“Los Carnavales”, or “El Carnaval” as we say in Spanish, is a huge party celebrated not only in Brazil. This celebration actually takes place in all of South America, including Peru.
Each country has its own representation of the Carnival, but what exactly is it? What is it like celebrating the carnival in Peru? and, How can I make the most of it when in Peru? Stay with us to answer those questions!
The word "Carnaval" also suggests that, in Peru, it originally meant the time before Lent every year, a catholic tradition celebrated worldwide. Before the deeper meaning of Lent, a time for fasting, prayer, penance, and giving to those in need, the carnival is just for fun.
Long before the Spaniards came to Latin America and Peru, the Incas used to have different celebrations that were held at that time. During that time, the Incas performed offerings and “pagos” (rituals that stimulate rain), these rituals were accompanied by music, singing, and dances.
Over the years, this celebration mixed with Spanish traditions as it took on an Andean nuance. People wore flamboyant clothes, vibrant colors, and a wide variety of food and drinks. All of that combined with the distinctive happiness of the Peruvian people.
The Carnival's central month is in February. Interestingly, most of the Andean regions in Peru celebrate this tradition big time where parades, dancers, and musicians flood the streets of these cities to celebrate "Carnavales".
Next, we'll tell you about the most iconic carnivals in Peru which draw the most excitement from visitors thanks to their stunning features.
Cusco, which was formerly the capital of the Incas, is most recognized for serving as the entry point to attractions like Machu Picchu. Its little cobblestone streets and alleys are a great location to experience Peruvian Carnival.
As music, dancing, and singing fill the city, the action starts to flood the old city center. There, residents and visitors join the celebrations, and all of them have the same aim: to soak as many people as they can and to celebrate with friends. They also play with water balloons, foam, and flour.
Traditional Cusqueña cuisine and folkloric dances are essential components of the festivities. Communities and neighborhoods get ready for the big day. "Yunzas"—trees decked with gifts—fell that day. People applaud, dance, and sing as they go along, and find pleasure in classic beverages like frutillada and chicha de jora.
It is also called the “Festival de la Virgen de la Candelaria”, this celebration is in February, and it draws hundreds of people to Puno, near Lake Titicaca. People from all around Peru gather to honor "Mamacha Candelaria" with vibrant dancing and singing.
This event lasts fourteen days, drawing thousands of people who flock to the streets to watch the colorful processions and traditional dances. This festival is a spectacular celebration as it has lights, joy, and Peruvian folklore.
This carnival offers energetic music, traditional dances, and colorful parades. All of these items showcase the Cajamarca's vibrant culture. The festivities offer a warm welcome to guests and a unique glimpse into local customs, turning them into a riot of color and enthusiasm.
The main parade of this celebration features “Rey Momo” and "Ño Carnavalón", a Peruvian carnival ritual. The Carnival often centers around this character, its name derives from the Greek god Momus, who represents sarcasm, mockery, and irony. Ño Carnavalón takes center stage during the festivities as it satirizes and condemns the actions of others.
The carnival often concludes with the symbolic burial of Ño Carnavalón. During this occasion, its "testament" is read aloud, which includes harsh judgments of major events and important people in the region. This satirical tradition highlights the carnival's humor and social commentary which makes the carnival unforgettable for all who attend.
Catacaos is a small city in Piura, every February, the city celebrates the carnival that is well-known in Peru. The celebration starts with “El manguerazo” (A large shooting water hose).
It consists of a fireman shooting water at all the people in the main square, then, hundreds of people of all ages take the streets to dance, sing, and perform in the festival. Catacaos people are hospitable, so if you visit there, be sure you’ll have a great time.
• Protect from the Sun: Don’t forget to bring a good hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, during this time of the year, Peru has hot sunny days.
• Explore Local Cuisine: Food all over Peru is delicious, try it in the places where you’ll spend carnavales. We have a guide for you in case you visit Cusco explaining the ancient Inca capital's most traditional dishes.
• Do some research: We've got guides about the places where carnivals are celebrated the most: Cusco, and Puno. However, we recommend doing extra research to be at ease.
• Be friendly: As you see, carnivals are moments of joy and happiness. Interact with locals, and take part in all the events, and it's a great way to have fun!
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