Chilean culture on show in February

This month will see Chile highlight some of the reasons why it is such a popular destination for an overland adventure with the hosting of several events celebrating different aspects of the country's culture.

According to Chilean newspaper La Tercera, in an article translated and republished by the Santiago Times, this February will see a number of festivals taking place up and down the country designed to highlight some of the different cultural experiences visitors to Chile can enjoy.

In Valdivia in southern Chile, the Fiesta de la Chilenidad is already underway and runs until Sunday (February 5th).

The event celebrates a number of traditional Chilean leisure activities, including displays of Chilean equestrian riding and Chilean rodeo.

Festival-goers can also sample an array of local foods and try their hand at Cueca - Chile's national dance.

Later in the month, visitors to Chile can let off some steam at the Festival of the Tomato in the central town of Quillon.

On February 11th every year, friends and family take to the streets of Quillon to hurl tomatoes at one another all night long in one of the messiest and most fun experiences anywhere in Chile.

Other highlights on the Chilean cultural calendar this month include the Fiesta del Choclo, which takes place from February 17th to 19th in the rural town of Santa Fe in the Biobio region.

Here you can experience various local culinary delights made from corn, vegetables and other product of grain farmers in the region.

Meanwhile the Festival Costumbrista Chilote in Castro, taking place from February 19th to 20th, will celebrate traditional folklore and food of the region.

Around 50 local artisans will be taking part with one of the highlights the traditional dish of Curanto - consisting of shellfish, meat and potatoes prepared in three-feet deep holes on site.