The month of December is a special time in Peru, marked by a series of festivities and celebrations that reflect the rich culture and traditions of this South American country. From Christmas festivities to unique cultural events, December offers Peruvians and visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the magic of this vibrant country.
Christmas Eve and Christmas (December 24-25)
The celebration of Christmas Eve and Christmas is one of the most important festivities in Peru. Peruvian families gather for Misa de Gallo on Christmas Eve and then enjoy a festive dinner that often includes traditional dishes such as stuffed turkey, panetón, and hot chocolate. In some regions, such as Cusco and Ayacucho, the "Chocolatada" custom is performed, where people share hot chocolate and panetón with the less fortunate. In addition to family celebrations, many cities and towns host special events, parades, and cultural activities to commemorate Christmas. A prominent example is the Great Christmas Corso in Lima, a colorful parade that attracts thousands of spectators.
The Inti Raymi (December 24)
The Inti Raymi, or "Fiesta del Sol", is an ancient Inca festival celebrated in various places in Peru during the winter solstice, which usually occurs around December 24. This celebration is a token of gratitude to the Sun god for a successful agricultural cycle and marks the beginning of the Andean New Year.
In Cusco, one of the most important cities of the ancient Inca empire, a recreation of Inti Raymi takes place in the Sacsayhuamán fortress. This is a unique experience for visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the rich history and Inca culture.
Feast of the Virgen de la Puerta (December 15)
The Fiesta de la Virgen de la Puerta, also known as the "Fiesta de la Virgen del Santuario" or simply "La Virgen de la Puerta", is a religious and cultural festival that is celebrated on December 15 in the city of Otuzco, located in the La Libertad region, in northern Peru. This festivity has a long tradition and is one of the most important and popular in the region.
The Fiesta de la Virgen de la Puerta has its roots in a legend that tells how the image of the Virgin Mary, which today is venerated in Otuzco, came to this city. According to legend, in the 16th century, when the Spanish were in the process of conquest of Peru, the image of the Virgen de la Puerta was being transferred from Spain to Lima.
At one point along the way, the porters who were carrying the image decided to rest and left the box that contained it on the ground. When trying to continue on their way, they found the box so heavy that it was impossible to lift it. Considering this as a divine sign, the locals decided that the image of the Virgin Mary should remain there and built a small sanctuary on that spot.
The Fiesta de la Virgen de la Puerta is an occasion in which the inhabitants of Otuzco and pilgrims from other regions of the country come together to pay homage to the Virgin Mary. The celebrations last several days and attract thousands of people each year. Some of the most prominent activities and events during the holiday include:
Processions: Processions are carried out in which the image of the Virgin is carried on a litter through the streets of Otuzco, accompanied by music, songs and dances. The processions are moments of great devotion and faith for the participants.
Masses and religious ceremonies: Masses and religious ceremonies are celebrated in the sanctuary of the Virgen de la Puerta and in the main church of Otuzco. These ceremonies are opportunities for the faithful to express their prayers and thanks.
Fair and markets: During the festivity, fairs and markets are set up in the main squares, where merchants sell a wide variety of products, from typical foods to handicrafts and souvenirs.
Dances and folk music: Dances and traditional music are an essential part of the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Puerta. Groups of dancers dressed in colorful costumes perform folk dances that represent aspects of local culture and history.
Gastronomy: During the festivity, it is common to find food stalls that offer typical dishes of the region, such as guinea pig, tamales and other local delicacies.
Feast of Saint Thomas (December 21)
In the city of Chichicastenango, in the El Quiché region of Guatemala, the traditional "Feria de Santo Tomás" is celebrated on December 21 of each year. This is one of the most important indigenous festivals in Guatemala and attracts thousands of visitors, both national and foreign.
During the Santo Tomás Fair, cultural activities, folkloric dances, parades and craft markets take place. It is an opportunity for locals and tourists to come together to celebrate and preserve the ancient traditions of the region.
National Marinera Competition (December)
The marinera is a typical dance from Peru that reflects the elegance and grace of the Peruvian people. Every year, in the month of December, the National Marinera Contest is held in Trujillo, a city known for its cultural and folkloric importance. The contest attracts dancers and spectators from all over the country, who gather to watch the exciting competitions and appreciate the artistry's prowess. In addition to the contest, other cultural activities and events related to the sailor are held, making Trujillo the epicenter of Peruvian dance in December.
Peru offers locals and visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic and diversity of this wonderful South American country. If you have the opportunity to visit Peru in December, an unforgettable experience awaits you, full of joy, music, dance and color. Do not miss it!