Would you like to learn about the most important festivals in Cusco? In this complete guide, we share the dates you shouldn’t miss! Cusco is not only the historical capital of Peru, but also one of the most important cultural destinations in South America. Throughout the year, the city and its communities celebrate religious, Andean, and civic festivities that reflect centuries of living history. This Cusco festival calendar will help you discover the most important dates to plan your trip and enjoy an authentic experience in the Imperial City.
Main Festivals of Cusco: Tradition, Culture, and Celebration
Experience the main festivals of Cusco: Holy Week, Corpus Christi, Inti Raymi, and many more await you in the Imperial City. Enjoy a complete immersion in culture, history, and tradition while taking part in unforgettable adventures.
Cusco’s festivities take place throughout the year; however, it is in June when the Imperial region fills its streets with color, joy, and dances to celebrate Cusco during its jubilee month. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of these festivities that have transcended time for centuries.
Annual Festival and Celebration Calendar of Cusco 2026
January
- January 1 – New Year’s Day: The beginning of the year with family celebrations and events in the Plaza de Armas.
- January 6 – Epiphany and the Child of San Cristóbal: A religious tradition with processions and masses.
- January 17 – Saint Anthony the Abbot and San Cristóbal: Blessing of animals and popular activities.
- January 20 – San Sebastián: One of the largest festivals in Cusco’s traditional districts.
- January 25 to February 8 – Virgin of Candelaria: A celebration that combines Catholic faith and folkloric dances.
February
- February 20 – Compadres Thursday: Traditional games among men.
- February 27 – Comadres Thursday: A women’s celebration and friendly rivalry.
March – April
- March 2 – Carnival Sunday: Main parades and competitions.
- March 29 to April 5 – Holy Week: Solemn processions and religious rituals of great cultural importance.
May
- May 1 – Labor Day: Civic activities and a national holiday.
- Second Sunday of May – Mother’s Day: A deeply rooted family celebration.
- May 18 – International Museum Day: Free entry and cultural activities in Cusco’s museums.
June
- June 7 – Flag Day: Civic ceremonies and parades.
- June 14 to 17 – Pilgrimage of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i: One of the most important pilgrimages in the Andes.
- Third Sunday of June – Father’s Day: A family celebration.
- June 21 – Andean New Year: An ancestral ritual celebrating the winter solstice.
- June 24 – Inti Raymi: The Festival of the Sun, Cusco’s most iconic celebration.
- June 29 – Saint Peter and Saint Paul: A religious festival honoring the patron saints.
July
- July 28 and 29 – Peru’s Independence Day: Parades, official events, and national celebrations.
August
- August 1 – Pachamama Day: Offerings to Mother Earth in Andean communities.
- August 9 – International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples: Recognition of native communities.
September
- September 14 – Lord of Huanca: An important religious pilgrimage.
- September 18 – Warachicuy: An ancient Inca ceremony dedicated to young people.
- September 23 – Spring and Youth Day: Cultural and student celebrations.
- September 30 – Patron Saint of San Jerónimo: A traditional district celebration.
October
- October 18 – Lord of Miracles: Religious processions of great devotion.
- October 31 – Creole Song Day and Halloween: Cultural traditions and modern celebrations.
November
- November 1 – All Saints’ Day: Religious and gastronomic traditions.
- November 2 – All Souls’ Day: Visits to cemeteries and family rituals.
- November 4 – Tribute to Túpac Amaru: A historical commemoration.
December
- December 24 – Christmas Eve and Santurantikuy Fair: Cusco’s traditional handicraft fair.
- December 25 – Christmas: A religious and family celebration.
- December 31 – New Year’s Eve: Farewell to the year with rituals and celebrations.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Cusco for Its Festivals?
If you want to experience Cusco at its cultural peak, the months of June and July are ideal. However, each season offers unique celebrations that allow you to discover different local traditions, making any time of the year perfect depending on your interests.
Plan Your Trip to Cusco
Planning your visit according to the Cusco festival calendar will allow you to enjoy not only its landscapes and archaeological sites, but also its vibrant living culture. Plan your next trip to Cusco with Travel Peru Agency and enjoy an unforgettable experience full of tradition, history, and adventure.