Valdivia lights up every year with the Noche Valdiviana, celebrated during the last week of Februarythe first week of March, ending on the weekend. A festival that brightens up southern Chile.
Valdivia was nicknamed "the most beautiful" city by the Chileans themselves, and it celebrates the anniversary of its foundation on February 9. During that week, the city looked more beautiful than ever. Not only is a celebratory atmosphere palpable in the air, but also because various shows attract thousands of national and international tourists.
The epicenter of this party that bursts with music and fireworks takes place on the waterfront promenade and at Plaza de la República. Around 150,000 visitors wander between Schuster Pier and the Feria Fluvial (River Fair). They attend concerts and tour around the diverse stalls where they can purchase various handicrafts as souvenirs.
A Special Night
The last night of the Valdivian week is the most expected moment. Everyone gathers at the waterfront to appreciate the river corso (parade) and the fireworks show presented over the Calle Calle River. More than 40 boats parade with magnificent decorations made by neighborhood associations, companies, universities, and other institutions that compete to win the first prize.
The explosion of color and the unfurling of the vessels in the water dazzle all attendants who watch expectantly from the shore. This joyful night is quite different from that which gave origin to the celebration.
It goes back to the 16th century, when the settlers were not content with Governor García de Mendoza’s administration. He had deprived many neighbors of their lands, so they sailed along the river, setting fire to straw bales as a sign of protest. The demonstration was successful, the governor was deposed, and the boat parade has become a custom ever since.
As time went by, not only did the festival gain more glamour, but it also became the main event in the whole region. One date to bear in mind when deciding when to visit this picturesque city.
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