South America is a continent of rhythm, color, and traditions. From massive carnivals to ancient rituals, its festivals are the best way to connect with local culture, taste authentic food, and join unforgettable celebrations. Here are the top 10 festivals in South America, with their dates, highlights, and what you should not miss.
1. 🎭 Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When: February or March (before Lent)
Why Go: The world’s most famous carnival with samba parades, costumes, and nonstop parties.
What to Do:
- Watch the grand Sambadrome parade.
- Join street parties (blocos) and dance samba.
- Relax on Copacabana beach after the celebrations.
2. 💃 Carnival of Barranquilla, Colombia
When: February or March
Why Go: A UNESCO cultural treasure mixing African, Indigenous, and Spanish traditions.
What to Do:
- Attend the Battle of Flowers parade.
- Enjoy cumbia music and traditional dances.
- Taste local snacks like arepas and empanadas.
3. 🥁 Oruro Carnival, Bolivia
When: February (before Lent)
Why Go: A festival where Catholic rituals meet Andean traditions.
What to Do:
- Watch the Diablada (Dance of the Devils).
- Discover Andean folklore and music.
- Explore Oruro’s colorful markets.
4. 🌞 Inti Raymi, Peru
When: June 24 (Cusco)
Why Go: An Incan festival honoring the sun god, Inti.
What to Do:
- Witness ceremonies at Sacsayhuamán fortress.
- Explore Cusco’s colonial and Incan heritage.
- Combine it with a trip to Machu Picchu.
5. 🍇 Grape Harvest Festival, Argentina (Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia)
When: March (Mendoza)
Why Go: A wine lover’s dream with parades, concerts, and tastings.
What to Do:
- Visit Mendoza’s vineyards.
- Watch the Queen of the Harvest show.
- Try Argentine wines and regional food.
6. 🔥 Parintins Folklore Festival, Brazil
When: Late June (Amazonas region)
Why Go: A unique Amazonian festival celebrating folklore.
What to Do:
- Watch the legendary Caprichoso vs Garantido competition.
- Experience traditional Amazonian dances and myths.
- Taste Amazonian dishes like tacacá soup.
7. 🎨 Festival of La Tirana, Chile
When: July (La Tirana village, Atacama Desert)
Why Go: A colorful religious festival blending Catholicism and Indigenous traditions.
What to Do:
- Watch thousands of dancers in elaborate costumes.
- Listen to brass bands and folkloric music.
- Explore the Atacama Desert’s unique landscapes.
8. 💥 Fiesta de la Candelaria, Peru & Bolivia
When: February (Puno, Peru / Copacabana, Bolivia)
Why Go: One of the largest religious festivals in the Andes.
What to Do:
- Watch folkloric dances with vibrant costumes.
- Join processions honoring the Virgin of Candelaria.
- Experience the mix of Catholic and Andean spirituality.
9. 🎶 Rock in Rio, Brazil
When: Every two years (September)
Why Go: One of the world’s biggest music festivals, attracting global stars.
What to Do:
- Enjoy concerts from international and Brazilian artists.
- Discover Rio’s nightlife after the shows.
- Mix music with sightseeing at Christ the Redeemer.
10. 🐂 Fiesta de San Fermín (Running of the Bulls – Pamplona is famous, but…) → (Alternative) Festival de San Juan, Ecuador
When: June (Otavalo & Imbabura province)
Why Go: A mix of Indigenous rituals and Catholic celebrations.
What to Do:
- Join traditional dances and bonfires.
- Experience Indigenous music and parades.
- Visit Otavalo’s famous handicraft market.
✨ Final Tip: Festivals in South America are more than events — they are cultural journeys. Plan your trip according to these festival dates to experience the continent at its most vibrant.