How do they celebrate Christmas in Peru?
Posted on Dec 22, 2025 / History
In Peru, Christmas combines strong religious observance with local cultural traditions, with families gathering for a big Christmas Eve dinner and Midnight Mass. In many towns, traditional “pastoreadas navideñas” feature groups dressed as shepherds who sing and dance while visiting homes, especially in Amazonian regions like Ucayali. The Novena of Aguinaldos is also observed in many communities, as families pray, sing carols and share food together in the days leading up to Christmas. Typical festive foods include hot chocolate, panettone and roast meats, and cities often host markets selling Christmas crafts and decorations. Nativity scenes (pesebres) are central in homes, with some featuring local cultural elements. Fireworks commonly light up the sky after Midnight Mass, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Christmas in Peru reflects both indigenous cultural influence and Catholic tradition.
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