Festivals and events in Cusco in January and February
Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire, is a city full of traditions, and the first months of the year are filled with colorful celebrations that blend Andean customs and Catholic influences. If you’re visiting in January or February, here are the most important festivals you shouldn’t miss!
🌟 January Festivities in Cusco
Cusco welcomes the New Year with fireworks, music, and dancing in the Plaza de Armas. Many locals and visitors gather at night to celebrate, making it one of the liveliest events of the year.
This religious celebration honors the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Families attend special Masses, and in San Blas and San Pedro markets, you’ll find figurines representing baby Jesus, which locals take to be blessed.
This festival honors San Sebastián, the patron saint of Cusco’s San Sebastián district. The celebration includes:
- A colorful procession carrying the saint’s image.
- Traditional music and dances performed in the streets.
- Andean food, including lechón (roast pork) and chiriuchu (a local specialty).
🎭 February Festivities in Cusco
One of the most fun and playful festivals in Cusco!
- Water fights: Locals and tourists throw water balloons, spray foam, and even use buckets of water in the streets.
- Traditional dances and music: People in bright costumes dance through the city.
- Puchero, a delicious Andean stew, is the signature dish of this celebration.
A fun tradition where men and women tease each other by giving out humorous dolls (muñecas) or gifts representing their “compadres” and “comadres.” It’s a warm and lively celebration before the Cusco Carnival.
While the biggest celebration takes place in Puno, Cusco also hosts events honoring the Virgen de la Candelaria, featuring:
- Masses and processions with traditional Andean and Catholic elements.
- Dances with colorful costumes, especially from the Quechua and Aymara traditions.