Public Holidays in Cusco 2026: Complete Calendar with Dates
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24 de February de 2026
Festivities in Cusco 2026 reflect the deep cultural, religious, and Andean identity of the imperial city. Throughout the year, Cusco celebrates processions, ancestral rituals, carnivals, and traditional fairs that combine Inca heritage and colonial legacy.
Below is a summary table with the main celebrations of the year and a brief explanation of each one.
Summary Table of Festivities in Cusco 2026
| Date | Festivity | Location | What Is It About? |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 6 | Epiphany Descent (Bajada de Reyes) | Ollantaytambo | Closing of the Christmas celebrations with processions, dances, and a reenactment of the Three Wise Men. |
| January 20 | San Sebastián | San Sebastián District | Procession of the patron saint accompanied by food fairs, traditional dances, and fireworks. |
| February 15 | Cusco Carnival | Entire city | Popular celebration blending Andean and European traditions with music, water games, and dances. |
| March 30 | Lord of the Earthquakes | Plaza de Armas | Procession of Cusco’s patron saint during Holy Week, symbol of protection since the 1650 earthquake. |
| May 2-3 | Cruz Velacuy | Cusco and surrounding communities | Veneration of crosses in neighborhoods and hills, combining Christian tradition and Andean worldview. |
| June 15-18 | Lord of Qoyllority | Qoyllority Sanctuary | Deeply devoted Andean pilgrimage featuring groups of dancers, traditional troupes, and mountain rituals. |
| June 19 | Corpus Christi | Plaza de Armas | Procession of saints and virgins to the Cathedral, accompanied by traditional dances and local gastronomy. |
| June 24 | Inti Raymi | Sacsayhuamán | Reenactment of the ancient Inca Festival of the Sun marking the winter solstice. |
| July 15 | Virgin of Carmen | Paucartambo | Folkloric celebration featuring emblematic dances such as the Saqras and the Chunchos. |
| August 1 | Pachamama Day | Sacsayhuamán and Apus | Andean rituals of gratitude to Mother Earth with traditional offerings. |
| September 14 | Lord of Huanca | San Salvador | Mass pilgrimage to a sanctuary located in a colonial-era cave. |
| December 24 | Santurantikuy | Plaza de Armas | Traditional Christmas fair where nativity scenes and handicrafts are sold. |
| December 31 | New Year in Cusco | Historic Center | Celebration with Andean rituals, music, and fireworks to welcome the new year. |
Conclusion
Festivities in Cusco 2026 turn every month of the year into an opportunity to experience history, faith, and Andean culture. From religious celebrations to ancestral rituals such as Inti Raymi and Pachamama, Cusco offers unique experiences that go beyond traditional tourism.
Planning a trip around these dates will allow visitors to discover the living essence of the imperial city.