The Pampilla Festival (; also known as Pampilla de Coquimbo or simply La Pampilla) is a Chilean celebration that takes place between 18 and 20 September every year in honor of the country's Fiestas Patrias – although it usually extends two days before or two days after those dates – in the esplanade of the same name, located in the city of Coquimbo. During this period, even weeks before activities begin, hundreds of families settle in tents and vehicles in the hills. History According to tradition, due to the distance between Coquimbo and Santiago, news of the establishment of the First Government Junta on 18 September 1810 arrived two days later. For this reason, 20 September is currently a holiday in the Coquimbo Region and the official closing date of La Pampilla. All these celebrations began to take place annually on 29 July 1823. There are records that indicate that, at the end of the 19th century, horse races were held in this place on 19 and 20 September. According to photographic archives, attendance during the Fiestas Patrias grew in the first decades of the 20th century. When was created in 1864, La Pampilla – then known as La Serranía – was owned by . Upon his death, the land was auctioned and acquired in 1870 by José del Carmen Vicuña Lavigne, who used the property for public entertainment. In 1968 the land was acquired by the city's Lions Club, which finally transferred it to the Municipality of Coquimbo in 1978. The mayor at the time, , signed this before the notary Alejandro Roncangliolo. The festival at La Pampilla corresponds to the most multitudinous celebration of the Fiestas Patrias. From the beginning of the celebrations until 20 September, more than 100,000 people are present, some in tents, to enjoy the fondas and shows that take place there. Its popularity is such that it recently has begun to be celebrated in other locations in northern Chile. Outside of September, the site is used as a venue for amateur football and motorsport, the latter due to the road course built in 2006, which has hosted regional speed competitions. Internal distribution During September's celebration, fondas and ramadas are set up - places where traditional Chilean food and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are sold. Several traditional games are held near the sector of the ramadas. The sector designated for the sale of national and