This date is celebrated with parades and other cultural events across the country. Another tradition of this day is the Inti Raymi, takes place on June 21 when the proximity of the sun to the earth marks a new annual cycle. So, if you are planning a visit to Ecuador anytime soon, heres our list of the best Ecuador Festivals and traditional customs. Sindhu Darshan Festival. It celebrates the June solstice, which for the Incas marked the beginning of winter (in the southern hemisphere) and The geography of the landscape is perfect to practicing adventure sports like hiking, biking or climbing, but the most popular activity is the horseback ride Chagra Style (The cowboys of the Ecuador). Aya Uma is a relevant character throughout the festivities. Yamor is a traditional drink consisting of seven different types of corn. The town and the region belong to the protected Mindo-Nambillo forest, a unique ecosystem known as cloud forest, located between the highlands and the coastal region and surrounded by mist that you may be carrying. Independence of Cuenca - November 3rd: Shortly after the declaration of independence if Guayaquil in October of 1820, the city of Cuenca, the third biggest and most important of Ecuador, also During this day, men dress up as viudas the widowers of the ending year and Ecuador has a long tradition of colourful festivals and fiestas that include the following: Inti Raymi Inti Raymi Festival celebrated in Ecuador and Peru. And celebrate they do. Although Semana Santa is celebrated across the country, religious parades in the capital city Quito, especially on Good Friday, are quite something in themselves. Either falling in late May or early June, it's time for Corpus Christi. Semana Santa, Inti Raymi, Carnival, you name it! Photo credit: Chimu Advventures 6 Reasons Why You Should Take your Beginner Diving course in Galapagos? August 10. By . The indigenous groups of Kichwa Cayambi and Kichwa Otavalo honour the Andean agricultural cycle , with a special attention to corn, which is considered to be a symbol of fertility. The most well-known festival takes place a few days prior and is called Carnival of Guaranda. On its west is the Pacific Ocean, and it was once home to the pre-Columbian Inca Empire. One of the most famous carnivals is celebrated in the city of Guaranda, located in the center of the inter-Andean region of Ecuador. election of the citys beauty queen. The most typical signs of Carnival in Quito include 1) children of all ages wielding cans of foam and not afraid to spray any unsuspecting passerby, 2) lively water fights, and 3) surprising flour bombs. During this date, thousands of national and foreign tourists walk the streets of the historic center of Cusco and congregate on the esplanades of its main sites to experience a special day of cultural activities whose purpose is to revalue . Harrogate International Festivals. The Inti Raymi means "Sun Festival" in Quechua, this is one of the most important celebrations of the imperial Cusco and one of the most thrilling festivals in the entire country. Inti Raymi (Sun Festival) in June and July. Every second Saturday of November the city of Each year the dolls are better built and with more effort, so dont Required fields are marked *. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. However, some countries do have specific names for Santa Claus. The Yamor Festival (Corn Festival) in September. A deeply theatrical tradition, Holly Week in Ecuador gathers iconic characters in a procession recreating Christs journey to the cross. The energy and spirits of these performers are every bit infectious! La Mama Negra is one of the oldest in the city and it is a display of the varied cultural influences from its Spanish, Aymaran, Incan, Mayan, and African ancestors. This is best seen during the Desfile de Alegra (Parade of Joy), an event of national importance that attracts many special guests who celebrate the origins of San Pedro de Cayambe. This time coincides with the same harvest season and the end of an Andean agricultural cycle. Spanish Foundation of Quito - December 6: On the 5 and 6 of December, the city of Quito celebrates its foundation. 2. . It takes place every on June 21 when the sun passes through the Tropic of Cancer. While these are not large gatherings, the small processions and festivals that crop up in the smallest towns provide a unique view into local customs. The purpose of the festivities is to thank mother earth for the corn harvest. Celebrated to honour Incan sun god Inti, Inti Raymi is an excellent festival for visitors who want to learn more about the ancient Inca Empire. They symbolize the experiences and events of the past year. Dont forget to take caution though. This customary soup is a rich concoction of twelve different grains (representing the twelve disciples) and salted fish. However, experiencing the true local vibe at these festivals is quite something in itself. Celebrations like Corpus Christ i, Saint Juan, Saint Pedro and Saint Paul, with religious and pagan characteristics, which occur in the month of June in almost all the indigenous populations of the mountains. Ecuador celebrates Christmas as one of its main traditional festivals. However, remember that you may encounter some alcohol-fuelled excess if venturing out late at night. Ambubachi Mela. It usually takes place six weeks prior to Easter Sunday and falls around any time between February to March. This "Day of the East" celebration includes fairs in Puyo, Macas, Zamora, and Residents prayed to the Virgin of Mercy to save Latacunga, which is directly in Cotopaxis fiery path. These people offer their national music to entertain and contribute to the celebration. Head on to Quitos historic city centre, which is the hub of all the activities during the festival. One of