Peruvian traditions

Santísima Cruz de Chalpón

First Week of August, Motupe, Lambayeque
The history of the Cruz de Chalpón (Cross of Chalpón) dates back to the 1860s, from which time various miracles have been attributed to the wooden cross. The area has since become an important pilgrimage center, with the main pilgrimage taking place during the first week of August. On August 2, the faithful carry the cross down from Cerro Chalpón, eventually arriving in Motupe (about 55 miles north of Chiclayo) on August 4. On the central day (August 5), thousands of devotees gather to pay homage to the cross, after which it is carried through the principal streets until the early hours of the following day. Concerts, gastronomic fairs and a Peruvian Paso horse contest take place during the multiday festival.

Nuestra Señora de las Nieves

August 5, Central and Southern Highlands
August 5 is celebrated as Nuestra Señora de las Nieves (Our Lady of the Snows) throughout various parts of Italy, Spain, Portugal and Latin America. In Peru, the religious festival often features cultural exhibitions, gastronomic fairs, folk dances, processions and, in some regions, bullfights. The celebrations are particularly notable in Cusco, Ayacucho and Junín (where the day is known as Virgen de las Nieves, or Virgin of the Snows).