What began as a competition to promote the ‘Ciudad Jardín’ (Garden City) has evolved over the years into one of Latin America’s most important musical events. The Viña del Mar International Song Festival, which celebrates its 64th edition this year and runs from 23 to 28 February, has become a cultural phenomenon that attracts thousands of people to the coastal town in north-west Chile every year.
The beginnings of a global celebration of music
Created in 1960, the festival was conceived as a local competition designed to showcase Chilean artists and promote the city as a tourist destination. Although modest by today’s standards, it was a success that laid the foundations for what was to become a renowned festival.
In its second year, the festival broke new ground by introducing the Lira de Oro (Golden Lyre), a prize awarded to the best artists in the competition. This prize was replaced in 1969 by the Gaviota de Plata (Silver Seagull), then in 2015 by the prestigious Gaviota de Oro (Golden Seagull), which has become one of the festival’s most coveted distinctions. In 1965, the event took a key step forward by opening up internationally: it introduced categories dedicated to folklore and international music, and its jury welcomed representatives from Mexico, Peru, Argentina and Uruguay for the first time.
It is also a stage where rising stars take flight. Shakira is an emblematic example: in 1993, aged 16, she came third in the competition. A few months later, she recorded two albums that marked the start of her meteoric rise to international stardom.
A stage that brings together the biggest names
Every year, during the last week of February, the Quinta Vergara amphitheatre, the heart of the event, becomes the epicentre of world music. Internationally renowned artists from the continent such as Carlos Vives, Luis Miguel, Ricky Martin and Celia Cruz have graced the stage, as have artists from around the world such as The Police, Tom Jones, Gloria Gaynor, Elton John and Jamiroquai, to name but a few. Every night, a variety of musical genres intermingle, from pop to rock to Latin melodies, making each performance a unique experience. Audiences can also enjoy comedy shows, with stand-up being an essential part of the festival.
Our article: Valparaiso: a mythical port of colour, culture and landscapes
A festival open to the world
Each edition of the festival is followed by millions of television viewers thanks to live broadcasts that have extended the festival’s reach, making it accessible to an even wider international audience. This increased visibility has helped to consolidate its status as a cultural and musical benchmark.
A symbol of Chilean culture
With over six decades of history, the Viña del Mar Festival remains an unmissable event, rooted in tradition while evolving with the times. Its longevity is testament to its ability to bring generations together, celebrate musical diversity and embody Latin American cultural effervescence.
In 2024, this 64ᵉ edition promises once again to delight music lovers from all over the world, confirming Viña del Mar as a true monument of the international music scene.
Photos: Viña del Mar Festival | D.R.
