If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of one of the most iconic and lively celebrations in the world, the festivals of Cusco should be at the top of your must-visit list.
This city, rich in history and culture, transforms each year into a vibrant stage where tradition, music, dance, and spirituality come together to create unforgettable experiences.
As a blogger passionate about exploring and sharing the best of every corner of the world, I want to tell you everything you need to know to fully enjoy the festivals of Cusco.
From June to August, the city becomes filled with magic, and I invite you to dive into this fascinating world and discover the traditions that make it so special.
I won’t just share details about the most well-known celebrations—I’ll also offer useful tips to make your visit truly unforgettable and unique.
Because it’s not just about being there; it’s about living every moment authentically. So get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Cusco and discover everything this city has to offer!
The Cusco Carnival is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated 
celebrations in the region—an event bursting
with color, music, and tradition that brings both locals and tourists together.
Held between January and March, the Cusco Carnival blends ancient rituals with modern customs, making it an unforgettable experience.
This event isn’t just about water fights and foam; it’s a celebration that honors the land, life, and community.
Cusco’s carnivals are deeply rooted in tradition, with dances, music, water games, and talcum powder—reflecting the fusion of pre-Hispanic customs with colonial European influences.
The first phase of the Cusco Carnival begins with the “Compadres 
and Comadres” celebration, which takes place on the two Thursdays before the main carnival day.
This part of the festivity is known for its satirical and playful nature. The people of Cusco create dolls of compadres and comadres using recycled materials such as cardboard boxes, plastics, and old clothes.
These dolls typically represent characters from daily life in the city—from political figures to popular neighborhood personalities—and are placed at midnight on poles or high places for everyone to see.
The goal of these dolls is to humorously highlight the characteristics of the people they represent and send messages to society—always respectfully and without malice.
It’s a kind of “mocking with affection,” something very characteristic of Cusco’s culture.
The most anticipated day of the Carnival is Carnival Sunday, when the streets of Cusco overflow with energy, laughter, and water.
From early morning, both locals and visitors dive into water games and the “mistura” mixture (a foamy, sticky concoction thrown by young people).
Water, foam, and balloons are essential elements of the celebration, creating a joyful and refreshing atmosphere. The streets—especially the Plaza de Armas—become a true battleground of happiness where everyone joins in the fun.
Though thousands participate, what makes the Cusco Carnival truly special is its ability to unite locals and tourists in one grand celebration—where origin doesn’t matter, only the joy of tradition.
A week after Carnival Sunday comes the Octava de 
Carnaval or Kacharpari, marking the end of the festivities.
This celebration is filled with dancing, music, and, of course, more water games that keep the festive spirit alive in the streets of Cusco.
In some parts of the city, especially in nearby neighborhoods, the tradition of Yunzaso Cortamontes is eagerly awaited.
In these celebrations, a tree is planted and decorated with gifts. Participants, amid music and dancing, take turns trying to cut it down with a machete.
Whoever succeeds gets to take home a gift, and the party continues with even more dancing and joy.
The Cusco Carnival isn’t just a visual and auditory spectacle—it’s also a delicious gastronomic feast.
During this season, traditional dishes reflect the essence of Andean cuisine, known for its rich flavors and generous portions. Here are some traditional dishes you must try:
Timbu or Puchero: A traditional stew made by boiling a 
variety of meats, including pork, chicken, and beef, along with potatoes, moraya (a type of Andean potato), chickpeas, rice, and cabbage leaves. In a separate pot, sweet potatoes, peaches, pears, and yucas are also boiled and served alongside. Everything is served similar to sancochado, covered with a cabbage leaf to create a sweet and savory flavor mix.
Kapchi: This fresh dish is ideal for enjoying during the warmer carnival days. Made with broad beans, onions, potatoes, and milk, and seasoned with cheese—some versions include mushrooms. It’s served with a delicious stuffed rocoto pepper and rice. A flavorful and energizing dish, perfect for long days of celebration.
