Holiday Traditions of Chile

"Merry Christmas"

In Chile, the Christmas season is often referred to as Pascua, the same word used for Easter, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted religious heritage. The festive season begins as early as a month before Christmas, with homes and streets adorned in colorful lights, garlands, and wreaths. A focal point of the decorations is the Árbol de Pascua (Christmas tree), which is often accompanied by a pesebre (nativity scene) depicting the birth of Jesus. You’ll also find decorations of Santa Claus, reindeer, elves, and even snowmen, adding a touch of winter charm to the summer season.

Advent and the Novena

As a predominantly Catholic nation, many Chileans observe the Advent season with devotion, preparing their hearts and homes for Christmas. One cherished tradition is the Novena, a series of nine church services held over the nine days leading up to Christmas. The Novena is a time for prayer, reflection, and community, bringing people together to celebrate the true spirit of the season.

On Christmas Eve, families attend a midnight mass known as the Misa de Gallo (Mass of the Rooster). The mass is named for its duration, as it often continues until the early hours of Christmas morning, when the rooster crows to herald the dawn of a new day.

Nochebuena – Christmas Eve Dinner

After the Misa de Gallo, families gather for a festive Christmas Eve dinner, or Nochebuena. The meal is a joyous occasion filled with delicious food and good company. A traditional Chilean Christmas dinner often features asado (barbecue) with roasted turkey, chicken, and Cazuela de Ave, a special chicken soup served with corn and potatoes. For dessert, families enjoy Pan de Pascua, a rich Christmas cake made with candied fruits and nuts, similar to the Italian Panettone.

Other popular treats include Cola de Mono (Monkey’s Tail), an alcoholic beverage made with coffee, milk, liquor, and cinnamon, which is similar to eggnog. Chileans also enjoy a refreshing Ponche de Chirimoya (Cherimoya Punch), Christmas cookies, and seasonal fruits like watermelon and grapes, which provide a fresh contrast to the hearty meal.

Viejito Pascuero – Chilean Santa Claus

In Chile, Santa Claus is known as Viejito Pascuero (Little Old Man of Christmas). On Christmas Eve, he rides around the world in his reindeer-pulled sleigh, delivering presents to good children. Viejito Pascuero parks his sleigh on rooftops, climbs down the chimney, and leaves gifts in stockings or under the Christmas tree. While some families wait until Christmas morning to open their gifts, others do so at midnight, filling their homes with joy and excitement.

Despite Christmas falling during the warm Chilean summer, Viejito Pascuero is still depicted wearing his traditional red and white robes. Many families take advantage of the sunny weather to celebrate Christmas Day at the beach, enjoying the sea, sand, and sun as part of their holiday festivities.

A Unique Blend of Faith and Celebration

Christmas in Chile is a unique blend of faith, family, and joyful celebration. The season is filled with cherished customs like the Novena and Misa de Gallo, delicious meals enjoyed on Nochebuena, and the anticipation of a visit from Viejito Pascuero. Whether celebrating at home or on the beach, Chileans embrace the warmth and joy of Christmas with open hearts, making it a special time of year for everyone.

Holiday Traditions in Chile

Video by Lifey

Traditional Chilean Holiday Recipes

Chilean holiday celebrations are filled with delicious dishes that highlight the country’s diverse culinary heritage. From savory roasts to sweet cakes and refreshing punches, these recipes are enjoyed by families across Chile during Christmas and New Year’s. Here are a few authentic Chilean recipes to try during the holiday season:

---

1. Pan de Pascua (Chilean Christmas Fruitcake)

Pan de Pascua is a traditional Chilean Christmas cake that resembles the Italian Panettone. It is a rich, spiced fruitcake made with dried fruits, nuts, and a touch of brandy, making it a holiday favorite across Chilean households.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1/2 cup chopped candied fruits (orange peel, cherries, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and brandy. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped nuts, raisins, dried apricots, and candied fruits until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan. Serve in slices, and enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

---

2. Cola de Mono (Monkey’s Tail Cocktail)

Cola de Mono, or Monkey’s Tail, is a traditional Chilean holiday drink similar to eggnog. It is made with coffee, milk, and a touch of aguardiente or pisco, giving it a distinctive flavor that’s perfect for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup brewed coffee
• 1 cup aguardiente or pisco (you can substitute with brandy or rum)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, coffee, sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, and the mixture is heated through.
2. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Discard the cinnamon stick and cloves.
3. Stir in the aguardiente (or other liquor) and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into a glass bottle or pitcher and refrigerate until well chilled, about 2-3 hours.
5. Serve cold in glasses, sprinkled with a dash of ground cinnamon on top. Enjoy!

---

3. Cazuela de Ave (Chicken and Vegetable Stew)

Cazuela de Ave is a hearty Chilean stew made with chicken, corn, potatoes, and other vegetables. It’s a popular dish for Christmas Eve dinners, offering warmth and comfort during the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 ears of corn, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup rice
• 1/2 cup chopped green beans
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes, carrots, and corn. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the rice, green beans, and peas. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.
7. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this traditional Chilean stew.

---

4. Ensalada a la Chilena (Chilean Tomato and Onion Salad)

Ensalada a la Chilena is a simple and refreshing salad made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It’s often served as a side dish during Christmas meals, providing a fresh contrast to the rich holiday dishes.

Ingredients:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the sliced onions in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 10 minutes to reduce their pungency. Drain and pat dry.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, onions, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Let the salad marinate for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish with your Christmas meal.

These recipes bring the flavors of Chile to your holiday table, offering a taste of traditional Chilean celebrations. Enjoy preparing and sharing these dishes with your loved ones!

---