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Peru is known for its archaeological sites like Machu Pichu, folkloric costumes like ponchos and sweaters knitted in geometric patterns featuring scenes from daily life and its carnivals, especially La Fiesta de la Virgen de Candelaria.
The festival is one of the most elaborate cultural celebrations in Peru, so much so that it has been compared to Carnival in Rio de Janeiro Brazil for its elaborate costumes, the hundreds of folk dancing troupes, musicians participating in competitions and endless parades and merriment.
Area residents will experience a taste of La Fiesta de Carnival on June 5 during Peruvian Night part of Hispanic Week in Lawrence. The Asociación Peruanos Unidos (APU) is sponsoring the festival from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Auditorium, 301 Haverhill St., Lawrence.
La Virgen de Candelaria is the patroness of Puno, Peru, located on the edge of Lake Titicaca and the town goes all out to honor her. The eight-day carnival begins on the eve of February 2nd with a procession to a hill where the homage to the Virgin of Candelaria begins. Participants go down to the city to the sanctuary of the virgin where she is blessed, followed by a procession of her image. The festival’s highlight comes on the eighth day when many folkloric groups dressed in bright colorful costumes and masks sets off through the City of Puno, dancing tirelessly until sunset. The carnival is an explosion of colors, sounds, and dances. It draws over thousands of dancers and musicians wearing different costumes, capes and decorated hats adorned with colorful feathers and sequences. It’s truly a magical and energetic celebration.
The Fiesta de Carnival is a FREE event. Click HERE for more information.
Come and see the stunning dances from Puno, Peru and listen to the lively electric carnival sounds of the Andes, while sampling our scrumptious dishes.
