Carnival 2025 in Peru

Carnavales in Peru is one of the largest celebrations. After Spanish colonization, Catholic traditions merged with indigenous beliefs, and a very unique carnival was born. There are parades, music, dancing, fabulous costumes and food. Each region in Peru also has its peculiar ways of celebrating. The biggest and most popular Peru Carnavales are held in Cajamarca and Ayacucho. Lima, like many other cities across Peru, also holds its carnival.

Traditions and rituals

Water fights are very popular in some cities. So, arm yourself with water guns, balloons, or a bucket, and be ready to get soaked. This tradition dates back to the Inca Empire holiday Dia de la Challa. Another popular tradition is Yunza Ritual, which means dancing around a tree decorated with presents, ribbons, and balloons. Then, the dancers try to cut down the tree with a machete. At the Peruvian carnival, it's also popular to elect a royal couple–the Carnival Queen and King.

Cajamarca Carnival (March 1-5, 2025)

Cajamarca is known as the capital of the Peruvian Carnival, hosting the biggest and most joyful celebration in the country. On Carnival Monday, a huge parade and festivities attract thousands of spectators from all over the country. The ceremony is filled with dancers, floats, music bands, and performers dressed in costumes and masks.

Central events also include the "Queen of the Carnival" contest adds elegance to the festivities, while water fights and playful pranks bring an air of spontaneity. Visitors can also enjoy folkloric dances and concerts. Plaza de Armas serves as the launchpad for those who want to witness the unique "Unsha" ceremony, where a decorated tree is cut down in a symbolic act of celebration and renewal.

Ayacucho Carnival (March 1–4, 2025)

The Ayacucho Carnival, celebrated annually in February or March in the historic city of Ayacucho, Peru, is one of the country's most colorful and vibrant festivities. Renowned for its rich Andean traditions, the carnival blends indigenous and Spanish influences, creating a unique cultural spectacle. The main events feature lively parades, including the famous "Corso de Carnaval," where dancers in traditional costumes flood the streets, accompanied by live music from local bands playing infectious huayno rhythms. Plaza Mayor serves as the focal point for much of the celebration.

Beyond the parades, the carnival is a feast for the senses, offering a variety of traditional Andean foods and drinks such as pachamanca and chicha de jora. Visitors can also experience other cultural events like art exhibitions, theater performances, and competitions. The Ayacucho Carnival is a time for locals and tourists to come together in joy, celebrating the region's heritage with dance, music, and gastronomy against the backdrop of Ayacucho's picturesque colonial architecture.

Puno Carnival (Fiesta de la Candelaria) (February 2, 2025)

The Puno Carnival, also known as the Fiesta de la Candelaria, is celebrated in Puno, Peru, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This vibrant festival honors the Virgin of Candelaria and blends Catholic traditions with Andean culture. The main events include colorful parades with thousands of dancers and musicians performing traditional dances such as the Diablada and Morenada. Other highlights are the folkloric competitions and a procession through the city streets, showcasing Puno's rich cultural heritage in an electrifying celebration of faith and identity.