Festivities & Holidays in Cusco 2024

Welcome to the spectacular Festivities & Holidays in Cusco 2024! The city is transformed into a vibrant tapestry of magic, color, culture, and history each year. You are invited to partake in events steeped in tradition and joy, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. We eagerly await visitors from around the world, ready to immerse themselves in the enchanting celebrations of Cusco.

Here, they are a celebration and a manifestation of ancestral history intertwined with modernity. During this exciting period, the streets come alive with dazzling parades, folkloric dances, and colorful costumes that reflect each city’s cultural diversity and identity.

All year round, we have events honoring ancient Inca deities and festivities commemorating historical and religious events. Every corner of Cusco becomes a gathering place. From the majesty of the Plaza de Armas to the charming traditional neighborhoods, every space is imbued with the festive energy that characterizes this time of year.

Come and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Cusco. Experience the warm hospitality of our people, who are eager to share their traditions and stories with you. The Cusco 2024 festivities promise to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of Peruvian tradition, where history and joy intertwine to create lasting memories.

January 6th: Bajada de Reyes 

The Bajada de Reyes in Cusco is a one-of-a-kind festivity that beautifully weaves together the region’s traditions and religious customs. This unique event, held every January 6, marks the end of Christmas and symbolizes the Three Kings’ arrival at the manger, where the Baby Jesus is found.

During the Bajada de Reyes, the cobblestone streets of Cusco come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors and a contagious sense of joy. People from all walks of life, locals and visitors, gather to partake in this vibrant event. The festivity starts with a lively procession through the main streets of the historic center, showcasing the city’s impressive colonial architecture and ancient Inca ruins.

Traditional music, folkloric dances, and typical costumes reflecting the region’s cultural identity accompany the procession. Visitors carry symbolic objects representing Cusco’s cultural and historical richness and images of the Three Wise Men.

Upon reaching the manger, a profoundly moving religious ceremony unfolds. This solemn event, held in the Plaza de Armas, involves prayers, songs, and the adoration of the Baby Jesus. It’s a moment of profound reflection and devotion, where the community’s spiritual bonds are reinforced, underscoring the significance of faith in daily life.

Peru, renowned for its gastronomy, offers a sensory feast during the Bajada de Reyes. The markets and street stalls are a treasure trove of local dishes, each one a unique blend of flavors and aromas. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these authentic dishes will surely delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

The Bajada de Reyes in Cusco is not just a festival; it’s a cultural phenomenon that weaves together faith and Andean cosmovision. This unique event is a testament to the identity of this historic Peruvian city, a living testament to its rich heritage. By participating in this festivity, you’re experiencing a celebration and gaining a deeper understanding and respect for the secrets this ancient city holds.

January 20th: Saint Sebastian (Patron San Sebastian)

The feast of the Patron Saint Sebastian, a celebration with deep historical roots, dates back to when this religious image was brought to the south of Cusco shortly after the Spaniards arrived in Peru. It became the protector of the Inca inhabitants of that era. This festivity, deeply ingrained in the local culture, is a vibrant amalgamation of religious and cultural traditions. The heart of the celebration’s San Sebastian Square beckons locals and visitors with its lively costumes, captivating choreographies, and the opportunity to savor typical dishes from the Cusco region.

January 20 is a date that promises an unforgettable experience at the Feast of the Patron Saint of San Sebastian in the Plaza de Armas of San Sebastian, Cusco. The day starts with a grand entry led by local authorities and majordomos, setting the stage for a day filled with up to 25 different dances. The plaza comes alive with vibrant costumes and energetic rhythms. At the same time, the aroma of Cusco’s signature dishes, like Chiriuchu and baked guinea pig, wafts through the air, tempting attendees to indulge in the local gastronomy. This unique fusion of the spiritual and the festive is an experience to be noticed.

The Plaza de San Sebastian, located south of the city and only 10 minutes from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco, becomes a meeting point for all the dances and troupes participating in the festival. It is an audiovisual spectacle that reflects the cultural richness of Cusco and the community’s devotion to its patron saint, San Sebastian.

February 11th: Cusco Carnival

The Cusco Carnivals are not just festivities but a profound cultural expression. Celebrated during February or March, they harmoniously blend elements of the Catholic religion with the Andean cosmovision. They are a complex cultural manifestation, encompassing the celebration of fertility, thanksgiving to the Pachamama, the beginning of the Andean new year, purification, and community union. These elements are a testament to the rich culture and deep-rooted beliefs of the Andean peoples in the Cusco region.

