Fiestas Patrias in Cusco: Take advantage of your long holiday

Welcome to our blog where we will explore the vibrant Fiestas Patrias celebrations in Cusco, immersing ourselves in the rich culture and traditions that make this holiday special. Want to know how patriotism is lived and make the most of your long holiday in the imperial city? Read on to find out!

How do you live the Fiestas Patrias in Cusco?

The Fiestas Patrias in Cusco begin weeks in advance. The streets are decked out with flags, lights and patriotic decorations. Excitement is in the air, and the people of Cusco prepare to celebrate with a series of events and activities.

Emblematic Events

During these dates, the Plaza de Armas on July 28 becomes the epicenter of the celebration. First thing in the morning, the red and white flag is raised, accompanied by civic parades, cultural presentations and live concerts that fill the heart of the city. At night, fireworks light up the sky, creating an impressive spectacle that reflects the festive spirit of the occasion.
During these dates, the Plaza de Armas on July 28th becomes the epicenter of the celebration. This celebration begins very early in the morning with the raising of the red and white flag in the Plaza de Armas to move on to the other events of the day.

Raising of the peruvian flag in the plaza de armas of Cusco

Religious events

Peru being a very believing and religious country attends the masses in the cathedral of Cusco commemorating and thanking Don Jose de San Martin for the accomplishment of one more year of the Independence of Peru.

Parades, dances and music

For these the 13 provinces of Cusco gather in the main square to march to make this more exciting each province presents a typical dance among them are Danza de Capac Chuncho, Danza Mestiza Qoyacha, Danza de los negritos and more.

Civic Parades

Local schools march in the parade ground and compete for the best performance in front of the podium.

Military Parade

This performance takes place in the avenue la cultura and you will be able to see divisions of the Peruvian Army with their tanks and combat trucks.

Night Party

After the burning of the castles and the fireworks show. Most of the bars near the Plaza de Armas offer the emblematic Pisco Sour accompanied by music where you can talk and enjoy the atmosphere, if you want to continue there are some discos that are open late at night.

Gastronomy during Fiestas Patrias:

Food plays a crucial role in the celebrations. Restaurants and street stalls offer a delicious variety of traditional dishes. Such as Chiri Uchu, Chairo Soup, Kapchi de Zetas, Choclo con queso and the delicious tamal cusqueño.

Chiri Uchu

Other ways to enjoy the Fiestas Patrias in Cusco:

If you are planning to enjoy the Fiestas Patrias in Cusco in a unique and exciting way, you can combine the parades with the different tours in Cusco to live unforgettable experiences. Here are some fascinating options to make the most of this patriotic celebration:

1. Cultural Tour through the Historic Center: Embark on a guided city tour that will take you through the most emblematic places of Cusco’s.Historic Center. Discover the history behind the colonial architecture, explore the lively squares and immerse yourself in the local culture. This tour will allow you to appreciate the beauty of Cusco during the Fiestas Patrias, with expert guides who will share fascinating stories about the city.
2. Patriotic Gastronomic Tour: Explore the authentic flavors of Peruvian gastronomy during the Fiestas Patrias. A gastronomic tour will take you to the most outstanding restaurants in Cusco, where you can taste traditional dishes and unique culinary experiences. Celebrate the diversity and exquisiteness of Peruvian food while enjoying the festive atmosphere that surrounds the city.
3. Nearby Ruins Tour: Take advantage of the Fiestas Patrias to explore the fascinating Inca ruins near Cusco. Tours to sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Qenko and Tambomachay will give you a unique insight into Inca history and architecture. In addition, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city during this festive season.
4. Machu Picchu Tour: Give yourself the opportunity to explore the lost city and discover why Machu Picchu is a unique experience. From the mystique of its ruins to the energy that emanates from this place, a tour to Machu Picchu on Fiestas Patrias will be an unforgettable experience full of culture and connection with the wonder of the ancient civilization.
5. Nature Adventure Tour: For those looking for a more active experience, opt for a nature adventure tour. Do activities such as:
   • > Inca Trail Trekking, Salkantay Treking, Colored Mountain, Humantay Lagoon, Ausangate, Lares Valley or Inca Jungle.
   • > Cycling, horseback riding and quad biking in the Sacred Valley of the Incas or Abode of the Gods.
   • > You can even go rafting on the Urubamba River with the beautiful scenery that surrounds it. The Fiestas Patrias become even more exciting when you connect with nature and enjoy the geographic diversity of the region.

Recommendations for maximum enjoyment:

If you are planning to live the Fiestas Patrias in Cusco, here are some key recommendations. Also, do not forget that during these dates Cusco is very crowded so it is advisable to book your hotel months in advance.

• > A hotel close to the action: Explore lodging options carefully looking at the services and so you don’t miss out on any of the events for national holidays in Cusco book a hotel near the Plaza de Armas, like our cozy hotel in Cusco that offer comfort and proximity to the festivities.
• > Be careful with the altitude: If you are not used to high altitudes like the one in Cusco, we recommend spending a day or half a day acclimatizing in Cusco before a big activity such as tours or events. Remember that every body is different and some only require a few hours for complete acclimatization.
• > Wear warm clothes: Cusco mornings and evenings are usually cold reaching 3 ° C so we recommend wearing jackets, gloves and a scarf.
• > Protect yourself from the sun: When the sun bathes the city of Cusco, which is usually from 9 am, you have to protect your skin using a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and moisturizer if necessary.
• > Bring cash: At this time of year there is a lot of delicious street food or sun drinks that you may want to try so bring cash in soles as many local merchants do not accept dollars or cards.
• > Use mosquito repellent: If hiking or trekking in hot areas like Inca Trail, Inca Jungle or Machu Picchu you better use mosquito repellent or you will end up with bites all over your body.

Ready to dive into the celebration? Come and find out for yourself!.Hopefully this informative blog has helped you live or learn about the exciting Fiestas Patrias in Cusco, ensuring that readers are immersed in the cultural richness of the celebration.