National Independence Day (September 18) marks the start of the tourism season in Punta Arenas. October brings warmer weather but more erratic wind and weather conditions. Most tourism services operate normally on all major holidays like Christmas and New Years, although it's always a good idea to inquire beforehand. There are many religious and military holidays celebrated in Punta Arenas, but most do not usually draw or interfere with tourism. All services like transportation and day tours run normally through mid April and even into May, but May brings the start of the winter 'off-season' and services slow down. June 29 is the Fiesta de San Pedro y San Pablo, with processions, a special seaside mass, and regattas feting the patron saints of fishermen. At the end of July, the Fiesta de la Patagonia occurs, and is a winter carnaval with dancing, music and lights through the winter-dark, below-zero streets of Punta Arenas.