The 5 festivities you can’t miss while in Cusco
The cultural wealth of Cusco not only fills us with architectural wonders, but also with its traditions. From enigmatic times to the present day, these festivities continue to maintain their value, creating a magical and joyful atmosphere in the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about these 5 festivals so you can plan them on your next visit to Cusco.
- What festivities can’t I miss when I’m in Cusco?
- What is the meaning of these festivities in Cusco?
- What is the best time to travel to Cusco?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Panoramic view of the Plaza de Armas in Cusco
It is important to keep in mind that Cusco is located at a high altitude (3,400 meters above sea level), which can cause discomfort due to altitude sickness. It is recommended to acclimatize at least one day before engaging in intense activities. In addition, during the holidays, the city receives a large number of tourists, which generates crowds. It is advisable to make reservations in advance and take precautions at events with crowds.
What festivities can’t I miss when I’m in Cusco?
Cusco has great festivities throughout the year, making it an ideal destination at any time of the calendar. Today we will present the 5 festivities that we believe are most important. Bathed in culture and tradition, these festivities are a reflection of the charm that the city of Cusco has prepared for you.
Inti Raymi
Date: June 24.
Meaning: Inti Raymi is one of the most representative celebrations of Cusco, not only for its magnitude, but for its connection with the Inca identity.
Inti Raymi, or “Festival of the Sun”, commemorates the cult of the sun god Inti, considered the protector and source of life of the Incas.
In the Andean world, the sun is the sustenance of all forms of life, and therefore, ceremonies dedicated to the Sun have a deep spiritual charge.
The winter solstice in the southern hemisphere marked the date of this event, when the sun began its return and the agricultural cycle was reborn. It is considered the “Andean New Year.”
This celebration also coincides with the anniversary of Cusco, which makes it much more special, bringing the city to a complete standstill to appreciate the ceremony.
History and context: Although Inti Raymi was banned by the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century due to its relationship with the worship of pagan gods, the celebration was rescued in 1944 by the Inti Raymi Foundation as a stage performance.
The current staging seeks to be a faithful reflection of Incan customs and rituals, restoring a tradition that had been interrupted for centuries.
Main activities:
Main ceremony in Sacsayhuamán: Representation of the Inca and his court making offerings to the Sun.
Procession: The festival begins at Qoricancha (Cusco City Tour: Sacsayhuaman, Qoricancha, Cathedral), the temple dedicated to the Sun, and goes through the main streets of Cusco, following the route towards the Plaza de Armas and culminating in Sacsayhuamán.
Rituals: Use of traditional costumes, music with quenas and drums, and chants in Quechua.
Tips for tourists:
Purchase tickets in advance for viewing in Sacsayhuamán.
Use sunscreen, a hat and comfortable clothing due to sun exposure.
Arrive early to get a better viewing spot.
Sun Festival in Sacsayhuaman
Corpus Christi
Date: 60 days after Easter Sunday (movable date, usually in June).
Meaning: It is a Catholic celebration that brings together 15 saints and virgins in a procession to the Cathedral of Cusco. It combines Christian and Andean symbolism.
Main activities:
Procession: The images are carried on decorated platforms from their parishes to the Plaza de Armas.
Solemn Mass: The mass is one of the most important moments of the event, and the Plaza de Armas is filled with devotees participating in the ceremony.
Gastronomy: The traditional chiriuchu is served, a cold dish made up of guinea pig, chicken, cured meat, cheese, rocoto, French toast, among other ingredients.
Tips for tourists:
Visit the Plaza de Armas in the morning to enjoy the departure of the virgins and saints.
Try chiriuchu at local stalls.
Respect the traditions and the people who attend the festival, since it is a deeply religious celebration.
Corpus Christi parade in Cusco
Santurantikuy
Date: December 21-24.
Meaning: It is a craft fair that brings together artists from all over the region to sell nativity scenes, religious images, art and crafts.
The name Santurantikuy comes from Quechua and means “sale of saints”, since the fair is mainly dedicated to the sale of religious figures, especially nativity scenes (cribs).
The fair reflects a beautiful fusion of Cusco traditions and Christian Christmas.
Main activities:
Handicrafts for sale: Ceramic pieces, wood carvings, textiles, art and more.
Nativity Scene Display: Traditional Cusco nativity scenes are a draw for visitors, displaying nativity scenes with figures made of ceramic, wood and other materials.
Festive atmosphere: The square is filled with lights, folk music, and a very particular Christmas atmosphere.
Tips for tourists:
If you are looking for unique souvenirs, this is an excellent opportunity to take home a piece of Cusco tradition.
If you are a fan of photography, the fair is an ideal place to capture colorful and traditional scenes.
Carry cash in small denominations, as most vendors do not accept cards.
Santurantikuy Fair – Cusco
New Year
Date: December 31st.
Meaning: The New Year in the city of Cusco is celebrated in a very special way, fusing tradition with contemporary culture.
Celebrating the holiday in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is a spectacle full of fireworks, music and artists that will make you welcome the new year in the best way.
