The Viña del Mar International Song Festival in Chile concluded with its 64th edition. The closing night featured the highly anticipated concerts of Colombian bands Morat and Sebastián Yatra, along with Chilean comedian Pedro Ruminot. These performances had been rescheduled due to the blackout that affected 99% of the country a few days earlier.
Morat opened the evening with their characteristic fusion of pop and rock, performing popular songs like 'No se va', 'Salir con vida' and 'Besos en guerra', although some audience members questioned whether they were using recorded music. Pedro Ruminot, a well-known local comedian, returned to the Viña del Mar stage with his comedy based on everyday life.
Sebastián Yatra, one of the most anticipated artists of the edition, closed the night with his mix of romantic ballads, Latin pop, and reggaeton, leaving the audience excited. The six days of festival programming included memorable concerts like that of Marc Anthony, the performance of the duo Ha*Ash, the energetic act of the band Incubus, and the participation of Argentine rapper Duki, all of whom were awarded Silver and Gold Seagulls.
One of the most notable moments was the presentation of the first Platinum Seagull to a Chilean woman, Myriam Hernández, in recognition of her career. Hernández announced her upcoming concert at the country's National Stadium. On the other hand, national comedians Chiqui Aguayo, Edo Caroe, Juan Pablo López, and Pam Pam managed to make the audience laugh during the different nights of the festival.
Regarding the competitions of the day, the Mexican Kakalo and the Chilean duo Metalengua emerged as international and folkloric winners, respectively, with their songs 'Tierra Trágame' and 'La baba del sol'. Spanish singer Nia and the Ecuadorian group Damas de Oro were also awarded for best international and folkloric performers.
Since its inception, the international and folkloric competitions have been an essential part of the event, although over the years the invited artists have taken on greater prominence. In this edition, the festival organization sought to give relevance to these competitions by separating them from the main performances. The Viña del Mar Festival concluded a day later than planned, leaving unforgettable moments etched in the memories of the spectators.