Frutillada: The drink of choice during Carnival. Made from chicha de jora (fermented corn drink) and strawberries, boiled with cinnamon and lemon verbena. After fermenting for a few days, it becomes a deliciously refreshing beverage. Often spiced up with aguardiente (sugarcane liquor) for an extra kick. It’s the perfect companion for a festive day and a treat for your taste buds.
What makes the Cusco Carnival so unique is that it’s not just celebrated in the streets—it’s deeply rooted in the customs and worldview of the Andean people.
The mix of ancient elements and colonial influences creates a vibrant and meaningful celebration. During these days, Cusco becomes a place where time seems to stand still, allowing travelers to live something truly authentic in the heart of the Andes.
If you have the chance to visit Cusco during Carnival, not only will you be part of an unforgettable party, but you’ll also connect with the locals, learn about their traditions, and take home memories that will last forever.
So get ready to get soaked, dance, and enjoy the most delicious flavors of the Andes!
Corpus Christi is one of the most important religious celebrations in Cusco—a true example of religious syncretism and the deep-rooted cultural traditions that define the Imperial City.
Declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2004, this festival has over 400 years of history and is celebrated with a rich blend of Catholic devotion and ancestral customs that have endured through the centuries.
The celebration of Corpus Christi in Cusco began shortly after the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.
In its early years, it replaced ancient Inca rituals, such as the solemn procession of mummified rulers, which were carried with reverence during pre-Hispanic ceremonies.
With the introduction of Corpus Christi, the Catholic Church presented religious images of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints as part of its evangelization efforts.
Over time, the celebration evolved into one of the most significant events on Cusco’s festive calendar.
Corpus Christi in Cusco is not just a religious event—it’s a cultural manifestation that deeply involves the entire community.
Each year, the processions begin with the “Bajada de Pentecostés,” a traditional event that signals the start of the festivities. This is followed by the symbolic journey of the saints, who are brought from their respective temples to the Cusco Cathedral.
Throughout this journey, devotees accompany the sacred images, while the streets and plazas are decorated with flower carpets and other traditional adornments that reflect devotion and artistic expression.
One of the most anticipated moments is the “Entrada de Corpus,” held on May 29.
On this day, more than fifteen revered images from different parishes parade through Cusco’s historic streets in a magnificent procession that ends at the Cathedral.
Thousands of faithful take part, making it a spectacular display of faith, identity, and cultural pride.
May 30 marks the main day of the celebration, beginning with a special Mass led by the Archbishop of Cusco.
After the religious service, the most venerated images in the city—including saints such as San Antonio, San Sebastián, San Blas, and various representations of the Virgin Mary like the Virgin of Belén and the Immaculate Conception—are paraded alongside the Custody, a golden vessel that carries the consecrated host, symbolizing the Body of Christ.
After May 30, the images remain in the Cathedral until the Octava de Corpus, usually celebrated on the first Thursday of June.
That day begins with a Mass and a Te Deum held in the Cathedral’s courtyard, followed by another grand procession through the streets of Cusco.
Once again, the faithful gather—many walking barefoot as an expression of devotion and sacrifice—creating an atmosphere of solemnity and gratitude.
The celebration concludes with the return of the images to their original temples, leaving a profound spiritual impression on the people of Cusco.
As in every major celebration in Cusco, food plays an essential role during Corpus Christi.
The star of the day is Chiriuchu, an emblematic Cusqueñan dish that showcases the biodiversity of the Andes.
Chiriuchu is a flavorful mix of guinea pig, chicken, roasted corn, cecina (dried meat), Cusco sausage, torrejas, cochayuyo (a type of seaweed), and rocoto—a dish that brings together the region’s rich culinary traditions.
More than just a meal, Chiriuchu is a tribute to ancestral Andean cuisine, offering a taste of the culture and history that Cusco proudly preserves.
Imagine standing in the heart of the Andes, watching the first rays of the 
winter solstice sun bathe ancient stones in golden
light. Drums echo through the mountains. Flutes call out to the heavens. Suddenly, the Inca emerges in regal splendor, and time folds into itself.
