Chile: Military parade closes official independence events

Santiago, Chile, Sep 19 (Prensa Latina) The three branches of the Chilean Armed Forces are participating on Friday in the traditional military parade to pay tribute to the army that participated in the struggles for independence from the Spanish crown.

September 19, 2025
10:36

There are at least two versions regarding the origin of this ceremony.

The first of which points to the parade of cavalry companies and dragoons in Santiago’s Arms Square (Plaza de Armas) on September 19, 1810, the day after the first Governing Body was formed.

The second one indicates the victorious Chacabuco Battle on February 12, 1817, and the founding of the Military Academy by then Supreme Director Bernardo O’Higgins, on March 16 of that year.

Then-President Joaquin Prieto ordered in 1831 to hold a mock battle every year on September 19 in La Pampilla, now O’Higgins Park, a practice that continued until 1895.

The president also determined in 1832 that this event should become an official state ceremony.

This Friday, President Gabriel Boric will review the troops, observe the parade, and drink chicha, a traditional grape-based beverage served in a cow’s horn, thus concluding the formal events for Chile’s Independence.

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