Highlights of Festivals and Events in Peru for October
If you’re heading to Peru this October, you’ll discover a rich selection of religious festivals and cultural events expressed across the nation. Key highlights feature a national holiday commemorating the Battle of Angamos, along with El Señor de los Milagros, recognized as the largest religious gathering in South America.
Tierra Prometida de Pozuzo Livestock and Ecotourism Festival
Normally during the first weeks of October, Oxapampa
The “Promised Land of Pozuzo” festival takes place in Pozuzo, located in the Oxapampa province of Peru. Established by European colonists from Tyrol (Austria) and Prussia (Germany) in 1859, Pozuzo is known for its distinct customs and became a significant cattle ranching area. This festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the region, featuring local cuisine, economy, and various traditions. Attendees can expect motocross contests, cockfights, and traditional dance performances.
Día de la Marinera
October 7, Nationwide
This day honors one of Peru’s most beautiful and cherished dances, the marinera. Festivities feature marinera dance displays and contests, primarily organized in Lima and along the coastal regions of Peru.
Battle of Angamos
October 8, National Holiday
On October 8, 1879, the Chilean navy achieved a significant victory over the Peruvian fleet during the War of the Pacific. Though it marked a tragic loss, this date is commemorated as a national holiday in Peru, honoring Admiral Miguel Grau Seminario, recognized as Peru’s greatest modern hero. Major towns and cities hold military parades to remember this pivotal moment in history.
Piura Jubilee Week
Held During the First Two Weeks of October (exact dates vary), Piura
This week is a vibrant celebration of Piura’s cultural heritage, showcasing local music, traditional cuisine, and various arts and crafts throughout the day. The nights are filled with lively parties that continue the celebrations late into the evening.
Señor Cautivo de Ayabaca
October 13, Ayabaca
Located approximately 130 miles northeast of Piura, Ayabaca houses the revered image of Señor Cautivo de Ayabaca. According to legend, angels disguised as three poncho-clad strangers carved this image in 1751. Each year, pilgrims from both Peru and Ecuador embark on a heartfelt journey to Ayabaca, singing and praying along the way. Although the main event occurs on October 13, parades grace the flower-strewn streets of Ayabaca throughout the month.
El Señor de los Milagros
October, Lima
In the mid-17th century, Angolan slaves created a mural of a crucified Christ in their Lima meeting spot. Following a devastating earthquake in 1655, this mural surprisingly remained intact, inspiring many to regard it as miraculous. Today, this image serves as the centerpiece of the largest religious congregation in South America, with processions beginning early in October and major events primarily taking place on October 18, 19, and 28. Devotees, clad in purple robes, follow the image through the streets of Lima adorned in similar hues.
Señor de Luren
Third Monday of October, Ica
The miraculous story of the Señor de Luren dates back to the mid-1500s, having allegedly gone missing at sea and later reappearing in Luren village. Each year, this wooden image, honoring the patron saint of Ica, is ceremoniously paraded through city streets during an elaborate procession.
Fiesta Patronal de Santa Úrsula
October 21 to 24 (dates vary), Viraco, Arequipa
This well-loved festival in the Arequipa region showcases traditional spectacles such as bullfights and cockfights, accompanied by stunning fireworks and festive street parades.
Día de la Canción Criolla
October 31, Lima
Music enthusiasts will appreciate this special day dedicated to the celebration of Peruvian música criolla, a delightful fusion of African, Spanish, and Andean influences. The lively festivities include music, dancing, and traditional cuisine, creating a joyful atmosphere with a backdrop of Halloween.
Anniversaries
In Peru, the anniversary of a town or city generally entails several days of vibrant festivities. In October, two jungle towns celebrate their origins: Pucallpa and Surrounding Communities (October 4 to 20) and Tingo Maria (October 15).
