Cusco Carnival 2026: Official Dates and Top Events

Carnival in Cusco 2026 will be celebrated with gusto in February. Sunday, February 15 will be the most important day. From early in the morning, the Plaza de Armas will be filled with music and color. There will also be parades and dance troupes. Traditional dances will be performed. And, of course, the games with water, foam, and talcum powder will begin.

This festival does not last just one day. First come the Thursdays of compadres and comadres. Then, throughout the month, the yunzas appear in various neighborhoods. That is why Cusco feels like one big celebration in many streets. Finally, it all ends with the carnival finale.

Key Dates and Activities – Cusco Carnival 2026

• February 5, Compadres Thursday 
  First, the men are celebrated. On this day, the atmosphere becomes festive. In addition, some groups prepare dolls and jokes. Then the city begins to rev up its engines for what is to come.
• February 12, Comadres Thursday 
  Then comes the day for women. That’s why there are more gatherings and more music. There are also funny messages and creativity in the neighborhoods. Meanwhile, people get organized for the main weekend.
• Sunday, February 15. Main day – Cusco Carnival 
  This is the big day. From 9:00 a.m., the Plaza de Armas fills up. In addition, the comparsas pass through the historic center. Then bands and singing can be heard in various streets. And so, playing with water and talcum powder becomes part of the party for many. If you are visiting, it is best to take it easy. For example, you can watch the parades first and take photos. Then, if you feel like it, you can join in the fun. However, some people do not want to get wet. Therefore, it is best to be respectful and ask with a smile.
• February 22, End of Carnival / Kacharpari
  A week later comes the farewell. It also feels like the last burst of joy. Then the groups and music return. Finally, many experience it as the official closing of the carnival.
• Yunzas or cortamontes (all month, depending on the neighborhood or town)
  There are also the yunzas. People dance around a tree with gifts. Then, taking turns, they cut it down. And when the tree falls, everyone shouts and celebrates. This can happen in neighborhoods of Cusco and in towns such as Pisac or Ollantaytambo, depending on the calendar of each place.

Traditional Cuisine in Carnivals

• Puchero / T’impu (the flagship dish of Carnival)
  At this time of year, people eat puchero. It is also called t’impu. It is a hot and hearty dish. That’s why it goes down well when the weather is cool. It usually contains meat and various vegetables. It can also contain potatoes and sweet potatoes. It is then accompanied by rice or corn, depending on the household. Many families prepare it to share, because carnival is also celebrated at the table. Iin conclusion, Peruvian food is delicious.
• Drinks and season
  In addition to food, there are traditional drinks. For example, chicha is drunk. Chicha morada is also drunk. And, meanwhile, seasonal fruits appear.

Practical Recommendations

• Wear comfortable clothes. You will most likely get wet. Also, bring a change of clothes if you plan to stay for several hours.
• Take care of your cell phone and your belongings. Use a waterproof bag and keep your important items in a safe place.
• Be careful in February. It’s the rainy season in Cusco. So a lightweight poncho will come in handy.
• Respect the game. Not everyone wants to participate. So take a look at the atmosphere first. Then decide if you want to join in.
• Book in advance. There are a lot of people visiting during this time. Also, some hotels fill up quickly, especially around February 15 and 22.