Welcome to Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun—a dazzling journey back to the glory of the Inca Empire, where the gods still listen, and the Sun shines stronger than ever.
Every year on June 24, the city of Cusco transforms into a living stage where the grandeur of the Inca civilization is reborn. Inti Raymi, or “Festival of the Sun,” was once the most important religious celebration of the Inca Empire. Instituted by the legendary Emperor Pachacútec, this ceremony honored Inti, the Sun God, thanking him for life, harvests, and protection.
It’s no coincidence this festival is held during the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a sacred moment—when the Sun, seen as the father of the Incas, begins his journey back, bringing hope, light, and abundance.
Today, Inti Raymi is more than a reenactment. It’s a spiritual resurrection, a profound connection between past and present, nature and cosmos, humans and the divine. Locals and travelers from around the world gather to witness this unforgettable ritual that rekindles the sacred fire of a civilization that once ruled the Andes.
The festival takes place in three symbolic locations, each echoing with the chants of ancient rituals:
Once plated in sheets of gold, Qorikancha was the most sacred site in the empire. Here, the festival begins at sunrise with the Inca’s first invocation to Inti. Priests, dancers, and nobles offer coca leaves, chicha, music, and prayers, as the temple’s ancient stones absorb the first golden rays.
Formerly known as Auqaypata, or “Warrior’s Square,” this is where the Inca greets his people. On a grand ushnu (ceremonial platform), he receives tributes from the four Suyus (regions of the empire): Chinchaysuyu, Antisuyu, Qollasuyu, and Kuntisuyu. This powerful moment honors the unity and diversity of Tawantinsuyu.
Set on a hill overlooking Cusco, Sacsayhuamán is where the soul-stirring climax takes place. With its massive stones and panoramic view of the valley, it becomes the stage for rituals full of meaning and magic: sacred fire ceremonies, symbolic llama sacrifices, offerings of sankhu (holy bread), and the final exaltation of joy known as the Q’ochurikuy.
The ceremonial acts of Inti Raymi are not just performances—they are echoes of an ancient worldview where everything is connected and every action is sacred:
Tributes from the Four Suyus: Envoys from the empire’s corners arrive with gifts—each one symbolizing the abundance and diversity of the land.
Chicha Offering: A ritual toast to life and fertility, shared with the earth and the sky.
Sacred Fire: The flame of renewal is lit to invoke the Sun’s light and energy for the coming season.
Llama Offering (symbolic): In ancient times, this was a plea for protection and prosperity. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of devotion.
Sankhu Bread Offering: This sacred bread honors the bond between humans and gods, earth and cosmos.
Q’ochurikuy: An explosion of music, dance, and communal joy, celebrating the return of light and hope.
Attending Inti Raymi is like opening a window into another time. For a few hours, Cusco becomes the capital of the Inca Empire once more—alive with colors, chants, and ancestral pride. You feel the energy in your bones, the reverence in the air, the collective heartbeat of a people who have never forgotten who they are.
Whether you’re passionate about history, spirituality, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, Inti Raymi is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration that offers far more than spectacle—it offers connection, wonder, and a story that’s still being told.
Book early: The city gets packed, and tickets for the Sacsayhuamán stage sell out fast.
Get acclimatized: Cusco is over 3,300 meters high—give yourself time to adjust.
Dress in layers: June is wintertime, so expect chilly mornings and sunny afternoons.
Respect the culture: This isn’t just a show; it’s a sacred tradition.
If there’s ever been a moment to understand the heart of the Andes, it’s during Inti Raymi. Let the drums awaken your spirit, let the sunlight guide your soul, and let yourself be part of a ritual that—five centuries later—still makes the Sun shine stronger over Cusco.
Deep in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, about 110 kilometers southeast of Cusco, lies the town of Paucartambo—normally quiet, but every July it transforms into the vibrant epicenter of one of the most cherished religious and cultural celebrations in Peru: The Virgin of Carmen Festival.