In Cusco, the Carnival bursts into life with a vibrant parade of troupes and floats weaving through the city’s picturesque streets. Participants don traditional costumes and a kaleidoscope of colors that vividly represent the area’s cultural diversity.

Following the central day, a unique and vibrant celebration known as the octave or “Kacharpari” takes place a week later in the main square of Cusco. Lively dances, playful water games, and the bubbly foam fun characterize this event. It’s also a culinary delight, with various typical dishes of the festivities to savor. In some areas of Cusco, the Yunzas are held, a fascinating tradition where a tree adorned with various gifts is artificially planted. People then dance in a circle around the tree, and with the aid of a machete, they attempt to knock it down, allowing attendees to claim one of the gifts. The octave of carnivals marks the end of this important celebration.

As is customary in Peru, the festivities are always accompanied by a lavish feast. One of the highlights is the famous Timpu or Puchero. This delectable dish involves boiling various types of meat and then adding whole cabbage leaves, potatoes, moray, chickpeas, and rice. A sweet medley of sweet potatoes, peaches, pears, and yuccas is boiled in another pot. Both foods are served separately, similar to “sancochado,” but with the ingredients lovingly wrapped in a cabbage leaf. Another culinary delight is the rich Kapchi, a refreshing dish made with beans, onions, and potatoes seasoned with milk and cheese and enhanced with mushrooms. It’s served with stuffed rocoto and rice, another typical dish of Carnivals. Finally, there’s frutillada, a drink prepared with chica de jora and strawberries boiled with cinnamon and lemon verbena. After resting for eight days, it transforms into a delicious drink served with sugarcane brandy.

March 24th to 31st: Holy Week

In Cusco, Peru, Holy Week is not just a religious festival but a profound experience that binds the city’s life and culture. From Palm Sunday, the streets pulsate with the community’s tangible devotion. It’s a time of unity and introspection, where the traditional blessing of the branches heralds the start of a week brimming with spiritual significance.

The pivotal day is Monday 25 when the streets overflow with the procession of the Lord of the Tremors. This moment of profound reverence is when thousands of devout gather in the main square of Cusco to receive the blessing of this brown Christ. Devotion permeates the air, mirroring the vibrant faith of the people of Cusco, a devotion that surpasses the city’s borders and permeates the local media.

On Good Friday, the city is enveloped in solemnity and tradition. From the Plaza San Francisco, where the Way of the Cross commences, to the Pope’s Cross in Saqsaywaman, to the medicinal plant fair in the same plaza, every moment is steeped in symbolism and meaning. Families gather around the traditional 12 plates, a culinary celebration that embodies communion and abundance amidst fasting and reflection.

In every corner of Cusco, Holy Week is more than a religious celebration; it is an experience that connects the past with the present, faith with tradition, and the community with its history. It is a time to remember, reflect, and celebrate as an extended family united by devotion and love.

May 3rd: Cruz Velacuy

The Cruz Velacuy, a deeply rooted ancestral cultural custom, is practiced in numerous communities across the Andes, particularly in Peru. This celebration, a unique manifestation of devotion and religious syncretism, is a testament to the Andean region’s rich and diverse cultural tapestry. It combines elements of the Catholic religion with pre-Columbian indigenous beliefs, creating a fascinating blend of traditions.

The main objective of this celebration is to worship the crosses, sacred symbols located in the different churches. During the days of the vigil, the crosses of different temples, churches, and families are venerated with music, dances, food, and prayers—typical Cusquenian gatherings.

The birth of the festival of the crosses in Cusco holds a significant place in its history. According to historical accounts, this celebration was introduced during the Colony by the Spaniards, with the intention of replacing the worship of indigenous gods, such as Apus, with the feast of the crosses. This transition marks a pivotal moment in the cultural and religious landscape of Cusco.

In 1950, Cusco was struck by a devastating earthquake ravaging its ancient structures. In the face of this catastrophe, the people of Cusco, demonstrating their unwavering resilience, turned to their faith, leading to a significant increase in enthusiasm for the celebration of the Cross.

Since then, the people of Cusco have been waiting for May 2nd to celebrate the respective crosses in the different temples, churches, and families still possessing crosses. Over time, this has become a tradition inherited from generation to generation.

