Tragi-Comical: New Year’s at Sea Overshadowed by Fog and Smoke

Dense fog and wildfire smoke ruined visibility during the iconic New Year’s fireworks show in Viña del Mar and Valparaíso.

What was meant to be a dazzling New Year’s Eve celebration by the sea turned into a tragi-comical spectacle. The traditional fireworks show that draws thousands—sometimes even millions—to Viña del Mar and Valparaíso was largely obscured by dense fog combined with smoke from ongoing wildfires affecting the country’s central-southern region.

The mix of heavy mist and airborne smoke dramatically reduced visibility, leaving much of the audience unable to fully appreciate the show. Many attendees described the situation as tragic, unusual, and for some, even unintentionally comical—a stark contrast to the high expectations surrounding one of Chile’s most iconic New Year’s celebrations.

Despite the turnout and festive atmosphere, nature had the final say on a night that promised spectacle but delivered surprise instead.