Christmas celebrations in Peru are a joyful time filled with family and celebrations, combining traditional traditions, religious ceremonies, and modern elements. People celebrate Christmas in different ways depending on their country, but certain common threads link everyone.
Christmas traditions in Peru are warm and cheerful, with delicious meals, ancient traditions, and love. Join us as we explore some of Peru’s cherished Christmas traditions!
La Nochebuena – Christmas Eve Celebration
“La Noche buena” (good night) or Christmas Eve is celebrated in Peru on December 24. Typically, families gather to share a big dinner, just like in many other countries. Peruvians see it as a time to enjoy with their loved ones, share stories, and celebrate together.
When it’s midnight, usually you can hear the sound of fireworks around you. This means the birth of Jesus Christ, according to catholicism. Families hug each other while sharing the best for this special occasion.
Delicious Christmas Food
Food plays a big role in Christmas celebrations in Peru. One of the most popular dishes is “Pavo” (Roasted Turkey). It is often served with a side of “Panetón”, a sweet bread filled with dried fruit, nuts, and sometimes chocolate. Paneton is Peru’s Christmas cake, and it’s a must-have on the dinner table.
There is no paneton without hot chocolate. So, even if the Andes region is cold and the Peruvian coast is hot during the summer, Peruvians still like the combo of hot chocolate and paneton. In the Andes region, another favorite is Lechón, which is a roasted pig. It’s common in some regions, especially in the countryside.
On the other side, in the Amazon region, people prefer the Juanes, a typical dish from Amazon cuisine. Whether you spend Christmas in the highlands, coast, or Amazon, these dishes make the Christmas feast in Peru truly special.
The Nativity Scene
Peruvian nativity scenes offer a delightful twist on the traditional ones seen in many Western countries. Instead of sheep and cows, you will often find llamas, alpacas, and other Peruvian camelids beside the Holy Family. These charming additions highlight the rich blend of ancient Inca traditions and Catholic beliefs.
One of the most cherished customs in Peru is creating the “Pesebre”, which shows the birth of Jesus Christ. You can see this tradition in homes, public spaces, and churches throughout the country. Pesebre features Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the shepherds, and the Three wise men
Many families craft detailed pesebres, adding animals, mountains, and rivers to show the humble setting of Jesus’s birth. In the Andes, it’s common for people to include figures from their own culture in the pesebre. You might see llamas, villagers in traditional clothing, or even retablo.
Retablo is an Andean handcraft that includes figures from their own culture in the pesebre. You might see llamas, villagers in traditional clothing, and more. This wonderful practice lets families celebrate Jesus’ birth and honor their local culture. It creates a rich, vibrant tradition.
El Niño Manuelito – Baby Jesus
In Peru, there is a special focus on El Niño Manuelito, or Baby Jesus, rather than Santa Claus. In Peru, many families cherish the belief that Baby Jesus, rather than Santa, brings gifts. On Christmas Eve, they place presents under the tree or by the “pesebre”, filling children with excitement as they await the gifts.
In various regions, some towns have stunning altars dedicated to Baby Jesus, where people come together to pray and celebrate his birth. It’s a wonderful way for families to connect with their faith and community.
Santurantikuy Traditions
This lively Andean market takes place from December 24th to December 25th at 12 am. Cusco’s stunning Plaza de Armas is the place that holds this ancient and fascinating market. The name “Santurantikuy,” which means “sale of saints” in the Quechua language, reflects the heart of this special event.
Artisans from all over Peru come together to showcase their wonderful handcrafted creations. You’ll discover everything from ceramic nativity scenes to intricate wood sculptures. This festival beautifully mixes Spanish colonial traditions with the Inca’s rich beliefs, making it a delightful experience for everyone. We hope to see you there!
Fireworks and Christmas Lights
On Christmas day, the celebration truly comes alive with stunning fireworks. Although using illegal fireworks is banned in Peru, authorities around Peru set up free shows including celebrations, music, and fireworks. The bright lights and cheerful sounds create a magical atmosphere that makes this time of year really special.
Homes shine brightly with Christmas lights and vibrant decorations. In Lima, the capital city, many people gather at Parque de la Reserva to enjoy an incredible Christmas light display. This enchanting scene, with its sparkling fountains and twinkling lights, brings everyone together, celebrating the spirit of the season
In Cusco, you can see Andean Christmas trees, all over the historic center, and in the main plazas, like Plaza de Armas. The lights and fireworks also create a nice and good vibe you can feel in the Andean city.
Christmas Baskets
Christmas baskets (Canastas navideñas as we call it in Spanish) are a cherished tradition in many Peruvian companies. During the holiday season, companies spread the Christmas spirit and take the chance to thank their employees for their hard work throughout the year by gifting the iconic Christmas baskets.
These baskets typically include traditional holiday treats such as wine, panettones, cookies, chocolates, and more. Although these baskets are aimed at working-class people in Peru, there are shopping malls where you can get your own basket!
Music and Dance
In Peru, music and dancing are vital during the holidays. “Black Christmas is especially popular in Lima and Peru’s northern areas. This style blends the rich influences of afro peruvian,Spanish, and Indigenous cultures. On Christmas Eve, families come together to enjoy music, sing traditional songs, and dance with joy.
Some of the favorite Christmas songs in Peru include “Campanita de Navidad” and “Mi Burrito Sabanero” performed by “Los Toribianitos” a Peruvian children’s choir known for its beautiful Christmas music with Andean instruments. These lovely songs and dances boost the festive spirit, creating a warm, holiday atmosphere for celebrating with family and friends.
The Meaning of Christmas in Peru
For Peruvians, celebrating Christmas is a wonderful time to celebrate love, family, and hope. It’s a chance to gather with loved ones, share a delicious meal, and express gratitude for the good things in our lives. The birth of Jesus represents new beginnings, peace, and the love we share with one another.
During this festive season, many Peruvians also focus on helping those in need. Giving back to the community is a cherished part of the Christmas spirit in Peru. Whether it’s donating food, toys, or clothing, many people strive to make the holidays a bit brighter for others.
With rich traditions, lively music, and a strong sense of community, it stands out as one of the most important holidays in the country. From colorful fireworks to tasty meals and beautiful nativity scenes, Christmas in Peru truly feels magical.
No matter where you are in Peru, you can feel the love and joy that fill the air during this special season! To learn more about costumes and traditions in Peru, keep reading our blog! Viagens Machu Picchu also encourages you to discover what Peru has to offer for yourself.
We’ll be more than glad to assist you in discovering what the ancient inca land has to offer. Contact us to start planning your trip to our country, we’re waiting for you!
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