The month of April 2025 will be a significant period in Peru, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a deep bond with religious and festive traditions. From religious events to national celebrations, this month is full of opportunities to experience Peruvian culture at its best.
Religious Festivals in April in Peru
April is traditionally a key month in the Catholic religious calendar, especially since it is the month in which Holy Week is celebrated. In Peru, Holy Week is one of the largest and most significant religious holidays, with diverse cultural expressions that vary depending on the region. During this month, both devotees and tourists gather to participate in processions, masses and other religious activities.
Holy Week (April 13-20)
Holy Week in Peru has a strong cultural and spiritual charge, and is celebrated throughout the country. However, there are several regions in particular where this festivity takes on a special magnitude.
Ayacucho : Renowned for having one of the most traditional Holy Week celebrations in Peru, the city of Ayacucho is famous for its solemn processions, where thousands of people participate in the walks of faith that run through the streets of the city. The "Procession of the Lord of Miracles" is one of the most prominent, and the city is filled with devotees who gather to pay homage to the passion and death of Jesus Christ. The music of the bands, the incense burners and the liturgical chants create a unique atmosphere, deeply rooted in local customs.
Cusco : In Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, Holy Week is also a highly significant event. Throughout the week, masses and processions are held in the Plaza de Armas, where worshippers can take part in a series of religious rituals. In addition, the festival incorporates a mix of indigenous and Spanish traditions, making the celebration unique in its kind.
Lima : In the Peruvian capital, Holy Week is a holiday of great importance for believers. At the Convent of Santo Domingo and other historic churches in Lima, special masses are held and processions take place through the historic center of the city. One of the most anticipated is the procession of the "Lord of Miracles," which attracts thousands of people from all over the world.
Easter is not only an opportunity for spiritual reflection, but also to enjoy the country's culinary traditions. During these days, typical dishes such as "grilled fish" and the famous Easter "turrones" are prepared.
April holidays in Peru
April has several important holidays celebrated throughout the country. These days are an opportunity to rest, reflect, or enjoy special events. The holidays in April are as follows:
Holy Thursday (April 17, 2025) : Holy Thursday is a day of reflection for Christians, marked by the commemoration of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ. This day, although a holiday, is characterized by sobriety and devotion. Many people participate in masses and other religious celebrations.
Good Friday (April 18, 2025) : Good Friday is another of the most important days in Holy Week. It commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ, and is a day of mourning for Catholics. In many cities and towns across the country, processions are held depicting the final moments of Christ.
Holy Saturday (April 19, 2025) : Holy Saturday marks the end of Holy Week, and although it is not an official holiday, many communities celebrate it with masses and special events that mark the wait for Christ's resurrection.
Easter Sunday (April 20, 2025) : Although not an official holiday, Easter Sunday is a central date for Christians, as it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Churches are full of parishioners who celebrate this holiday with joy and hope.
Labor Day (May 1, 2025) : Although this holiday falls in May, it is important to mention it as a reminder of the labor rights that are celebrated throughout the country. Protests and marches in favor of workers' rights are held on this day.
Cultural Events and Festivals in April 2025
In addition to religious events, April is also a month when Peru hosts various cultural activities, festivals and celebrations. These activities reflect the country's cultural diversity and are a great way to enjoy Peruvian music, art and gastronomy.
Lima International Film Festival (April, date pending)
In April 2025, the Lima International Film Festival will likely be held once again, highlighting the best of Peruvian and Latin American cinema. This event has established itself as one of the most important in the region, bringing together filmmakers, actors, critics and film lovers in a series of screenings, talks and activities. Attendees have the opportunity to watch films that explore the rich culture of Peru and Latin America, as well as enjoy short films, documentaries and feature films that explore various social and cultural themes.
Ica Grape Harvest Festival (Date Pending)
The month of April is also known for the celebration of the Harvest Festival in the Ica region, famous for its vineyards and pisco production. This festival, which marks the beginning of the grape harvest, is a mix of folkloric celebrations, local gastronomy and, of course, tastings of the country's best piscos and wines. Visitors can enjoy music shows, traditional dances and the traditional "pisqueo" in the wineries of Ica.
Festival of the Cross of May (Date Pending)
In some regions of the country, especially in rural areas, the Fiesta de la Cruz de Mayo is celebrated, a holiday that has a mix of indigenous and Catholic influences. Homage is paid to the crosses that are placed in the streets and decorated with flowers. It is a festival that represents the integration of ancestral beliefs and Christian devotion.
Climate and Tourism in Peru in April
April is an ideal month to visit Peru, as the weather is usually pleasant in many regions of the country. The rainy season begins to ease in the Andes, and temperatures on the coast are cool, but not extreme. This makes it a perfect month to explore the diverse tourist destinations Peru has to offer, from coastal beaches to majestic mountains and historic cities.
Cusco and Machu Picchu : April is a great time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu, as the weather is milder, and while there may still be some rain, it is less likely to interfere with visits. Machu Picchu in particular is a destination that attracts thousands of tourists each year, and during April, visitor numbers begin to increase.
The Coast and Paracas : The beaches on the southern coast, such as those in Paracas and the Paracas National Reserve, offer a warmer climate and are ideal for those looking to relax by the sea. In addition, the flora and fauna of the area, such as sea lions and birds, make this region a perfect place for nature lovers.
April 2025 in Peru will be a month filled with religious, cultural and festive activities. From the solemn Holy Week to vibrant local celebrations, this month offers an immersion into the country’s traditions and customs. Whether traveling to one of the Andean regions to take part in processions or enjoying a festival on the coast, April promises to be a month of joy, reflection and, above all, a time to connect with Peru’s rich cultural heritage.