Hello, Dear reader! Are you curious about how Christmas is celebrated in Peru? Here, the festive season takes on a unique charm, blending religious devotion, local customs, and joyful family traditions. From midnight feasts to colorful Andean influences, Christmas in Peru offers a magical experience unlike anywhere else. 

Let’s explore what makes this holiday so special and why it’s the perfect time to visit Peru! Keep Reading! 

How is Christmas celebrated in Peru?

Christmas in Peru is a heartwarming blend of religious devotion, vibrant traditions, and family gatherings. Unlike the snowy landscapes often associated with the holiday season, Peru offers a summer Christmas filled with sunshine, music, and festive spirit.

At the heart of the celebrations is "Nochebuena", or Christmas Eve, which is the highlight of the season. Families come together for a midnight feast, exchange gifts, and often place an elaborate Nativity scene, or “Nacimiento”, as the centerpiece of their homes. The evening begins with the Misa de Gallo, or Rooster's Mass, held at midnight to commemorate the birth of Jesus.

When is Christmas celebrated in Peru?

While Christmas Day is recognized, in Peru the main celebrations take place on Christmas Eve. This focus on December 24th, with midnight feasts and religious gatherings, sets Peruvian Christmas apart from other traditions worldwide. 

      Christmas Day: A time to relax

After the lively celebrations of Christmas Eve, December 25th becomes a quieter, more relaxed day. Families enjoy leftover feasts, share stories, or head to the beach in coastal areas. This is a day to cherish quality time with loved ones and reflect on the joy of the season.

How to Say Merry Christmas in Peru?

If you’re traveling to Peru during the holidays, don’t forget the fact that we basically celebrate the 24th and consider this interesting and important fact: 

Remember!

At midnight, noon, 12:00pm, 00:00, etc. you must greet your family, friends, the people you are traveling with or the locals you know, with a cheerful “¡Feliz Navidad!”. You can also give them a hug (yes, we are very friendly).

It’s the perfect way to connect and share in the festive spirit.

You can continue saying Feliz Navidad during the 25th, but if you have a peruvian relative or important person (e.g: a girlfriend), they will expect you to call them at that specific time and greet them for Christmas. 

Traditions and customs you’ll love

One of the most delightful aspects are the unique traditions of Christmas in Peru that vary by region. Some highlights include:

• Festive meals:

Families prepare dishes like roast turkey (also chicken and even pork), tamales, Peruvian hot chocolate, and the famous panetón (a fruit-filled bread).

• About the panetón: 
  • One curious fact about it is that some people eat it with butter, like it was a bread.
  • Now, If you are vegan or you are celiac, unable to eat gluten, you will be able to find it gluten-free or with other kinds of flour.
  • If you just don’t like the normal versión and you love brownie, there is a new trendy panetón made of brownie called “brownietón” and you can find it in many flavours as Nutella, Manjar, Pistacho, Lúcuma, Oreo, etc. depending on where you buy it.

Source: @labrownieseria

• Cultural dances:

In Huánuco, for example, the streets come alive with the Danza de los Negritos, a traditional dance performed with vibrant costumes and music.

• Nativity scenes: 

Peruvian homes often display elaborate Nacimiento setups that include local figures and  Andean elements.

Other Unique Customs in Peru During Christmas

• Handmade Gifts and Decorations: Many families exchange artisanal gifts or decorate their homes with handmade crafts, supporting local artists.

• The Andean Influence: In the Andes, Christmas incorporates indigenous elements, such as Quechua songs and dances, blending beautifully with Catholic traditions.

• Festivals in Small Towns: Villages often host colorful Christmas markets, where you can find intricate Nativity figurines made of clay or alpaca wool. One example of festival is the Santurantikuy.

Explore the Andean highlands or visit charming Christmas markets with Peruvian Sunrise and uncover the magic of Peru during the holidays.

 

Why visit Peru during Christmas?
 

Peru transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. Streets light up with decorations, and Christmas markets in cities like Lima offer unique gifts and treats. Whether you want to explore Machu Picchu during the holidays or witness the cultural celebrations in the Andes, Christmas in Peru is a magical experience for travelers.
 

Christmas in Peru is a unique celebration of tradition, joy, and togetherness. Whether you're savoring festive delicacies, joining a midnight mass, or admiring the blend of Catholic and Andean customs, the experience is unforgettable.

Ready to explore the magic of Christmas in Peru? Let Peruvian Sunrise guide you through this enchanting season. Contact us today to plan your perfect holiday adventure!