National Holidays 2025: 10 things you must try on your trip to Chile

During the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays) , Chile is enveloped in a festive atmosphere where music, dance, and above all, food play a leading role . This celebration, held every September 18th and 19th, commemorates the country's independence and is the most anticipated tradition for Chileans .

For travelers visiting the country during these days, especially during these 2025 National Holidays with a four-day long weekend, from Thursday, September 18th to Sunday, September 21st , the local gastronomy becomes an irresistible invitation to discover the most authentic flavors of Chilean culture .

Below, we present 10 dishes and drinks that you can't miss trying on your trip to Chile during the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays).

1. Empanada de pino, a must-try during the National Holidays

The empanada de pino is one of Chile's culinary icons, and during the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays), trying it is practically a must. This empanada, with its soft, golden crust, is filled with a flavorful pino, a mixture of ground beef, onions, olives, hard-boiled egg, and raisins . Each bite is an explosion of flavors that perfectly combines sweet and savory. At fondas (traditional Chilean food stalls) and ramadas (temporary structures for food stalls), the empanada de pino is the star, a favorite among both locals and tourists.

2. Roast beef and chorizo sandwich, always with pebre (a Chilean salsa).

Chilean barbecue is the king of outdoor celebrations during the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays). Families and friends gather around the grill to share cuts of meat like ribs, sausages, and the popular choripán, a delicious chorizo sandwich served with a generous portion of pebre, a sauce made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chili peppers . There's nothing more Chilean than enjoying a barbecue while listening to cueca music and sharing a glass of Chilean wine.

3. Earthquake

This boldly named drink is a classic and unmissable treat during the Chilean Independence Day celebrations. The terremoto is made with pipeño, a sweet white wine, combined with pineapple ice cream and a touch of grenadine . Its refreshing taste is deceptive, as it's quite potent. The name comes from the fact that after one, you'll feel like everything around you is shaking, just like an earthquake.

4. At the Fondas during the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays food stalls), there are always anticuchos (meat skewers).

Anticuchos are a grilled delicacy you absolutely must try during your trip to Chile. These skewers of beef, chicken, pork, or sausage, interspersed with pieces of onion and peppers , are one of the most popular snacks at fondas (traditional Chilean restaurants). They're served with a generous amount of pebre (a Chilean salsa) or ají (a spicy chili pepper sauce) for a touch of heat.

5. Mote con huesillos, the dessert for the National Holidays

Mote con huesillos is the quintessential refreshing dessert of the Fiestas Patrias (Chilean Independence Day celebrations). This sweet treat consists of a glass of mote de trigo (wheat groats) soaked in a syrup made from dried peaches, which gives it a sweet and fruity touch . It's the perfect drink for the hot days of September, with an ideal balance between the coolness of the syrup and the soft texture of the wheat.

6. Humitas

Chilean humitas are a true gem of traditional cuisine, prepared with freshly ground corn mixed with basil, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed . The result is a soft, creamy, and flavorful dish. They are often served with a fresh tomato salad or a touch of sugar, depending on whether you prefer them savory or sweet.

7. Curanto, a special dish from the south

If you travel to southern Chile during the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays), you can't miss curanto, a dish traditionally cooked in a pit in the ground lined with hot stones . This mix of seafood, meats, potatoes, milcaos (potato pancakes), and chapaleles (potato bread) is a true feast on your plate . Curanto, which can also be prepared in a pot, is not only delicious but also a cultural experience that reflects the oldest traditions of southern Chile, especially on the island of Chiloé.

8. Grape chicha

Grape chicha is a traditional beverage made from fermented grapes or apples , very popular during the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays). With its sweet and smooth flavor, chicha is one of the most emblematic drinks of this celebration and pairs perfectly with barbecues and empanadas.

9. Try Chilean wine during the National Holidays

Chile is world-renowned for the quality of its wines , and during the Fiestas Patrias (National Holidays), both red and white wine flow freely at all the celebrations . Varieties like Carmenere or Cabernet Sauvignon are ideal to accompany a good barbecue, while a crisp Sauvignon Blanc can be the perfect match for a meat-filled empanada. Take advantage of your visit to sample some of the best Chilean wines in this festive atmosphere.

10. The king of Chilean cuisine: Corn pie

Corn pie is a dish steeped in Chilean tradition. This delicious casserole is prepared with a layer of ground beef, chicken, and hard-boiled egg, topped with a creamy cornmeal mixture and baked in the oven until it develops a golden, crispy crust . It's a dish that perfectly combines sweet and savory flavors and is a favorite during the holidays.

Extra: The complete

A must-try any time of year, the Chilean completo is much more than just a hot dog ; it's a true institution in Chilean street food. It's served in a soft, elongated bun with a juicy sausage , but what truly sets it apart is its generous and flavorful topping . A traditional completo comes piled high with fresh chopped tomato, sauerkraut, creamy avocado, and homemade mayonnaise , giving it that irresistible touch.

You might also be interested in: Tips for your road trip through Chile during the National Holidays