As of early February 2026, the city of Puno is once again at the heart of one of Peru’s most important cultural and religious celebrations: the Festivity of the Virgin of the Candelaria, a vibrant event where faith, music, and dance come together in an unforgettable display of living tradition.
One of the highlights of the celebration is the Dance Competition in “Trajes de Luces”, currently taking place at the Universidad Nacional del Altiplano Stadium. This year’s edition brings together 97 dance groups, with choreographed performances involving up to 1,500 dancers per group and musical ensembles featuring as many as 500 musicians. The competition begins early in the morning and runs throughout the day, transforming Puno into a powerful stage of movement, rhythm, and devotion.
Beyond its cultural significance, the Festivity of the Virgin of the Candelaria also has a strong economic impact. According to local reports, the celebration mobilizes more than 3,000 formal micro and small businesses (MYPES) across the region, benefiting sectors such as tourism, gastronomy, transportation, crafts, and accommodation.
The 2026 festivities have also included official ceremonies recognizing the importance of this celebration as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Nation. Authorities from the Ministry of Culture have participated in key events, reaffirming the commitment to preserving and promoting one of Peru’s most emblematic expressions of faith and identity.
With massive dance performances, powerful brass bands, and deep-rooted religious devotion, Puno continues to shine in February as a cultural destination, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness how tradition remains alive — danced, celebrated, and proudly shared with the world.
Source:https://rpp.pe/peru/puno/puno-festividad-de-la-virgen-de-la-candelaria-mueve-a-mas-de-3-000-mypes-formales-de-la-region-noticia-1674997?ref=rpp, Ministerio de Cultura del Peru (Facebook)