When visiting Chile in September, you will always hear about preparations for the “Dieciocho” (Eighteen). Posters invite you to events and Chilean flags flutter on every house and building. Every year on September 18th, Chile’s independence from Spain is celebrated extensively during the “Fiestas Patrias”, which take place a few days before and after the official holiday.
During the Fiestas Patrias, many Chileans are dressed in traditional clothing, especially the huasos, the Chilean cowboys. The Huasos’ clothing includes wide-brimmed hats, ponchos and high-slit trousers. The highlight of the festivities is often the performance of the cueca, Chile’s national dance, performed by couples in traditional costumes.