National Day of Indigenous Peoples

The **National Day of Indigenous Peoples** in Chile is a public holiday celebrated annually on **June 24th**, coinciding with the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. This day honors the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and contributions of Chile's indigenous peoples, including the Mapuche, Aymara, Rapa Nui, Quechua, and other native communities. The holiday was officially established in 2021 to recognize the historical and cultural significance of indigenous peoples in shaping Chilean identity. The date aligns with the **We Tripantu** (Mapuche New Year), a key celebration for the Mapuche people, marking the renewal of nature and the start of a new agricultural cycle. Festivities often include traditional ceremonies, music, dance, and rituals that reflect the spiritual connection between indigenous communities and the land. The day also serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges indigenous peoples face, such as land rights, cultural preservation, and social inequality. The National Day of Indigenous Peoples underscores Chile's commitment to fostering respect, inclusion, and dialogue with its indigenous populations, celebrating their enduring legacy and vital role in the nation's history and future.