Enjoying the Culture 171this day as Congress opens for a new session. The Mensaje
Presidencial recounts the achievements of the past year and
lays out the administration’s future plans for the country.
The speech is aired live on television and radio.
CATHOLIC FESTIVALS
Chilean society’s religious character also played a significant
part in the formation of the country’s traditions and culture.
Chile is a predominantly Catholic country and as such,
celebrates a number of religious holidays.
Semana Santa
Many Chileans attend church during Holy Week, which
culminates with Easter Sunday. Good Friday is an official
holiday and offices are closed. The week leading up to Easter
Sunday is a somber time for Christians and this is reflected
in the mood of the people. During Holy Week children pull
dolls representing Judas around the neighbourhood in little
carts. They visit houses asking for coins to symbolise the
money Judas received for betraying Jesus. At the end of the
day, the doll is burned.
Easter Sunday, however, is the holiest day for Catholics
and is a cause for rejoicing and celebration. Many Chileans
spend the day in their homes with their families after
attending religious services. Chileans of German decent
traditionally mark the day with Easter egg hunts. Recently
this custom has spread to the rest of society.
Festival de San Pedro
On 29 June, or the first Sunday following it, the tiny fishing
village of Horcón, about 150 km (93 miles) north of Santiago,
celebrates the festival of San Pedro (Saint Peter). All the
fishing boats, as well as the village, are gaily decorated.
Musical groups called chinos from Horcón and other nearby
villages dance in devotion to St Peter, while an image of the
patron saint of fishermen is carried around the bay. It is
believed that Saint Peter will bless them with bountiful fish
harvests. Similar festivities are held in Valparaíso and in many
other coves along the Chilean coast.