During the Velacuy Cross, the crosses are decorated with flowers, lights, and other decorative elements, creating a festive and solemnly spiritual atmosphere. Participants dance traditional dances, expressing their devotion through music and movement. This event is an occasion to practice religion and unite the community.

May 19th: Torrechayoq

The celebration of the Lord of Torrechayoc, patron of the city of Urubamba, is a unique religious festivity in the Sacred Valley. The primary day, a variable date within May, is marked by a diverse array of locations for the festivities, including the central square, churches, and even the city’s stadium. This unusual setting adds to the event’s charm, drawing faithful cusqueños and national and foreign tourists, who gather with contagious joy to pay homage to the Lord of Torrechayoc.

The origin of the Lord of Torrechayoc’s cult is steeped in history and myth. One such myth, dating back to the mid-nineteenth century, tells of a large cross placed in the snow, with the Lord’s image at its center. Passers-by and pilgrims reportedly had vivid dreams and revelations, with the Lord of the Cross speaking to them about the intense cold and frost in his place. These testimonies led to the transfer of the Cross to Urubamba, where it continues to be worshipped today.

The Lord of Torrechayoc’s celebration kicks off on Saturday during the second week of May. The main event is a unique mass, not held in a church but in a stadium, adding a modern twist to the traditional festivities. After the Eucharistic mass, the parishioners honor the Lord with a lively dance, a testament to the joy and reverence that characterize this celebration.

May 26th-29th: Qoyllurit´i

In the region of Cusco, Peru, the festivity of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i, a revered Andean deity, is celebrated every year. This celebration is a fascinating blend of elements from the Catholic religion and indigenous beliefs, offering a unique and rich cultural experience.

The celebration commences on the day of the Holy Trinity, with a solemn procession to the sanctuary of the Lord of Ccoylloritti, where the faithful pay homage to the miraculous image. This devotion is a testament to the deep-rooted faith and respect for tradition.

The following day, the serenade includes dances and liturgical ceremonies honoring the miraculous Christ. Afterward, a group of Queros sets off to the snowy peaks in search of the Snow Star and to take blocks of ice to their communities. The procession culminates in Cusco, with the Corpus Christi festivities, filling the streets with music and color.

Local legends about the Lord of Qoyllurit’i tell of the miraculous appearance of an image of Christ on the rock of the snowy mountain. This image is considered sacred, and those who revere it with devotion are believed to receive divine blessings and favors.

A fascinating example of cultural syncretism is the fusion of indigenous religious customs with the Catholic religion in the festivity of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i. Music, dance, and ancestral rituals combine with Christian ceremonies to create a vibrant and spiritual event.

May 30th: Corpus Christi

Cusco’s Corpus Christi, rooted in the tradition of the imperial city, fuses the customs of the native peoples in an impressive spectacle that captivates both locals and visitors.

In Inca times, the festivities honored the ancestors and gods such as Taita Inti and the goddess Killa—the main festivity dedicated to Inti, which involved processions of high rulers’ mummies. The Spaniards, surprised by these traditions, incorporated the procession of saints and virgins in what we know today as the Corpus Christi of Cusco.

On the eve of the celebration, the saints depart from their churches accompanied by parishioners and regional music, traveling long distances until they reach the Arch of Santa Clara and the Church of San Pedro. The procession culminates at the cathedral, where the mass in Quechua and the procession of the saints take place, followed by dances and celebrations until the octave.

June 24th: Inti Raymi

Inti Raymi, which in Quechua means “Festival of the Sun,” is an ancient Inca celebration that honored Inti, the sun god. Every year, in the Andes, especially in Peru, this celebration is held in honor of the deity who played an essential role in the Inca vision, representing the source of life and energy for their communities.

The Inti Raymi ceremony was necessary for the Incas since pre-Columbian times. The festivity was initially associated with the harvest and the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere, which marked the beginning of a new agricultural cycle. The celebration was banned with the arrival of the Spanish, colonization, and the imposition of Catholicism. However, some communities managed to keep it clandestinely until it was revitalized and transformed into a public event in the mid-20th century.

Many national and international tourists attend the Inti Raymi ceremony on June 24 every year. Dances, music, processions, and theatrical performances recreate Inca traditions and ceremonies. At the Sacsayhuaman fortress near Cusco, ceremonies are held to honor the sun and give thanks for future harvests.

