When Hendrik Brouwer set foot in Valdivia in 1643, no one could have predicted that, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, a group of Dutch settlers - some arriving via South Africa - would establish themselves in the same region. The descendants of these adventurers still identify, at least in part, as Dutch. Of course, there are also more recent Dutch arrivals to the region, often for love and accompanied by a spirit of entrepreneurship. From seed potato producers and flower bulb growers to a concrete producer and a Dutch real estate agent, you can find many Dutch-run businesses between Valdivia and Puerto Montt.

It’s fascinating to note that, due to the opposite seasons, the region boasts a large flower bulb industry, including tulip and lily bulbs.

True to tradition, Valdivia’s honorary consul for the Netherlands, Charlotte Lovengreen, organized a King’s Day luncheon. This year, the event was held in collaboration with and attended by the honorary consuls from Puerto Montt, Adrian Hamann, and Concepción, Karen Kraakman. An impressive 90 Chilean Dutch (or Dutch Chileans) gathered to celebrate the King’s birthday with them. Memories of their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents continue to be preserved for the current generation, also clear by the number of young people attending.

With traditional Dutch dishes, plenty of orange decorations, and the singing of both national anthems, Dutch culture remains proudly upheld. The hope is to continue this cherished tradition in the years to come.