A kids’ guide to Fiesta de la Tirana

This children’s article, A kids’ guide to Fiesta de la Tirana, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and discover one of the biggest and brightest celebrations in Chile. Written by Sinead O’Carroll, an experienced teacher and writer.

A tiny town with a giant celebration

Imagine living in a quiet town with just 1,200 people – and then suddenly having over 250,000 visitors arrive all at once! That’s exactly what happens every July in the town of La Tirana, in the far north of Chile.

People come from all over the country (and even from other countries) to take part in the Fiesta de la Tirana – a 10-day celebration full of music, dancing, colour, and history. The main day is July 16th, when people gather to honour the Virgen del Carmen, one of the most important saints in Chile.

Even though it’s winter in Chile at that time of year, the streets of La Tirana are full of life. There are fireworks, food stalls, marching bands, and thousands of dancers wearing beautiful costumes and amazing masks. It’s like stepping into a real-life carnival!

Music and dancing

During the festival, there’s so much music and dancing. The dancers wear huge headdresses, bright costumes, and detailed masks – some are funny, some are scary, and some sparkle in the sun. Each dance group has its own style, and they often perform for hours at a time!

Fiesta de la Tirana isn’t just a party. It’s also a time for many people to show their faith. Some walk for days to reach the Santuario de Nuestra Señora del Carmen de la Tirana, a special church built hundreds of years ago. They come to pray, give thanks, or ask for blessings.

The legend of La Tirana

The name “La Tirana” means “the tyrant” – which sounds strange for a joyful festival! But there’s a powerful story behind it.

In the 1500s, there was a brave Incan princess named Ñusta Huillac. She didn’t want European conquerors to take over her land or force people to follow a new religion. She fought back and became known as “La Tirana” because of her fierce resistance.

Then something unexpected happened. Ñusta fell in love with a prisoner named Vasco de Almeida, who was Christian. She even chose to become a Christian too, so they could be married.

Her people were shocked and angry. They believed she had betrayed them, so Ñusta and Vasco were killed. Years later, a church was built where they were buried. That church became the centre of the Fiesta de la Tirana.

So even though the festival is fun and colourful, it also remembers a story of love, bravery, and faith, a story that still inspires people today.To find out more about this celebration, you can visit the Chile Travel website.

Article vocabulary list

• Costume – special clothes worn for a performance or celebration
  
• Mask – something you wear on your face to change how you look
  
• Saint – a holy person who is honoured in some religions
  
• Pilgrimage – a special journey to a religious place
  
• Resistance – fighting back against something or someone
  
• Conqueror – someone who takes control of land by force
  
• Betray – to hurt someone by going against their trust
  
• Sparkle – to shine with lots of tiny bright lights
  
• Festival – a time of celebration with special events or traditions

Comprehension questions

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