This is not just a religious event. It is a breathtaking expression of living tradition, spiritual devotion, music, color, and storytelling. Recognized as National Cultural Heritage, the festival is a powerful blend of Catholic faith and Andean worldview—a living fusion that brings history to life in dazzling form.
The veneration of Mamacha Carmen, as the Virgin is lovingly called, dates back to the late 16th century, when Spanish missionaries brought her image to Peru. According to local lore, two identical statues of the Virgin of Carmen were destined for different towns—Paucartambo and Paucarqolla—but due to a mix-up, the more stunning and majestic statue ended up in Paucartambo. This “mistake” became a blessing, giving rise to a centuries-old tradition that remains vibrant today.
Over time, the Qollas—Andean highland traders—adopted the Virgin as their spiritual protector. Her presence merged with pre-Hispanic beliefs, and together they created a unique celebration that embodies both Indigenous and Spanish legacies. Today, this syncretic devotion is danced, sung, and celebrated with breathtaking passion.
From July 15 to 18, Paucartambo becomes a city of celebration. Thousands of locals and visitors arrive to witness the powerful processions, intricate dances, and theatrical performances that honor the Virgin and tell the stories of Peru’s multicultural soul.
The festival officially begins with a solemn mass and a grand procession, in which the Virgin is paraded through the cobbled streets of the town. But this is no ordinary march—it is accompanied by a vibrant explosion of traditional dances, symbolic characters, and dramatic performances.
Among the most iconic are:
Qhapaq Qolla: Representing the highland merchants, these masked dancers with llama skins portray the strength and persistence of the Andean people.
Qhapaq Negro: A heartfelt homage to the Afro-Peruvian presence, these dancers bring grace, rhythm, and a poignant narrative of colonial history.
Other characters like the Saqras, mischievous devil figures that dance on rooftops to tempt the faithful, add theatrical flair to the celebration, blending humor with spiritual reverence.
In 2006, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture officially declared the Virgin of Carmen Festival as National Cultural Heritage. Then in 2011, it was proposed as a candidate for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity—a recognition that underscores its deep cultural and historical value.
What makes this festival extraordinary is not just its color or music—it’s the storytelling. Each dance, mask, and costume tells a part of Peru’s long journey, from colonial rule and Indigenous resistance to religious devotion and community pride.
If you’re planning a trip to Peru in July, make sure Paucartambo is on your itinerary. During the Virgin of Carmen Festival, this quaint town turns into a sacred stage where centuries of history, faith, and joy are performed under the Andean sky.
You won’t just see a celebration—you’ll feel part of something ancient and alive. From the hypnotic rhythms of the dancers to the profound silence of the Virgin’s gaze, every moment is unforgettable.
This is not a festival to watch; it’s one to live.
In Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, the beginning of 
November is marked by deep reverence, reflection, and enduring love. All Saints’ Day (November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2) are not just religious observances—they are heartfelt celebrations of life, memory, and spiritual connection.
These two days transform the city into a living altar, where every home, street, and cemetery becomes a space to honor the souls of those who have departed, but who are never forgotten.
All Saints’ Day is dedicated to the memory of all the saints and beatified individuals of the Catholic Church who may not have an official feast day. In Cusco, it’s a day of quiet devotion and communal prayer. Families attend mass, light candles, and reflect on the intercession of their protective saints.
Homes are filled with solemnity and preparation, as this marks the beginning of a two-day journey between the material world and the spiritual realm.
On November 2, the mood shifts toward remembering loved ones who have passed on. Known locally as “Día de los Difuntos,” this day brings thousands of Cusqueños to the cemeteries, carrying with them candles, flowers, favorite foods of the departed—and memories.
Families clean and decorate graves, light candles, and offer prayers. Many even bring music—hiring bands to serenade the dead with songs of remembrance and love. The cemeteries echo with both joy and sorrow: tears of loss are met with smiles of remembrance.