the most beautiful cities in all South America, blessed with invigorating spring-like weather, and which was pronounced a Humanitys Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. They dress in purple robes and don the veils in reverence for the woman who used her veil to wipe Jesus face. The Inti Raymi celebrations take place during the months of June and July, however the major party id held on June 2st . Glastonbury Music Festival, June 26 - 30. This precious jewel of nature is a must see while on Ecuador, as it has something to offer for everyone: relax with wonderful landscapes, explore the forest from above the canopy or hike to a hidden waterfall. Carnival is characterized by spraying foam at anyone and everyone. Semana Santa, Inti Raymi, Carnival, you name it! Every city of Ecuador celebrates their own festivals either in honor of a saint (Most Ecuadorians are Catholics), or the city's festivities. In Zuleta, they celebrate the festivities of San Juan. If you are in Ecuador at the beginning of September, we recommend that you check it out for an unforgettable experience. The carnival that commences the celebrations is the Carnival of the Father, locally known as Taita Carnival. The people of Pillaro and the A city of culture and striking contrasts where the old meets the new 17th century churches, museums, and neoclassical architecture connect with avenues brimming with modern shops, markets and charming restaurants and cafes. Battle of Pichincha - May 24: This national holiday commemorates the victory of the liberation forces during a determinant battle of 1822, and that signified the independence from the Spanish On the 31st of December, the best dolls are exhibited on a street in each city, and the winner is decided. Some families make their own, and they can be purchased as well. The celebration consists of parades and dances in costumes, in gratitude for the fertility of the soil and the good harvest. A largely popular religious festival, Corpus Christi is a time when Catholics celebrate and honour the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Enjoy the most important religious holiday in Ecuador with Gulliver Expeditions. Carnival in Ecuador, known as Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday in the United States, is celebrated as a Christian tradition to indulge in life, before the liturgical season of Lent in remembrance of Jesus' suffering on the cross. Rather, the festival is celebrated in towns and cities throughout Peru, each putting their own unique spin on things. Some are happy and others are sad but the music always includes dance and rhythm. trees, and in Quito, the city builds the nativity scene in the Panecillo, using the statute of the winged virgin. A handwritten note, explaining the reason behind the dislike, is pinned to the effigies as you set fire to them. In Quito in particular, the procession is accompanied by the Guaguas de pan, which are dolls made of bread that are eaten together with Colada Morada, a warm and sweet brew made with different berries and only prepared in this holiday. The city shuts down for two days to celebrate Simn Bolvar's birthday and the foundation of Ecuador's most populous coastal city. Domingo de Pascua o Resureccion. The date of this celebration varies each year, as it depends on the ecclesiastical lunar calendar, and can take place between the 22nd of March and the 25th of April. Christmas is famous for gifts, merry and of course, our old man - the Santa Claus and it is the same, worldwide. is El Danzante (the dancer), also known as the rain priest, and it symbolizes the goodness and generosity of the indigenous communities. Celebratory foods and drinking are always part of Ecuadorian holidays. Nowadays, on Good Friday is possible to see hundreds of cucuruchos walking the streets of the historical center. Celebrated in the central sierra, particularly Salasaca and Pujil with danzates (masked dancers), wonderful costumes and, in the latter town, 5-10m poles people climb to get prizes at the top. Holy week begins with Palm Sunday Domingo de Ramos, and ends on Easter Sunday, Carnival occurs right before Lent, so its peoples last opportunity to have some crazy fun before the somber religious season. Submerging into a rich cultural tradition is probably one of the best ways to get to know the country and its people. There are plenty more celebrations throughout the country such as: "Virgen del Carmen", on the 16th of July. Ramadan And Eid Ul-Fitr. A colorful and joyful event, symbolizing new beginnings. December 24: Christmas. Ever since, locals dress up in flamboyant attire and take to the streets to put up zestful performances, acts, and parades. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ). Cities are decorated with the traditional lights and Christmas Though it take place throughout the country, Guaranda and Ambato are the major carries of the tradition. The indigenous groups of Kichwa Cayambi and Kichwa Otavalo honour the Andean agricultural cycle , with a special attention to corn, which is considered to be a symbol of fertility. ), Top 9 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dol-de-Bretagne, France - Updated 2023, Top 10 Hotels With Gyms In Manchester, England - Updated 2023, 10 Best Halal Restaurants In Brooklyn, New York City, Top 9 Stayz Accommodations In Maleny, Australia. Taking place around June 21st, this festival represents a deeply historical celebration of ancestry. It's a public event and celebrated in the whole country very warmly, learn more Good Friday in Ecuador. In the cities of Quito and Guayaquil, there contests for the best-made dolls. Parades, carnival revelries, food fairs, musical performances, and a whole lot of energy takes over the country as people gather to celebrate Ecuadorian Mardi Gras. There are some more bucket-list locations of Ecuador near Otavalo. take place in the Caar Province, in the Ingapirca community, just beside of Ecuadors most important archeological site. Like many festival traditions in Latin America, festivals in Ecuador are a fusion of Catholic influence and indigenous culture. They present a brilliant insight into the countrys history, culture, and warmth that youll surely enjoy. 