The long weekend of Semana Santa in Argentina and Chile saw millions travel for religious observances and festivities, generating significant economic activity.
On Sunday, April 20, 2025, the Confederación Argentina de la Mediana Empresa (CAME) reported that 2.7 million people mobilized during the four days of Semana Santa, which included Thursday, April 17, to Sunday, April 20. This surge in travel resulted in an estimated economic impact of $733.128 million.
According to CAME, each visitor spent an average of $87,590 daily, with an average stay of 3.1 days. This translated to a total estimated consumption of $271,529 per tourist over the weekend. The economic benefits were driven by a variety of events, from religious ceremonies to food festivals and sporting competitions.
However, not all destinations were created equal in terms of expenses. Tierra del Fuego emerged as the most expensive destination, with an average expenditure of $320,000 daily. In contrast, Tucumán averaged $72,000 daily, while Mendoza recorded $75,000. This disparity highlights the diverse economic landscape across Argentina during the holiday.
When comparing this year's figures to last year's, there was a noticeable decline. The number of tourists decreased by 16%, and the economic impact was lower. Last year’s Semana Santa coincided with the Malvinas Day holiday, resulting in a longer six-day break for many Argentines, which spurred greater domestic travel.
Despite the drop compared to 2024, there was a slight increase of 1.9% in the number of travelers compared to 2023, albeit with a 9% shorter average stay. Additionally, the total expenditure, adjusted for inflation, was 14.9% higher than in 2023, where tourists spent an average of $10,650 daily.
Meanwhile, in Chile, the Semana Santa long weekend also concluded on April 20, 2025. This weekend included Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Resurrection Sunday. As many Chileans reflect on this holiday, they are already looking forward to the next long weekend, which will occur in June.
The upcoming long weekend is scheduled for Friday, June 20, 2025, in celebration of the National Day of Indigenous Peoples. This holiday will mark the second long weekend of the year, providing three consecutive days off.
Chile has a total of 19 holidays planned for 2025, although effectively, there are 18 days off, considering that Sunday, June 29, will coincide with both the San Pedro y San Pablo holiday and the Primary Presidential and Parliamentary Elections.
Six of these holidays will create long weekends: June 20 (National Day of Indigenous Peoples), August 15 (Assumption of the Virgin), September 18 and 19 (Fiestas Patrias), October 31 (Day of the Evangelical and Protestant Churches), and December 8 (Immaculate Conception).
Pending holidays in Chile include Labor Day on May 1, Day of Naval Glories on May 21, and several others leading up to Christmas. These holidays are significant not only for their religious connotations but also for the economic activity they stimulate.
In 2025, Semana Santa is particularly meaningful for many in both Argentina and Chile, as it encompasses a blend of cultural, religious, and economic elements. In Argentina, the days leading up to Easter are filled with activities that reflect the country’s Catholic roots, such as the celebration of Domingo de Ramos, which marks Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, and Jueves Santo, which commemorates the Last Supper.
Viernes Santo, or Good Friday, is a day of solemn reflection, remembering the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ. Sábado Santo follows, a day dedicated to silence and contemplation, before culminating in Domingo de Resurrección, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.
As millions of people across both nations engaged in these traditions, local economies benefitted from the influx of tourists and the associated spending. Festivals, fairs, and religious events drew crowds, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere that characterizes Semana Santa.
In summary, the Semana Santa holiday period in Argentina and Chile not only serves as a time for reflection and religious observance but also acts as a catalyst for economic growth and community engagement. As the holiday season wraps up, both countries look forward to the next opportunities for extended weekends and the associated cultural celebrations.
