Independence Day In Chile

Youths celebrate Independence Day in Chile with traditional dances. Here in the square in Calama.

Chile officially declared its independence from Spain on February 12, 1818, but for some convoluted historic reason celebrates it in September. If you’d like to read every twist and turn, check out Wikipedia. Suffice to say all of Chile is awash in red, white and blue, and the flags are everywhere. Of course, big celebrations are planned for the capital, Santiago. Everybody’s in a festive mood.

These women have been dancing these traditional Chilean dances together for the last 35 years.

Viva Chile! Vivaaaaaaa!