Chile Valparaiso Artisan Fishermen Celebrate Saint Peter

The Saint Peter Traditional Fishermen celebrations take place in all Chile but center as an event in Valparaiso.

Chile Valparaiso Artisan Fishermen celebrate yearly the patron Saint Peter festivity. The celebration is considered one of the main attractions of the country. Procession takes place in the ocean and on land.

Every June 29^th the coastal city of Valparaiso dresses in feast for the celebration of Saint Peter, protector of artisan fishermen.

Bio Bio Chile reported on the preparations and the event. The Institute of Fishing Development of Chile IFOP explains that one of the main attractions of the day is the ocean procession which dresses the bay of Valparaiso Pacific Ocean in a multitude of sub-real colors.

“Men of the Ocean thank the Saint for watching over their security and ask for an abundant year fishing season,” IFOP states. The procession of fishermen can be seen from any point of the port. Over one hundred small fishing boats participated in the devotion. Saint Peter celebrations have been taking place in Chile for the past 126 years.

The celebration has become of the most important traditional celebrations, highlighted for its heritage and touristic value. The city of Valparaiso on land follows the celebration with diverse events, music, street color dressing, culture and social celebrations.

CHILE TRAVEL explains that Fishermen believe that the Saint will keep them safe from the sometimes “furious” waters of the Pacific. The entire city supports the fishermen and recognize their efforts by joining the event.

The Saint Peter artisan or traditional fishermen celebrations actually take place throughout the entire country, although it is Valparaiso were the turn out becomes eye catching for a multitude.

SERNAPESCA the National Service of Fishing and Aquiculture of Chile adds that artisan fishing is protected by Chilean law. The Service explains that the activity contributes significantly to the economy and quality of lives of local coastal people as well as to national and regional economies. Artisan and traditional fishing –conducted by original communities in great numbers in Latin America has been highlighted by international organizations for its sustainable value.

People from all sectors take to Valparaiso celebrations in a symbolic procession which speaks of the “man-ocean” relationship in the rich waters of the Pacific Ocean.

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