During Inti Raymi, participants wear traditional costumes, vibrant textiles, and jewelry and immerse themselves in the spirituality of Inca culture. The celebration is an occasion to preserve and disseminate ancestral customs, promote cultural tourism, and promote pride in Peruvian identity.

Inti Raymi shows the deep bond between the Andean peoples and nature and their spiritual beliefs. The celebration not only pays homage to the sun god but also highlights the capacity of indigenous communities to resist and overcome historical challenges. Inti Raymi continues to be an essential event that honors Peru’s rich cultural and Inca heritage today.

July 15th: Virgen del Carmen- Paucatambo, Pisac and Huarocondo

Paucartambo is a picturesque town in Cusco, Peru. It is known for being the scene of one of the region’s most important festivities: the Feast of the Virgen del Carmen.

This festivity, celebrated every July, combines Catholic religious traditions with Andean cultural elements. During the festival, the image of the Virgen del Carmen is carried in procession through the town streets, accompanied by folkloric dances, music, colorful costumes, and masks.

The Feast of the Virgin of Carmen in Paucartambo is famous for its traditional dances, such as the “qapac qolla,” “pablitos,” and “chunchachas,” which are performed by groups of local dancers. These dances represent stories and legends of the region and are an integral part of the celebration.

In addition to religious and cultural activities, the festival includes fairs, craft markets, and social events where locals and visitors can enjoy local cuisine and participate in various festive activities.

The Feast of the Virgen del Carmen in Paucartambo is considered one of the most important and colorful celebrations in the Cusco region. It attracts thousands of people from different parts of the country and the world to witness and participate in this unique cultural experience.

Huarocondo (province of Anta) and Pisac (in the Sacred Valley) are places where the feast of the Virgen del Carmen is also a momentous occasion. During this festivity, religious activities, such as masses and processions, and cultural events, such as traditional dances and fairs, are held.

August 1st: Pachamama Day 

Pachamama is a central figure in many indigenous cultures of Latin America, especially in the Andes. She represents Mother Earth and is revered in various rituals and ceremonies. In some communities, August is considered unique to pay homage and show gratitude to Pachamama.

During this day, some indigenous communities perform ceremonies, rituals, and offerings to honor and thank Pachamama for the natural resources, the fertility of the land, and the abundance it provides. These practices often involve burning offerings, such as coca leaves, food, and other symbolic elements.

It is important to note that traditions and practices related to Pachamama may vary among different communities and regions. The connection between the earth and nature is a fundamental aspect of many indigenous cultures, and the veneration of Pachamama is a fundamental aspect of many indigenous cultures.

September 14: Señor de Huanca

Señor de Huanca is a religious figure venerated in the Cusco region of Peru. His sanctuary is located in the district of San Salvador, approximately 48 kilometers northeast of Cusco. This sacred place has gained significance as a center of pilgrimage and devotion.

According to tradition, the history of the Señor de Huanca dates back to colonial times, when it is said that a figure of Christ appeared in a cave in the area. Since then, the location has attracted thousands of pilgrims seeking miracles and spiritual protection. The main festival in honor of the Señor de Huanca is celebrated on September 14, drawing faithful from various parts of the region.

The journey to the sanctuary is known for its natural beauty. Pilgrims traverse mountainous landscapes to reach the cave where the Señor de Huanca is venerated. Devotion to this religious figure has deeply rooted itself in the local culture, making it a site of great spiritual and cultural importance in the Cusco region.

Every September 14, the Lord of Huanca festival is celebrated, and thousands of Cusqueños visit the sanctuary to undertake their pilgrimage. A massive pilgrimage of devotees from Cusco and parts of South America characterizes this festival.

September 30th: San Jeronimo (Patron San Jeronimo)

The festivity in honor of the Patron Saint Jerónimo takes place annually for four days, from September 27 to 30, the latter being the primary day of the celebration. The image of the Patron San Jerónimo is carried in procession twice a year, participating in both the Corpus Christi festivities in Cusco and his patron saint celebration in the district of San Jerónimo.

The organization of this festivity falls to the stewards, known as “carguyoq,” along with the Brotherhood of Knights of the left and right sector, representatives of the parish and the District Municipality of San Jerónimo, and the Association of Folkloric Dances of San Jerónimo, which brings together all the participating groups. These groups meet in advance to coordinate the details of the organization of the festive activities.

