Chilean traditional rodeo was declared the national sport in 1962 and there is a big difference between Chilean rodeo and the one found in North America.
Instead of the usual spectacle of a frantic rider trying to tie a rebellious bull with ropes, the goal of local rodeos is pinning a cow to the arena's wall while riding a horse. Participants of Chile's rodeos are Chilean cowboys called Huasos. They traditionally wear national clothes for the competition and perform the task in pairs. Though it might sound simple, the cows are not so easy to be caught even by a couple of experienced cowboy riders: for every successful move the competing pair earns extra points, but when a cow escapes, participants lose points. The game is particularly popular in the Chilean countryside, the season begins in early September and lasts until late March, and the kick-off event is usually a big party with lots of traditional food and dance. A high number of rodeo championships is held on Chilean national day which falls on the 18th of September as well as other public holidays.
The first Chilean rodeos took place in the Plaza de Armas of Santiago. These rodeos would place a lot of tension on the huasos that participated and would often last for days. To cope with the stress, the huasos turned the rodeo into a game.
Practical info
When is the best time of the year to see Chilean rodeo?
You can experience Chilean rodeo from early September to late March. The competition peaks on Chilean National Day, held on the 18th of September. Visit Chile during these months if you want to witness the thrilling rodeo competitions and celebrations firsthand. Show more
Where can I watch a traditional rodeo in Chile?
You can witness Chilean rodeos in the countryside and big cities like Rancagua, which hosts the National Championship. The Federación del Rodeo Chileno publishes an annual season schedule listing all rodeo events' dates and venues available for enthusiasts. Show more
How is Chilean rodeo different from North American rodeo?
Chilean rodeo stands out for its varied technique and pursuit. While North Americans rely on lassos to rein bulls or horses, Chilean riders challenge themselves to pin a cow against the arena's wall while running on horseback. The cowboy athletes competing in Chilean rodeos, called Huasos, showcase their national costumes during the events. Show more
What is the traditional dress of Chilean cowboy, and why do they wear it?
Chilean cowboys or Huasos sport traditional apparel associated with Chile's culture during rodeo events. They wear straw hats called the chupalla, which, along with the woolen garment chamanto, protect the person from varying weather conditions and keep them comfortable. The clothes' material provides ample flexibility for ease of movement during horse riding and high-energy rodeo activities. Show more
What are some of the traditional foods served during a Chilean rodeo celebration?
Celebrate a Chilean rodeo with traditional food and drinks served on the occasion, including empanadas, asado, and cazuela, sopaipillas, and chicha. The food types may vary in different regions, but you can find these dishes in most rodeos you visit. Pisco sour, the Chilean national drink, usually accompanies these traditional delicacies. Show more
