As I mentioned in my last blog, the entire week surrounding September 18th, Chilean Independence Day, is completely filled with celebrations of every type from everyone. I was lucky enough to be able to share these celebrations with my host family and friends, and I would love to share some of them with you via photos I took!
The first celebration was on September 17th, where the fishermen killed two birds with one stone by having a massive fish fry to offset the losses of the month (they aren’t allowed to fish hake during September because it’s mating season), and to celebrate Independence Day in a totally unique way! Right down by the docks, every group of fishermen had their own frying station and cranked out HUGE amounts of fried fish, surrounded by an atmosphere of live music and general happiness.
All the people who came out to celebrate at the fish fry! 
One of the many frying stations set up by the fishermen 
The fried fish that was served at the fish fry!
The 18th is more of a family holiday, and most people grill at home and celebrate with a lot of meat: beef, chorizo sausage, chicken, everything really. It was so great to get to know the rest of my host family, and spend time with them!
One of the most typical ways to celebrate Chilean Independence Day is by going down to the fondas, which are basically fairs with food, rides, games, dancing, and loud music. If you listen to the video, you can hear some real Chilean spirit!
A man wandering around the fondas with a street organ, and lots of sweets and toys to sell 
The massive crowd at the fonda (it was the second to last day in the afternoon, too!) 
One of the game stands, decked out with patriotic decorations