5 Ways to Celebrate Fiestas Patrias in Lima Peru
James Bustamante is Native to New York but born to Peruvian parents. He has been traveling throughout Latin America since early 2003 and finally made his home in Peru. James has made his way by eating and traveling through almost every country in Central and South America.
Last Updated on June 29, 2021 by James Bustamante
Visitors from around the globe commonly flood the city of Lima every year for one of Peru’s most important celebrations. On July 28th Peru celebrates the anniversary of Jose de San Martín’s proclamation of independence in Lima’s Plaza de Armas. The following day on the 29th of July, Peru honors its Armed Forces and National Police. If the 28th of July coincides with an election year (every 5 years) then a new president is proclaimed. So what activities are available at this time? What can you do during Fiestas Patrias in Lima, Peru?
An Important Peruvian Holiday
Fiestas Patrias in Lima is considered a very important time of the year. In fact, It’s one of the year’s most important holidays, with many Peruvians taking advantage of the long weekend to travel. Travel is usually done to the provinces but even Lima has a few places to visit nearby.
3 Places to Visit in Lima During Fiestas Patrias
- Canta is a small town in the Lima Region, it is located roughly around 2.5 hours from the Lima city center. This would be considered as the Lima highlands, people like to come here to do some casual hiking without having to travel all the way to Cusco.
- Cieneguilla is located around 1.5 hours from the Lima city center. This town is in fact a valley with streams and rivers. People come here during the 28 de Julio celebrations in order to get some sunshine (which is absent during the Lima winter), go fishing and do some hiking.
- Ica is located around 3.5 hours from Lima (barely out of Lima so it makes this list) traveling south on the Panamericana Sur highway. People like coming to Ica to go sandboarding, go wine and pisco tasting, enjoy the good weather and ride dune buggies.
The independence day celebrations take place not just in Lima but all over the country. No matter where you are, there will be parades, music, food, and plenty of dancing going on in many cities across the country.
Be Aware of Fiestas Patrias Schedules
If you’re traveling during the days surrounding Fiestas Patrias, be aware that some shops and banks will only open for half a day or they might not open at all. Make sure to take this into consideration if you need to go to speak to anyone at a bank.
What about transportation During Fiestas Lima?
For the most part, private Bus companies and flights continue as they normally would. There will be a very noticeable increase in demand due to the long weekend though, this will also translate into higher prices. If you plan on traveling around fiestas Patrias in Lima and plan to buy a bus ticket then make sure to purchase it ahead of time. This way you ensure availability and a fair price.
Public transportation is almost non-existent in Lima during Fiestas Patrias in Lima. If you need to get around you will be able to hail down a taxi cab or find a “Micro” (bus) but they will also show an increase in pricing due to the holiday.
Peruvian Patriotism in Lima
When you are in Lima during “Fiestas Patrias” the first thing you’ll notice are the red and white flags fluttering festively along the Lima streets, and a festive atmosphere all around. There will be Peruvian flags on rooftops, in restaurants, shops, supermarkets, workers wearing the Peruvian football team’s jersey, and “Musica Criolla” blasting from most houses.
Don’t be shy. Peruvians love it when foreigners get into the celebrations. They see it as cultural appreciation when travelers are getting into the spirit by waving Peruvian flags, eating the delicious Peruvian food (and talking about food), and raising a glass of the national cocktail Pisco Sour!
Below we have a list of 5 ways you too can celebrate Fiestas Patrias in Lima.
Attend the Serenade in Parque de la Muralla
On the eve of Independence Day, Lima sponsors a serenade known as Lima Salutes the Nation. Expect to see Afro-Peruvian Creole Music, Folkloric Bands, Marinera Dancers, and modern rock groups as well. It ends with a short fireworks display.
(Free- July 27th)
Watch the Magical Water Circuit at Reserve Park’s “3D Spectacular”
In honor of Fiestas Patrias, the fountain park known as the Magical Water Circuit puts on a show of lights, music, and 3D footage of Lima’s Municipal Ballet, folkloric dances from around Peru, and other cultural standards. The park hands out the glasses and projects the show on the large Fantasia Fountain. You can also explore the rest of the park’s fountains and enjoy musical bands and traditional food.
(4 Soles- July 27th)
Visit Kennedy Park to View the Exhibitions
Visit the always-lively Kennedy Park, which will fill up with vendors and special exhibits celebrating Peruvian heritage. You will find outside art galleries, local street food, and the typical Lima flare this district is known for.
(Free- All Week)
Watch the Military and Police Parade
The Military Parade consists of the country’s army, navy, and air force. This will give you a glimpse at the equipment they use as well as the discipline they need to form part of the armed forces. The military parade has many parts to it, my favorite is the K9 units walking by with their specially trained dogs.
Watch Marinera Dances and Peruvian Paso Horses at Hacienda Mamacona
Lima’s Hacienda Mamacona is located in the town of Lurin about 30 minutes outside of Lima. There are many buses that go in that direction so getting transportation should not be an issue.
The Fundo Mamacona offers a Peruvian Paso horse show along with folk dances and plenty of Peruvian dishes to be tasted. It’s a scenic locale that focuses on Peruvian traditions. Just look up videos and illustrated brochures of the event, and call if you’d like to reserve a spot for the festivities.
Fundo Mamacona: http://www.fundomamacona.com/en/
In Conclusion
If you plan on spending Fiestas Patrias in Lima there are many activities and nearby destinations for you to explore. From hiking in the Lima highlands to riding dune buggies down south or simply getting a Pisco sour in a Peruvian restaurant, Lima has plenty to do.
If you want to know anything else about Peru, Cusco, and Machu Picchu Travel, check out the rest of our blog posts at Peru Travel Blog, and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for our special packages.
