Google Doodle Celebrates the Chile National Holidays

Today’s doodle celebrates a Chilean national holiday. On this day in 1810, Chile established the Primera Junta de Gobierno (First Congress), a step towards independence from Spain that sparked the independence movement.

Parties and parades are held across the country to kick off days of celebrations known as Fiestas Patrias. Tomorrow is Army Glory Day, with a large military parade, but today’s smaller parade features huasos (Chilean cowboys) wearing Chamantos (ponchos) and wide-brimmed round hats.

Many people attend barbecues and large outdoor parties called fondas, where traditional foods and drinks such as empanadas and chichas are served. Dances such as the cueca are often performed to accompany the music. Another festive sight during the holiday is the blue, white and red Chilean flag flying from houses and marquees and decorating the sky in the form of kites.

Happy National Holiday, Chile!