6. Please change the filter above to see different holiday types. 37 kilometers. An annual festival in the highland town of Otavalo. looks of passersby. The cultural programs change every year and are coordinated by the municipality and local artists. During this week, it is also usual to see the Chivas, open busses that drive around the town with music and people on board dancing and drinking. - Guaranda Throughout the Andes region, Inti Raymi takes place annually between June 21 and June 24. It is a period of celebration and abundance before the fasting. There is an opening celebration which is then followed by a party that lasts for eight days. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email. (+1) 315 636 0940. Posadas is a nine-day celebration leading up to Christmas in which families reenact the journey of Mary and Joseph looking for a place to stay. Celebrated during the second week of June, Corpus Christi, which means "the body of . If you haven't tried Ecuador's famous sugarcane liquor, called trago or aguardiente, you'll find plenty of it at a festival. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact. Holy Week is coming up soon. No matter the color of ones skin or relationship to the community, everyone is welcome to share in this moment. For the festivities, crops like corn, beans, and potatoes are shared and a traditional corn-based beverage called chicha is distributed. In Ecuador, Christmas is celebrated on December 25th and is a time for families to come together and celebrate. You can spend the night in some of the best places to stay in Ecuador, including hotels and vacation rentals. devils to bulls also known as Toros de pueblo along with a unique atmosphere and captivating decor which provides a systematic illustration of traditions, rituals, and customs by those celebrating these It is typically non-alcoholic, although those that are fermented longer contain alcohol. Most Andean communities celebrate Carnival in a small way, with neighborhood parties and lots of troublemaking. The festivities include processions, music, dancing in the streets, fireworks, cock fighting, mock bull fighting and lots of fun. In the town of Pillaro, in the Tungurahua province, the indigenous community celebrates the Corpus Christi with an amalgam the Yasuni National Park bestow upon the Amazon its special human character and identity. All Souls Day - November 2: Dia de los Difuntos. There are several rituals with which the Inti Raymi is celebrated. People from all the region come to show their fate and devotion with a pilgrimage that departs from Quito to arrive at El Quinche, in a walk of approximately Cucuruchos, who are persons that dress in a purple, long Holy Innocents It is a religious celebration with a strictly religious beginning. The indigenous communities live with joy and in a committed way all their ancestry, they prepare in time, they choose a year in advance the hosts who will organize the party next year, always with the support of the community. dress, with a pointy hat of the same color that covers all of Jacqueline is an Ecuadorian who loves each and every corner of her country. The last float to appear carries the Jess del Gran Poder statue, a 17th-century work of art depicting Jesus journey to the cross. Throughout the Ecuadorian Sierra, it is one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year. Inti Raymi consists of a lot of dancing. September. If you want to participate in the countrys most significant indigenous festival, we recommend joining the festivities with a guide. On June 24, they dance and celebrate until Friday of the same week, a peak moment in which around 600 visitors gather (each year more arrive). This will allow to welcome their own and visitors who will come from many parts of the country and the rest of the world, it will be the opportunity to meet, thank for the food that Pacha Mama or Mother Nature offers them, as well as generously share the energy and vitality of its traditions. First cry for independence - August 10: On the 10th of August of 1809, in the city of Quito, the local leaders decided to declare the independence from the Spanish Crown. Carnival in Ecuador This festival is celebrated mainly in Catholic countries. The Day of the East - February 12th: This day marks an anniversary of the countrys discovery of the Amazon River. Simn Bolvar Day or "Natalicio de Simn Bolvar" in Spanish is a national holiday in Ecuador celebrated on July 24th. One of the most popular Christmas traditions in Ecuador is Los Posadas. Despite a religious history, Festa Junina is celebrated mainly through . A series of week-long celebrations in Ecuador known as Fiestas de Quito kicks off in the capital city Quito during the last week of November until December 6. EVENTS IN JUNE June 14-23-Corpus Christi Festival-Cuenca: The Corpus Christi Festival is an annual celebration that draws thousands to the street of central Ecuador's cultural hub and the surrounding highland towns and villages. Ecuadorians typically celebrate with parades, public dances, and loud music. La Pambamesa is a generous and important act in the Andean worldview. Thousands of locals and tourists gather as onlookers of a tradition that processes through the streets of Latacunga. hunters, which are other riders from the community. Feast of the earthquake lord - February 4th: In Patate, Tungurahua, Seor del Terremoto takes place and is known as a feast of the earthquake lord. June 23, 2020 - 4:12 pm; Ultimate Guide to CoLiving May 18, 2020 - 10:52 pm; Duration: 15 days. Inti Raymi is one of the most traditional festival celebrations in the Ecuadorian Andes. . This is the winter solstice when the masculinity of the universe is celebrated. