Peru is a land full of contrasts, cultural diversity, and impressive ancestral heritage. Throughout its vast territory, deeply rooted customs are preserved that reflect the Andean worldview, colonial mestizaje (cultural mixing), and the particularities of each region. Many of these practices are unique in the world, due to their symbolism, intensity, and ritualistic character. We invite you to discover eight unconventional cultural expressions that remain alive in the heart of the Peruvian people.
Contents
- 1. The Scissors Dance (La Danza de las Tijeras): Skill and Mysticism in Motion
- 2. Inti Raymi: The Splendor of the Sun in Cusco
- 3. Yawar Fiesta: A Symbolic Duel Between Sky and Earth
- 4. Takanakuy: Popular Justice Through Combat
- 5. La Yunza: Tree of Abundance and Communal Union
- 6. El Pago a la Tierra: Spiritual Communion with the Pachamama
- 7. La Huaylia: Festive Song with Ancestral Echo
- 8. Religious Processions: Faith, Syncretism, and Collective Devotion
1. The Scissors Dance (La Danza de las Tijeras): Skill and Mysticism in Motion
This spectacular ceremonial dance, originating in the southern Peruvian Andes, combines physical agility with spirituality. The dancers, known as “danzantes” or “danzaq,” perform extreme acrobatics while holding two metal plates that they clash rhythmically. This choreography, which holds magical and religious meanings, is performed with violin and harp music in festive and ritual contexts. It is attributed millenary origins, possibly linked to pre-Inca agricultural ceremonies.
Where to enjoy it: Ayacucho, Apurímac, and Huancavelica, especially on December 27th in Huancavelica.
2. Inti Raymi: The Splendor of the Sun in Cusco
Every June 24th, Cusco revives its imperial heritage with the representation of Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun. This majestic event commemorates gratitude to the god Inti for his blessings. Actors dressed as Inca nobles recreate the ancient rite in three emblematic settings: the Coricancha, the Plaza de Armas, and Sacsayhuamán. More than a simple spectacle, it is a vibrant ceremony that connects the past with the present.
When to attend: Every Southern Hemisphere winter solstice, on June 24th.
3. Yawar Fiesta: A Symbolic Duel Between Sky and Earth
In the Apurímac Andes, a different bullfighting ceremony comes to life every July: the Yawar Fiesta. In this confrontation, a condor—a sacred bird for the Andean peoples—is tied to the back of a brave bull. This allegorical act represents the confrontation between colonial oppression (the bull) and indigenous resistance (the condor). Although controversial, this practice reveals a deeply rooted narrative of identity and cultural pride.
Where to witness it: Coyllurqui and Cotabambas, Apurímac, every July 28th (Peruvian Independence Day).
4. Takanakuy: Popular Justice Through Combat
In the district of Chumbivilcas, in Cusco, December 25th is not only celebrated as Christmas. Takanakuy is also held, a bare-knuckle fight between neighbors to settle accumulated disputes throughout the year. This event, which blends folklore and social catharsis, is accompanied by colorful dances and traditional characters who add a festive tone to the day of fights.
Where it is celebrated: Chumbivilcas (Cusco), although it has also spread to areas of Apurímac, Arequipa, and Puno.
5. La Yunza: Tree of Abundance and Communal Union
During carnivals, many Peruvian communities celebrate the yunza, a festival in which a tree adorned with gifts, ribbons, and balloons is planted. To the rhythm of music and dances, attendees take turns chopping it down with machetes until it falls. Whoever fells it becomes the next sponsor of the festival. This joyful tradition promotes camaraderie and teamwork.
When it occurs: During carnivals (February and March), in coastal, highland, and jungle regions.
6. El Pago a la Tierra: Spiritual Communion with the Pachamama
In Andean towns, the Pachamama—Mother Earth—is considered a generous but also demanding deity. To maintain balance with her, the “payment to the earth” (pago a la tierra) is performed, a ritual in which natural products such as coca leaves, corn, liquors, and llama fetuses are offered. This ceremony is guided by a shaman and reflects the sacred reciprocity that governs the Andean world.
Key date: August 1st, Day of the Pachamama, and throughout that month.
7. La Huaylia: Festive Song with Ancestral Echo
La Huaylia is a traditional dance and song that is performed every Christmas in communities in Apurímac, Ayacucho, and Huancavelica. Women sing high-pitched verses in Quechua while stomping their feet rhythmically, expressing both religious devotion and cultural resistance. The bright costumes and decorative staffs give it an air of colorful and spirited celebration.
When to hear it: Every December 25th in the mentioned Andean towns.
8. Religious Processions: Faith, Syncretism, and Collective Devotion
Processions in Peru are a fusion of Catholic beliefs and ancestral practices. From Corpus Christi in Cusco to the massive procession of the Lord of Miracles in Lima, these walks of faith combine solemnity with indigenous cultural expressions. Many of these ceremonies have roots in Inca rituals, where the deceased and natural divinities were also venerated.
Must-sees: Lord of Miracles (Lima, October), Corpus Christi (Cusco, typically in late May or early June, 60 days after Easter Sunday), Holy Week processions in Ayacucho.