Chile, Bolivia, Argentina... These faraway countries are as fascinating for their beauty as they are for their culture. Throughout the year, popular festivals and cultural events attract many visitors to Latin America. Carnivals come to mind, from Rio to Oruro! Unmissable, they reflect a festive and colorful society. But if you look hard enough, you could almost find a festival every day, from Mexico to Chile... To make things easier for you, Petit Futé has selected the 10 best events in Latin America.
N° 10 - Festivities of San Benito, Venezuela
A Catholic saint from Palermo, Sicily, San Benito is said to be a descendant of slaves of African origin. Recognized by the Church as the author of numerous miracles, he is the object of a veritable cult in the western states of Venezuela , where numerous festivities are dedicated to him between December and January. The traditional dance known as giros de San Benito is one of the most colorful traditions in the entire country, with dancers taking their places around a stake around which ribbons are tied and gracefully flown about. A must-see!
No. 9 - Cosquín Folklore Festival, Argentina
More than 300,000 people are expected to attend Latin America's biggest folk music festival every year. Cosquín, a small village in the province of Córdoba, is the setting for this major gathering, which lasts nine nights at the end of January. It's a chance for Argentines and visitors alike to (re)connect with their vibrant traditional culture. Please note that the festival is emblematic of the campo, or "Argentine province". So you won't be seeing any tango, a dance that's typically Puerto Rican! The festival takes place from January 20 to 28, 2024.
N° 8 - Chagras parade, Ecuador
Chagras are the cowboys of the Andes. In the Cotopaxi volcano region of Ecuador, their parade is a veritable tradition: the horses are dressed in colorful fabrics and the riders display their finest period costumes. Initially, this gathering consisted of leading the cattle convoy into the pastures. Today, the tradition is strongest in the town of Machachi, known as the capital of the chagras. In a breathtaking setting, riders parade their incredible mounts to the delight of visitors.
No. 7 - Feast of the Dead, Mexico
The Feast of the Dead is a very important event in Mexico. On November1st and 2nd, families gather to exchange special gifts, such as sugar-coated skulls and tequila. Everyone then goes to the cemetery, where they eat, dance and sing on the graves before offering their gifts. This practice, which dates back to Aztec times, is widespread in Mexico, where the dead are brought flowers and candles before being kept company. In houses, altars are set up with skulls representing the deceased. A truly intriguing festival!
No. 6 - The traditional festival of San Antonio de Areco, Argentina
Since 1939, every year on November 10, San Antonio de Areco has been transformed into a veritable gaucho sanctuary. Gauchos are the Argentine cowboys who form part of the traditional culture of the Pampas. On the program: equestrian parades, shows, rope braiding, craft markets... It's a chance to discover a piece of Argentine history in a festive atmosphere that attracts over 30,000 visitors every year!
N° 5 - Carnival in Barranquilla, Colombia
No, it's not just Rio that can boast carnival! The Colombian city of Barranquilla is also home to colorful festivities, classified as a masterpiece of humanity's oral and intangible heritage. Multi-ethnic and warm-hearted, this carnival, in the image of the Barranquilleros, is one of the finest in the world. For four days, the city lives to the rhythm of the rumba before the death of Joselito, the carnival man and symbol of joy and celebration! In 2024, the Barranquilla Carnival will take place from February 10 to 13.
No. 4 - Tapati Rapa Nui celebrations, Chile
Every year, Easter Island revives its traditions during the Tapati Rapa Nui celebrations in February. Although annexed to Chile, Easter Island has a very specific culture, the result of its great geographical remoteness. On this land at the end of the world, two clans clash during the festivities. The events are based on the island's traditions, from body painting to ritual chants and the creation of handicrafts. An opportunity to discover the mysteries of Rapa Nui... In 2024, the Tapati Rapa Nui celebrations will be held from February1 to 16.
N° 3 - Inti Raymi, the festival of the sun in Cusco, Peru
This religious ceremony takes place every June 24 in Cusco, celebrating the winter solstice. In the past, it took place after several days of fasting, and sacrifices were made to the sun god. Long banned as pagan by Catholics, Inti Raymi was revived in 1944. Today, participants sacrifice an alpaca before launching into impressive traditional dances and songs!
No. 2 - Carnival in Oruro, Bolivia
Bolivia's biggest event! TheOruro carnival combines spirituality and folklore. Musicians, singers and dancers come from all over the country to pay homage to Pachamama, the earth goddess! The diablada dance is fascinating, representing the confrontation between the forces of hell and angels. Both sides are represented by dancers executing complex figures in costumes each heavier than the next. Unforgettable! The next Oruro Carnival will take place from February 9 to 12, 2024.
No. 1 - The mythical Carnival of Rio, Brazil
How can you dissociate Rio from its dazzling carnival ? More than just a festival, it's a veritable institution. The whole city is abuzz with activity for a week, as samba schools compete for the title of "Queen of Carnival". The baianas' rhinestone and sequined costumes are an eye-catcher for cariocas and visitors alike, ready to dance the night away! The next Rio Carnival will be held in mid-February 2024!