One of the most heartfelt traditions in Cusco is the preparation of altars—called ofrendas—at home. These sacred tables are lovingly adorned with:
The favorite dishes and drinks of the departed
Candles to light their way
Religious symbols and photos
Colorful breads and sweets, including the traditional “bollos de Todos los Santos”—delicately shaped breads resembling dolls, animals, or saints, often decorated with candy and fruit
These offerings are not eaten until the following day. It is believed that, during the night between November 1 and 2, the spirits return to visit their homes and families. The food and candles guide and welcome them, creating a spiritual reunion that transcends time and space.
In rural communities around Cusco, the belief in the souls’ return is even more vivid. Graves are not only decorated with care but are visited overnight. Some families camp beside the tombs, keeping vigil and sharing stories of their loved ones under a sky full of stars—a beautiful metaphor for souls watching from above.
This intimate act of devotion is a way to say, “You are not forgotten.”
What makes All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days in Cusco truly special is the seamless blend of Catholic and Andean traditions. The ancient Andean concept of Ayni—the reciprocity between the living and the spiritual world—is deeply present during these days. By giving food, music, and love, families believe the deceased offer protection, blessings, and guidance in return.
These are not days of sadness, but of reunion and gratitude—an affirmation that love never dies.
For travelers fortunate enough to be in Cusco during the first days of November, this is a unique opportunity to witness one of the most intimate and profound expressions of Peruvian spirituality. You’ll see a city illuminated by candles, hear songs drifting from cemeteries, and feel the deep emotional current that runs through families as they remember those they love.
In Cusco, death is not an end—it’s a bridge between worlds. And during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, that bridge is beautifully lit with devotion, tradition, and everlasting memory.
Cusco is much more than a city—it’s a feast for the senses. Its 
history, culture, and traditions come alive through vibrant festivals that offer far more than visual spectacle; they immerse you in the very soul of the Cusqueños. If you’re planning to experience one of Cusco’s iconic celebrations, here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Preparation is key, especially since these festivals attract thousands of visitors every year. Be sure to book your accommodation and transportation well in advance. However, Cusco’s true magic often lies in the unexpected. While having an itinerary is important, leave space for spontaneous moments—these are often the experiences that become your most cherished memories.
Festival days can be long and energetic, so comfort is essential. Cusco’s weather can be unpredictable—sunny and warm during the day but chilly at night. Dress in layers and bring a jacket. Don’t forget sturdy shoes, as cobblestone streets and uneven paths demand good footwear. Being comfortable means you can focus fully on the celebration without fatigue or cold slowing you down.
The festivals aren’t just a feast for the eyes—they’re a culinary adventure as well. Don’t miss traditional dishes like cuy chactado (fried guinea pig) or rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper). Street food vendors offer an explosion of local flavors, each bite telling a story of Cusco’s rich cultural heritage. Take your time, savor every taste, and let the food deepen your connection to the region.
Cusco’s festivals are meant to be lived, not just watched. Step into the heart of the streets where music and dance invite you to join in. Sing, dance, and mingle with locals—Cusqueños are warm and welcoming, eager to share their traditions. By participating, you’ll experience the festival’s true spirit and create unforgettable connections.
These festivals hold deep religious and cultural significance. Respect the rituals, processions, and dances that carry centuries of meaning. Understanding and appreciating the history behind these customs is part of the privilege of witnessing them. Your presence should honor the local community and their sacred celebrations.
Cusco is the ancient Inca capital, and its festivals are steeped in pre-Hispanic and colonial history. Don’t just be a spectator—seek to understand the stories behind what you see. Visit museums, explore archaeological sites like Sacsayhuamán, or talk to local guides to enrich your experience. This knowledge transforms every festival into a living history lesson.
Cusco’s festivals blend vibrant energy with moments of spiritual calm. While the streets buzz with music and dance, quieter rituals and processions invite reflection and respect. Find your balance—know when to dive into the celebration and when to step back for calm. This harmony will deepen your appreciation and make your experience truly complete.
Visit Cusco and immerse yourself in its magical traditions, history, and culture. At Oki Doki, your next adventure is just a booking away. Don’t wait—reserve your trip now and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. We’re waiting to welcome you with open arms in the heart of Peru!
