Top 10 Festivals and Celebrations in South America
South America is a continent that boasts a rich and varied culture, which is evident in the numerous festivals and celebrations that occur all year round. From the renowned Rio Carnival to the Inti Raymi Sun Festival in Peru, there is always something for everyone to enjoy.
A trip to South America during one of its many festivals can be an incredible experience. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture fully, sample the delicious food, and enjoy the vibrant music and dancing.
Welcome to the merriment!
South American festivals are known for their lively atmosphere, with people singing, dancing, and enjoying the festivities in the streets. If you’re looking for an unparalleled and unforgettable travel adventure, consider visiting South America during one of its numerous festivals. You will not regret it!
Tomorrowland, May
Every May, the city of Itu in Brazil hosts Tomorrowland Brasil, the sister festival of the original Tomorrowland in Belgium. Tomorrowland Brasil is a top-rated festival with a worldwide audience that offers an unforgettable experience. The festival has an impressive lineup of world-class DJs and producers, with elaborate stage productions that include pyrotechnics and beautiful scenery, all unique to the festival. Tomorrowland Brasil is more than just a music festival; it’s a cultural experience. You’ll find a variety of food and drink vendors, art installations, and other activities.
If you are a fan of electronic dance music, then Tomorrowland Brasil is a must-do festival. It’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Señor de Los Milagros, October
The El Señor de los Milagros Festival, also known as the Lord of Miracles Festival, is a religious celebration in October in Peru and other parts of South America. It is one of the region’s largest and most renowned religious festivals, attracting millions of pilgrims annually. The festival commemorates the miraculous painting of Jesus Christ, known as the Lord of Miracles. The painting will be paraded through the city streets during the festival. Try to participate in the grand procession that draws millions of people from all over the world. The image of the Lord of Miracles is carried on a silver float through the streets of Lima. It will be a moving experience, illustrating the profound faith of the Peruvian people.
Aside from being a religious celebration, El Señor de los Milagros Festival is also a cultural event that honours the rich traditions of Peru!
Fiesta de la Tirana, July
The Fiesta de la Tirana Festival is a religious celebration in La Tirana, located in the Tarapacá Region of northern Chile. This festival is held on July 16 in honour of the Virgen del Carmen, also known as the Lady of Mount Carmel or “Carmelita”. The festival begins on July 10, with the opening of the doors of the Sanctuary of La Tirana. On July 15, the night before the festival, there is a parade of the Virgen del Carmen through the streets of La Tirana, accompanied by music, dancing, and fireworks. On July 16, the main day of the festival, a mass is held at the Sanctuary of La Tirana, followed by another procession of the Virgen del Carmen through the streets of La Tirana.
It is a time for people to unite and celebrate their shared faith and culture.
Day of the Dead, November
The Day of the Dead, also known as Día de Muertos in Spanish, is a Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. This holiday is a beautiful combination of Aztec and Catholic cultures, focusing on remembering our family and friends who have passed away. Instead of being a somber event, the Day of the Dead is a joyous celebration of life. During this holiday, people create ofrendas or altars in their homes to honour the memories of their deceased loved ones. On the Day of the Dead, people dress in traditional Mexican clothing such as charro suits and huipiles. Others may dress up in costumes or makeup that resemble skeletons or other supernatural creatures. It’s worth to watch!
It is a time to celebrate life and reflect on the importance of family and community.
Semana Santa, March/April
Semana Santa, also known as Holy Week, is one of Latin America’s most significant religious holidays. Semana Santa starts on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday. Various religious events occurred during this time, including processions, masses, and Stations of the Cross. The most famous event is the procession of the Cross, which takes place on Good Friday. The processions are large and elaborate, drawing millions of people from all over the world. They are accompanied by music, dancing, and floats that depict the different scenes of the Passion of Christ.
It brings people together to celebrate their shared faith and culture.
Corpus Christi Festival, June
Corpus Christi is a Christian holiday commemorating Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist. It is observed on the Thursday following Trinity Sunday, which falls on the ninth Sunday after Easter. Watch the procession of the Blessed Sacrament, where a container made of glass and metal called a monstrance carries the Blessed Sacrament through the streets. You can watch alfombras (carpets) made of flowers and other materials, often decorated with religious symbols and scenes from the Bible. Walk on them to pay their respects to the Blessed Sacrament. Enjoy traditional foods such as tamales, empanadas, and dulce de leche, being served frequently.
Let us honour and commemorate the true existence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Tango Festival, August
The Tango Festival is a significant cultural event in Buenos Aires, Argentina, every year in February. It celebrates the tango, a passionate dance that originated in the city’s working-class neighbourhoods in the late 19th century. The festival comprises numerous events such as dance performances, workshops, and milongas (tango dance parties). The world’s best tango dancers and musicians participate in the festival. The World Tango Championship, held on the festival’s last night, is one of the main attractions. The championship is a prestigious event that draws dancers from all over the world. The Tango Festival is an excellent opportunity to experience the rich culture of Buenos Aires.
Meet the passionate tango passionate dancers!
Tapati Festival, February
The Tapati Festival is an annual traditional Polynesian festival celebrated in February on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile. The festival aims to celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the Rapa Nui people. It offers various events, including dance and singing competitions, sports competitions, handicraft demonstrations, and religious ceremonies. One of the main attractions of the Tapati Festival is the Haka Pei, a body painting competition where participants decorate their bodies with traditional Rapa Nui designs. Watch the creativity and artistry of the Rapa Nui people. We recommend checking out if you ever find yourself in Rapa Nui during the Tapati Festival.
It is an unforgettable experience!
Mistura Food Festival, September
The Mistura Food Festival is a yearly event held in Lima, Peru, and is the largest food festival in South America. The festival celebrates Peruvian cuisine, which is famous for its diversity and richness. The event showcases Peruvian dishes, from traditional ones like ceviche and lomo saltado to more contemporary and fusion cuisine. It has a range of food demonstrations, workshops, live music, and cultural events. Mistura is a famous festival among locals and tourists, offering an excellent opportunity to sample various Peruvian foods and learn more about the country’s culinary culture. If you ever find yourself in Lima during the Mistura Food Festival, check it out.
Own the experiences that you will never forget!
Mendoza Wine Harvest Festival, February to March
The Mendoza Wine Harvest Festival is an annual celebration in Mendoza, Argentina, which honours the grape harvest. The ceremony is a prayer for a successful winemaking season and a blessing of the new harvest. It is one of the world’s largest and most famous wine festivals, attracting visitors from all over the globe. The festival runs for two weeks during February and March, featuring various events such as wine tastings, food stalls, traditional music and dancing, and parades. One of the festival’s highlights is the Bendición de los Frutos (Blessing of the Fruits) ceremony. The Mendoza Wine Harvest Festival offers a unique opportunity to taste some of the best wines in the world.
If you ever find yourself in Mendoza during the Wine Harvest Festival, check it out—it’s an unforgettable experience.
Epilogue
Numerous festivals and celebrations take place in South America throughout the year. With such a variety, you can easily find the perfect festival that matches your interests and budget. If you’re planning a trip to South America, check the calendar of events to see which festivals and celebrations will occur during your visit. Adding a festival to your itinerary will make your trip even more memorable.
Get prepared for the voyage to merriment with Unimoni!