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Gulliver. 5) SAN PEDRO & SAN PABLO- JUNE 29 TH. The festival was established when the Cotopaxi volcano erupted in 1742. Inti Raymi - June 17-21: The Inti Raymi or the celebration This weeklong festival takes place the first week of September in the Otavalo region. It is perhaps the biggest and most important indigenous celebration in Ecuador. Both of these include folk dancers, performers, and singers, making the atmosphere more like a large religious party than a serious affair. At this party, you will find the traditional chicha drink which is made from corn, Blue Bird liquor, and beverages of Pajaro Azul. The biggest celebrations of Inty Raimy Originally a religious ceremony of the Inca Empire, celebrated in honor of the god Inti (the Quechuan word for sun), it is held on June 22 in Ecuador and June 24 in Per, during the summer solstice in South American countries north of the equator, and during the winter solstice in those countries south . Ecuador celebrates the 02nd of November as El Dia de los Difuntos or All souls day. This national holiday is very important for the Ecuadorian Thus, the exact date will depend on Easter's date. November 7, 2021 . Foreign travelers and locals alike express their excitement about the Yamor Festival. When the city was ultimately spared, locals created the annual festivity in honor of the Virgin of Mercy. Carnival in Ecuador. August, the month of the arts: In Ecuador, the month of August is considered the month of Culture and arts. Celebrated on June 21, this day the sun is closer to the earth, making the day shorter and the night longer. All of this usually takes place around 12am on December 31, followed by dancing and merry-making of ringing in a brand new year. Nevertheless with the pass of time several elements have been introduced and added. Clad in wool chaps, communities, especially those around Otavalo, spend most of the festival dancing, drinking, and eating. Ecuador Festivals are probably of the most colorful and culture filled traditions of South America when it comes to holidays and festivities. . The date when Carnival takes place varies from year to year. Ecuadorian town Latacunga comes alive with Mama Negra Festivities that take place twice in a year once towards around September 23 to 24, and once around Latacungas Independence Day on November 11. These cultural representations were followed by music and dances, which generally lasted several days. crowd in Esmeraldas. Ecuadorians celebrate this day with military parades, as well as parades . These dolls are made out of cardboard and newspaper and often represent politicians and popular personalities, such as superheroes and cartoon characters. This celebration attracts around 5000 visitors every year. In each celebration, it is easy to notice different types of characters. The reason why is that it is a deeply catholic tradition. Although this independence This battle took place on the foothills of the Pichincha Volcano, where the city of Quito is located. In Quito, a contest of highly detailed super-sized dolls is held on one of the capitals main streets, and they usually reflect the news and politics within the last year. Another Inti Raymi-style celebration occurs in Tabacundo on the night of June 28, the Feast Day of San Pedro (St. Peter). It is also conventional for these festivals to include the drinking of brandy and liquor. Unsubscribe in one click. Families and delegations join in. Throughout the Highlands and the Amazon regions, for example, different indigenous groups give particular tweaks to the way they commemorate their dead. A colorful and joyful event, symbolizing new beginnings. Families make or buy life-size rag or paper dolls, which are burnt on the streets at midnight. In many cities throughout Ecuador, youll find parades and festivals. with the townspeople and with other characters of the parade. The word Yamor refers to a traditional beverage, which is brewed using seven varieties of corn and is unique to this area. La procesion de Jesus del Gran Poder or procession of Jesus of Eating from the ground is a means to receive energy from mother earth. Extravagant fireworks displays at night add a notch of awesome to this brilliant Ecuadorian holiday tradition. traditional ceremonies. Thousands of people walk in this passionate demonstration of repentance. Ecuador Festivals are probably of the most colorful and culture filled traditions of South America when it comes to holidays and festivities. Photo taken from : El Diario Where are the Best Places to Celebrate Inti Raymi in Ecuador? Historically considered the devils mask by the Spanish, the indigenous population considers Aya Uma to be a mythological spirit that ought to be highly respected. The Yamor festivities started 52 years ago. Fashion Supplies For Pets what festival in ecuador is celebrated in june? Stalls on the streets in all big cities in Ecuador sell yellow and red undergarments, should you be lacking. Sip carefully! This cheerful celebration has a long-standing tradition and is quite beloved in the Andean I love that you have started writing for us because it means that I will never stop learning about all that Ecuador has to offer! This being the harvest season. The three main characters are the devil, guaricha and capariche. Chiva party buses run through the entire city and each neighbourhood puts up its own open-air music and dance shows, turning Quito into a giant discotheque!