The event, at Cafe Cactus in the Provincia neighbourhood, is open to children and families both with and without Croatian roots. Organisers aim to offer an interactive introduction to Croatian history, customs and language.
Around 200,000 people of Croatian descent live in Chile, where Croatian migrants began arriving in search of work in the second half of the 19th century. The community has since made a significant contribution to the country’s political, economic and cultural life.
The programme includes Croatian folk dance, music and singing workshops, as well as basic Croatian words and phrases. Children will also take part in arts and crafts activities featuring Croatian hearts and other cultural symbols, and learn about the origins of the necktie, traditionally associated with Croatian soldiers.
Other activities include a puppet show, a children’s Croatian bingo game, tote-bag painting, biscuit decorating and bracelet-making. A quieter area will also be available for children who prefer an environment with fewer sensory stimuli.
Domovina, a non-profit cultural association founded in 2007, promotes and preserves Croatian culture and traditions in Chile through music, singing, dance and cultural programmes.
One of its main groups is the Baština folk ensemble, which brings together descendants of Croatian immigrants and others interested in Croatian culture. The ensemble performs traditional dances from different parts of Croatia with live music, traditional costumes and folk instruments.