officially proclaimed independence from Spain on February 12, 1818. Nevertheless, Chileans celebrate their independence September 18th with the Fiestas Patrias.
September 19: Armed Forces Day: Honors the military and their past victories
October 12: Columbus Day (Day of the Race): Remembers day Columbus arrived in the Americas
November 1: All Saints Day: Catholic holiday celebrating all saints and martyrs
December 8: Immaculate Conception: Catholic holiday remembering the virgin Mary
December 25: Christmas Day: Christmas in Chile brings Santa, family time, and fun.