The development of the celebration is in charge of the “mayordomos” or “carguyoq”, who assume the responsibility of guaranteeing that the festivity is carried out. This role is usually assumed by a couple committed by their faith and devotion to collaborating in achieving the festivity. In addition, there is a central carguyoq, born in San Jerónimo, who is in charge of providing the clothing for the image of the Patron Saint Jerónimo and presiding over the central mass in his honor.

During the four days of the festivity, the central carguyoq must provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner to its “hurk’ados” (collaborators who contribute economically), thus seeking social recognition and prestige as the main contributor to the celebration. 

Activities in honor of San Jeronimo include an “entrada” in which the comparsas gather at the carguyoq’s house, a parade from the Cajonahuaylla sports field to the church of San Jeronimo, and celebrations in the plaza with food, dance, and music reserved for each comparsa and its guests.

November 1st: All Saints Day

Every November 1, All Saints’ Day is commemorated in Peru and the nations with Catholic roots in Latin America and globally. Initially, this holiday was closely linked to the saints, but it has evolved.

This celebration, originally observed by the Catholic Church faithful, consisted of showing respect to the souls of those who had been beatified. That is why it is called All Saints’ Day: to honor the beatified and canonized saints who enjoy eternal life with their Creator. With time, however, the meaning of this holiday has changed to also pay tribute to ordinary people who are no longer physically in this world.

The main activity on November 1 is visiting cemeteries. Families gather to honor their deceased loved ones and bring offerings, such as bouquets of flowers, written letters, and balloons to decorate the graves.

In Cusco, the baptism ceremony of the tantawawa, a baby made of bread, takes place, a family tradition that is disappearing with time. During the ceremony, a satire occurs with a fake priest and his assistant, who, during the “mass,” commit the godparents to fulfill a series of promises for the “godchildren,” even preparing hats with jokes, some of which are only realizable in the imagination. After the ceremony, the feast and dance begins, where the tantawawas, filled with sweets and chocolates, are given to the girls, while horses (also made of bread) are given to the boys.

In several markets and plazas, such as the Plaza Tupac Amaru, you will find improvised kiosks offering the delicious lechon, a dish of oven-roasted pork, and Cusquenian corn tamales. The tantawawas and the colorful “pan caballos” are irresistible for the family’s youngest members, and in many places, huge tantawawas are prepared.

December 24: Santurantikuy

Cusco, Peru, hosts the traditional crafts fair called Santurantikuy. This fair takes place on December 24, Christmas Eve. “Santurantikuy” comes from Quechua and means “sale of saints.” In Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, local artisans gather during this event to sell various items, including crafts, toys, clothing, and especially figures and religious objects related to Christmas.

One of the highlights of Santurantikuy is the sale of nativity scenes or “pesebres” (scenes depicting the birth of Jesus) and other religious figures used to decorate homes during the Christmas season. Numerous local visitors and tourists attend the fair, searching for unique and traditional handmade products for their Christmas celebrations. Santurantikuy sells and offers cultural activities, music, and family events.

December 31: New Year

The New Year’s celebration in Cusco is a unique experience that combines ancient cultural traditions with the festive energy of the imperial city. During this time of year, Cusco’s Plaza de Armas becomes a vibrant gathering point adorned with festive lights and decorations that fill the air with a festive spirit. Locals and visitors congregate here to welcome the new year with music, dancing, and the traditional burning of “old year” dolls, which symbolize the end of the previous year’s negatives and new opportunities.

In addition to the festivities in the Plaza de Armas, Cusco offers a wide range of options to celebrate the New Year. From elegant restaurant dinners to lively street parties and special events in bars and discos, there is something for all tastes and preferences. Travelers can immerse themselves in the city’s nightlife or enjoy the festive atmosphere while exploring the illuminated streets and markets of local products and souvenirs.

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Cusco’s surroundings offer opportunities to explore the region’s nature and history. From excursions to nearby Inca ruins to hikes through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, there are many ways to connect with the beauty and serenity of the city’s surroundings. Travelers can enjoy spectacular views, breathe fresh air, and marvel at the region’s rich history and culture as they welcome the new year.

You may be interested in:

• How to get to Cusco? 
• The Best Carnivals in Peru 
• The 15 Best Beaches in Peru 
• Cusco Travel Guide: Tips and Recommendations for your Trip