Many Latin American countries celebrate their independence during the month of September, and Chile is no exception. Chilean Independence Day is on the 18th. Traditionally, however, Chileans celebrate all month long, making this national holiday the perfect excuse to drink plenty of wine and eat lots of empanadas.

There's good reason to extend the commemoration throughout the month. Not only is September the month that Chile declared its independence from Spain, but it's also the month that welcomes spring. Everyone is ready to leave the grey, cold, winter behind and start enjoying Chile's wonderful Mediterranean weather and the seasonal fruits and vegetables that are the key ingredients to Chile's favorite traditional dishes. Thus, as we Californians say good bye to fresh tomatoes and peaches, in Chile la fête is just beginning.

Las Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day festivities) are celebrated dancing La Cueca--Chile's folk dance, drinking lots of wine, and eating empanadas at traditional ramadas. Ramadas are makeshift shelters constructed with branches specifically for the festivities.

To get a better idea of what a ramada looks like, see my dear friend and talented photographer Pedro G. Troncoso's photo, just below.