Main activities:
Customs: Burning dolls (symbolizing the old year) and making offerings to Pachamama.
Parties: The night is filled with music, fireworks and celebrations in Cusco’s main square.
Tips for tourists:
Book accommodation in advance.
Be cautious in crowds due to the influx of people.
Have the best vibes to enjoy the new year surrounded by new people.
Fireworks in the Plaza de Armas in Cusco
Carnivals
Date: February or March (movable date).
Meaning: Carnival is one of the most fun and colorful festivities in Cusco. It is a popular celebration that takes place before Lent, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Carnival is a mixture of indigenous, mestizo and European influences. The festivities are characterized by parades, dances, and the famous “water games.”
Main activities:
Water games: The Cusco carnival is famous for water battles with balloons, buckets and water guns.
Dances: Groups of people parade through the streets dressed in brightly colored traditional costumes, performing traditional dances and music.
Gastronomy: Consumption of puchero , a traditional meal with lamb, tubers, corn, fruits, among other ingredients.
Tips for tourists:
Be prepared to get wet if you decide to participate in water games.
Wear light and comfortable clothing to enjoy outdoor activities.
Don’t forget to try puchero at the local markets to get to know the gastronomy of the region.
Tourists at the Cusco Carnival
To fully enjoy the festivities and surroundings of Cusco, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather of the season, considering that although June is a dry month, temperatures can be cold in the morning and evening. In addition, the high tourist season also increases prices, so it is advisable to plan your trip in advance to have a safe and enriching experience.
What is the meaning of these festivities in Cusco?
Cusco’s festivities such as Inti Raymi, Corpus Christi, Santurantikuy, New Year’s and Carnivals are deeply rooted cultural expressions that reveal the syncretism between Andean traditions and Christian influence.
Together, they represent cycles of renewal, gratitude and celebration of life.
These festivals highlight values such as community, connection with nature, spirituality and pride in the Cusco identity. They are moments when history, tradition and modernity converge, consolidating Cusco as a living and vibrant cultural epicenter.
Dance parade in the Plaza de Armas
What is the best time to travel to Cusco?
Traveling to Cusco in June is an exceptional experience because it coincides with important historical, cultural and festive events celebrated in the city.
This month marks the anniversary of the founding of Cusco as an Incan city and the historical capital of Peru.
In addition, the Inti Raymi, the most emblematic ceremony of the Inca calendar, is celebrated along with Corpus Christi, one of the most important religious events in the region.
During this month, Cusco becomes the epicenter of cultural, artistic and tourist activities, attracting visitors from all over the world.
| Aspects | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Climate | Sunny days and clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities and spectacular views. |
| Festivities | Participation in the jubilee month of Cusco that revives ceremonies such as the Inti Raymi. |
| Festive Atmosphere | Cusco comes alive with parades, cultural events and activities organized throughout the city. |
| Gastronomy | Opportunity to try chiriuchu, a traditional dish of the June festivities, as well as a great gastronomic diversity. |
| Organized tourism | Greater number of tours and events prepared to receive international and local visitors. |
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What main festivals are celebrated in Cusco in June?
The Inti Raymi is celebrated, a recreation of the Inca ritual to the Sun God, the Corpus Christi, a religious manifestation with processions of saints along with various cultural and artistic activities related to the Jubilee Month of Cusco.
3) What is Inti Raymi and when is it celebrated?
Inti Raymi is an Incan ceremony dedicated to the Sun God, held on June 24. It revives Incan traditions in historic places such as Sacsayhuamán, attracting tourists from all over the world.
4) What activities take place during Corpus Christi?
Corpus Christi includes processions of saints and virgins from churches to the Cathedral of Cusco, accompanied by music, traditional dances and typical cuisine.
5) What characterizes the Cusco Carnival?
The Cusco Carnival is celebrated between January and March. It includes water games, colorful parades, allegory contests and typical dishes.
6) What is Santurantikuy?
Santurantikuy is a craft fair that takes place between December 21 and 24 in the Plaza de Armas, where art figures and Christmas decorations made by Cusco artisans are sold.
7) How is the New Year celebrated in Cusco?
New Year in Cusco is a combination of modern traditions and ancient rituals. It includes mass events in the Plaza de Armas and Andean ceremonies for good fortune.
8) What are the advantages of traveling to Cusco in June?
June offers dry weather, iconic festivities such as Inti Raymi and Corpus Christi, cultural activities, typical cuisine and a festive atmosphere that showcases the richness of Cusco culture.
9) Why is Cusco an ideal destination for culture lovers?
Cusco is not only home to archaeological sites, but also celebrates living traditions throughout the year, especially in June, when its historical and cultural identity is on full display.
Advice from people who have been there
By: David R.“In love with Cusco“
“Visiting Cusco in June is the best experience I recommend. There is not a day that you are not surprised, there seems to be a daily activity. I regret not having slept much, but every day had a new experience waiting for me.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, January 21, 2025