With its wide range of traditional celebrations and festivities throughout the year, Arequipa is often referred to as a “cultural oasis” in Peru. From religious processions to national celebrations of independence, these colorful events have the potential to really liven up your trip to Arequipa with a little local flavor.
This day commemorates the day in which the kings came down to visit the newborn baby Jesus. Mollendo celebrates the anniversary of creation. The population participates in gastronomic fairs, concerts on the beach, as well as a serenade in honor of the city's anniversary.
In some communities of Arequipa, patron saint festivals are held in honor of the Virgen de la Candelaria. The celebrations begin with a sale of local drinks. Following this, religious services and processions are held on the main streets.
This festival takes place before Easter, in honor of Jesus of Nazareth. This festival is mainly celebrated in the traditional district of Paucarpata.
Considered the most important traditional festival in Peru since colonial times, there are many processions that remember the sacrifice and death of Jesus Christ over the span of eight days.
In this occasion, thousands of pilgrims come from different parts of the country as well as from neighboring countries in order to sing, chant and pray to the Virgin of Chapi. The main celebration takes place approximately 50 km away from the city of Arequipa.
A celebration in which homage is paid to the hard-working and hopeful men of the countryside who harvest and tend to Peruvian soil. During this time, the people of the countryside are remembered while bull fights and festivals are held in celebration.
In the district of Cabanaconde, dancers perform the “Dance of "The Turks", which represents the struggle of the Indian against Spanish rule.
The day in which the city was founded is celebrated with parades, beauty pageants, showcases of dancing and competitions on El Misti. There is a large firework show on August 14th in the Plaza de Armas which is a spectacular sight.
This celebration is held in the towns of Socabaya and Aplao in the Arequipa region. Festivities include a fantastic display of Peruvian folklore, celebrating the Virgin of the Rocks.
A time when the Huaraku (Andean olympiad) and the lord of miracles are celebrated in certain towns of Arequipa.
The anniversary of Camana is celebrated mainly with food fairs. This is the perfect opportunity to sample the best food Arequipa has to offer. Further festivities include a school parade and raft races from the Bridge of Punta Colorada in Aplao.
This is a celebration of folklore that takes is carried out in the towns of Chivay Yanque, with groups of dancers and bands. These performances include many traditional dances, such as the "Wititi".
