Top 5: Bolivia Traditional Festivals

Bolivia is a country filled with endless traditional festivals that every visitor should experience it, if you’re planning a trip to South America Tours including Bolivia, we’ve gathered the top 5 of the best Bolivia celebrations.

In this article we mention our top 5 of the best festivals in Bolivia:

Alasitas Festival 

One week before Carnival, on the 24th of January, the Alasitas Fair, or Feria de Alasitas, takes place in La Paz, Bolivia. Bolivians from all over the country buy miniature items to offer to Ekeko, the Aymaran God of abundance, hoping he will bring good fortune and wealth into their lives.

In order to receive their wishes granted, Bolivians purchase a figure of Ekeko, to put into their homes all over the year. Afterwards they buy all the objects they wish for in miniature sizes, have these miniature items blessed by a shaman and pin them to the poncho of Ekeko figure, praying for it.

The Alasitas Fair is a wonderful opportunity for tourists to gain a preview into the local culture and enjoy the colorful festivities. However, keep in mind that la Paz can get very crowded during this time and its recommended to book accommodation in advance.

Semana Santa in Copacabana

Easter, or Semana Santa in Spanish, is celebrated throughout the whole continent in the catholic religion and of course in Bolivia with processions similar as the rest of the Andes region.

Travelers will find lively celebrations featuring food, music, dances, parades and religious ceremonies. The pinnacle of celebrations takes place on Holy Thursday when the churches along the city open their doors to a stream of devotees who come to light torches, pray and sing catholic songs. This also provides tourists with the opportunity to explore the city’s many churches without the usual entrance fees.

Fiesta Del Gran Poder 

Between the months of May and June, the city of La Paz comes to a pause to celebrate one of Bolivia’s most important and unique festivals with more than 25.000 local participants.

The religious festivities pay tribute to El Señor de Gran Poder or Jesus Christ. The parade features thousands of dancers straggling the streets of La Paz with colorful costumes while the masses of spectator’s cheer in joy.

Although the festivities have changed over the years, many of the originally traditions remain, making it a special event attended by locals and tourists similarly and one of the best Bolivia celebrations throughout the country.

Inti Raymi 

The solstice has been a national holiday since 2009 in Bolivia. It’s celebrated throughout all South American Andes countries such as Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.

Although travelers can witness this ancient festival all over Bolivia, the spiritual heart of Bolivia’s winter solstice is the pre-Inca site of Tiwanaku located on the high plains just outside of La Paz. Fearing the lack of sun and ensuing famine, the ancient Incas gathered in Cusco to honor the Sun God and plead for his return.

In this spectacular festival people of all ages dance all night to mark the winter. Shamans pour their offerings with alcohol and chant blessings to Mother Earth. This is an intimate event to experience and one of the must-see Bolivia festivals if you are visiting during this time.

Urkupiña Festival 

August marks one of Bolivians most important cultural events. The festivities are in honor of the Virgin of Urkupiña, the most renowned virgin figure in the region.

Locals arrive from every side of the country to participate in these festivities. The festivities are not just Catholic but a mixture of indigenous traditions. The celebrations are marked with folkloric dances that last from the early morning until long after the sunset. The abundance of different dances performed ranges from flamenco style to feet stomping. Each dance is accompanied by a band.

The traditions and rituals have incorporated Catholic elements without losing the essence of their unique culture. This Bolivian festival is truly an ancient culture of this country.

As you can see Bolivia truly has amazing festivals and traditions to offer you. Its culture is something you should experience at least once in their life. Make sure any of these festivals are included in your South America Trip.

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