Discover the Carnivals in Cusco 2024: A Festival of Colors and Traditions

Carnivals in Cusco are much more than just a party. They are an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this Peruvian region. Below, we will provide you with all the information you need to live this unique experience in 2024.

Carnivals in Cusco 2024: Dates and Traditions

The celebration of Carnivals in Cusco in 2024 is scheduled to take place from February 1st to February 18th. During this period, the city will be filled with festive energy with parades, dances and events celebrating the cultural roots of the region. Here is a small calendar of the activities that will take place in Cusco.

Tradition with Compadres and comadres

In Cusco’s vibrant Carnivals, the tradition of compadres and comadres adds a special touch to the celebration. This charming ritual consists of people choosing, informally and with laughter, their compadres and comadres during the festivities. From this symbolic bond, an affective connection is established between friends, relatives or acquaintances, strengthened by the participation in different carnival activities.

Comadres and compadres share moments of joy, share jokes and engage in various traditional Carnival festivities. Symbolic gifts are exchanged and camaraderie is fostered through joint participation in signature events, such as the yunza, where collaboration and festive spirit combine to create lasting memories.
This beautiful tradition not only adds a playful component to Cusco’s Carnivals, but also strengthens social ties and promotes unity among the community.

Central Day

The central day of the Carnivals in Cusco marks the climax of the festivity, filling the streets of the imperial city with contagious energy and vibrant colors. Usually this day is a Sunday where the main square and its streets become the stage for parades, dances and traditional music, where local groups exhibit their colorful costumes and perform choreographies full of vitality. In addition, the winning compadres and comadres dolls will be on display.

The central day of Carnivals in Cusco is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authenticity of local traditions, experience the hospitality of the people of Cusco and live the magic of a celebration in which you can play with water, foam, streamers and colored powders.

Carnival Auction or Kacharpari

The Remate de Carnavales in Cusco marks the spectacular closing of a festival full of life and traditions in the majestic imperial city. This exciting event takes place a week after the central day. In the Plaza de Armas it is said goodbye with music and games, on the contrary, in the neighborhoods of Cusco where the yunza or cortamonte takes place.

Enjoy Unique Traditions

Carnivals in Cusco are famous for their deep-rooted traditions. Iconic dances such as Qhapaq Qolla, La contradanza, wallata dance, Cholo Qorilazo and the iconic Carnaval Cusqueño dance with its colorful costumes, reflect the rich cultural heritage in Cusco.

Carnival Gastronomy

As all the festivities in Cusco, carnivals are not left behind with its dishes, here we present the most delicious and significant dishes of this festival.

Start with the fresh Kapchi, a vibrant mixture of beans, seasoned potatoes, milk and cheese or mushrooms, highlighted by the perfect company of a stuffed rocoto and rice.

Move on to delight yourself with Timbu, also known as puchero cusqueño, an exquisite combination of parboiled meats, potatoes, chickpeas, rice, cabbage leaves, sweet potatoes, peaches, yuccas, pears and moraya, presented in two different dishes or in one, creating a multi-sensory experience.

Also, refresh your palate with the Frutillada, an emblematic drink of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, prepared with chicha de jora and boiled strawberries with lemon verbena and cinnamon. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste chicha de jora on its own or as a base for more elaborate drinks, and discover the delicious culinary tradition that defines Cusco’s Carnivals!

Not to be missed during Carnivals

• > Plaza de Armas: The epicenter of the action, where the parades and main events take place.
• > Traditional Neighborhoods: Explore local neighborhoods where the festivities take on an authentic touch as you will see the Yunza celebration that consists of taking down a tree adorned with gifts and sweets, this act symbolizes abundance and prosperity for the coming year, while community collaboration strengthens social ties.

Carnivals in Cusco: Tips for Maximum Enjoyment

If you plan to be part of this festivity, here are some useful tips to ensure you get the most out of your experience.

• > Plan ahead: With the exact dates we have given you for Carnivals 2024, this will allow you to book accommodation and activities such as tours.
• > Choose your Ideal Lodging: To enjoy the traditional local experiences, book lodging close to the main square, this will allow for more interaction.
• > Dress for the occasion: Immerse yourself in the festive culture and wear colorful and cheerful clothing.
• > Connect with locals and other travelers: Attend special events such as concerts and cultural shows, experience them with water, streamers and colors.
• > Taste the local cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the delicious local food at the market or street food stalls that will make your experience even more memorable.
• > Capture special moments: Take a camera with you or use your phone to capture your special moments.
• > Be respectful of traditions: Respectfully participate in the festivities and respect local traditions.
• > Don’t be afraid to dance: Let go of inhibitions and join in the fun! Dancing and music are fundamental elements of Carnivals, so don’t hesitate to join the dance floor.
• > Keep your stuff: Use waterproof bags for your important electronics such as cell phones, cameras and watches as playing with water and foam can get your items wet or damaged.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Carnivals in Cusco in 2024. From the rich tradition to the exciting celebration, this unique experience will leave you with unforgettable memories – don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this vibrant festivity! If you would like more information or need help planning your stay, don’t hesitate to contact us! We are here to make your Carnival experience exceptional.

Extra fact

Carnivals in Cusco are not limited to the capital of the department, since several provinces also join this beautiful festivity. For example:

• > Sacred Valley of the Incas, which includes localities such as Urubamba, Qoya, Pisac, Lamay and Yanahuara.
• > South Valley, which includes Canchis, Oropesa and San Jeronimo, celebrate this tradition with enthusiasm.
• > District of Tinta, where it is said that women play a dominant role.
• > Calca and Mollepata, where the “single and married” yunzas take place, which is similar to the traditional yunza, the difference being that it involves married and single couples with the common goal of felling a tree to the rhythm of typical songs and huaynos.