Santurantikuy: Discover the Most Traditional Christmas Fair in Cusco

Did you know that every December 24, Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is transformed into a colorful stage full of history, tradition and art? This is the magic of Santurantikuy, one of the oldest and most emblematic Christmas fairs in Peru. But what makes this fair so special and why is it a must-see event if you visit Cusco in December? Read on and let’s discover all the details together.

What is the Santurantikuy?

The Santurantikuy is a traditional Christmas fair held every December 24 in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Its name in Quechua means “purchase of saints”, as it was originally intended for the sale of religious images, especially figures of the Child Jesus for nativity scenes. Over time, this fair has evolved to include handicrafts, Christmas decorations and local products.

History of Santurantikuy

The history of Santurantikuy dates back to the XVI century, during the colonial era. Although it is not known exactly in what year this festivity began, the oldest records date back to 1834 but with a different name. This fair began as an event of Spanish origin, imposed to evangelize the indigenous Peruvians where Andean artisans sold their religious creations to decorate the churches and homes of the region. Over the centuries, the event has maintained its essence, but has also incorporated elements of modern culture, becoming a space for cultural exchange between the Andean and the Western.

The protagonist of this fair is the Niño Manuelito, which is Emmanuel, the variation of the child Jesus in Spanish, the Cusqueños adopted and adapted this concept due to the Spanish imposition and put the child Manuelito in Inca clothes, this was unworthy of the Catholic Church, but it became for the Cusqueños a beloved figure of Cusco.

Today, the Santurantikuy is not only a place to buy Christmas items, but also a living reflection of the rich tradition of Cusco.

What can be found at Santurantikuy?

In this fair, you will find a wide variety of products that represent the Andean culture and tradition:

• > Religious figures: artisans offer images of the Baby Jesus, known as “Niños Manuelitos”, as well as saints and other handmade religious figures of all sizes.
• > Nativity scenes: Nativity scenes with Andean motifs, figures of St. Joseph, the Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus, as well as nativity decorations such as moss, dried plants and other natural elements for nativity scenes.
• > Handicrafts: Textiles, ceramics, silverware, pottery, Christmas ornaments and pieces carved in wood or stone.
• > Food and drinks: Enjoy typical dishes, such as tamales and hot punch, as you browse the stalls.
• > Nativity Scene Contest: Local authorities organize this event to encourage participants to show their creativity.

@inkatimeperu 🎄 Vive la magia del Santuranticuy en Cusco ✨ El Santuranticuy es mucho más que una feria, es el alma de Cusco hecha arte. 🎨❤️ Desde hermosos retablos hasta figuras del Niño Manuelito, cada pieza cuenta una historia. Este 22, 23 y 24 de diciembre, apoya a los artesanos locales y vive una experiencia única en la Plaza de Armas de Cusco. ¡Tradición, cultura y magia navideña te esperan! 
👉 ¡Comparte este video y ayúdanos a que más personas apoyen a nuestros artesanos! 💕 Cada like y cada visita son una manera de mantener vivas nuestras tradiciones. #tour #viaje #cusco #santuranticuy #viajeaperu #tradicion #peru #viajeros ♬ Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee

Tips for visiting Santurantikuy

1. Arrive early: The fair starts early in the morning, and the early hours are ideal for exploring without crowds.
2. Bring cash: Most of the stalls do not accept cards, so be sure to bring enough cash, especially in soles.
3. Dress comfortably: December in Cusco can be cold, especially at night, so bring warm clothes.
4. Be prepared for rain: As these months are usually rainy, it is best to be prepared so bring an umbrella or rain poncho in addition to the rain.
5. Wear comfortable shoes: The center of Cusco usually has a stone floor and with the rain, it is a slippery place for shoes made of plastic or similar materials.
6. Respect the artisans: Ask before taking pictures and appreciate the value of handmade work.
7. Use sunscreen: Even if it is not sunny, you should take care of your skin by using sunscreen due to the altitude of Cusco.
8. Do not buy impulsively: This fair can dazzle people, but if you buy everything you see you will run out of budget for the objects you wanted and you risk buying at inflated prices.
9. Be careful with your things: Because of the crowdedness of these festivities, some thieves seek to take advantage of tourists who are amazed to extract their belongings so we recommend you to carry your backpack or bag ahead.

Key facts about the Santurantikuy

• > Date: From December 22nd to 24th, every year.
• > Place: Main Square of Cusco.
• > Schedule: From early at 6:00 am until 7:00 pm.
• > Recommendation: Stay in a hotel in Cusco close to the center to enjoy the fair without setbacks.

Why visit the Santurantikuy?

The Santurantikuy is more than a fair; it is a cultural experience that combines tradition, faith and art. It is a unique opportunity to see the work of local artisans, learn about Andean Christmas customs and take home a piece of Cusco culture.

In addition, this traditional fair was proclaimed Cultural Heritage of the Peruvian nation on September 22, 2009 due to being one of the most representative cultural expressions of Catholicism in the Andean region of Peru.

If you plan to visit Cusco for Christmas, be sure to include the Santurantikuy in your itinerary. This event is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and live an unforgettable experience.

Dare to discover the magic of Santurantikuy and all it has to offer!