Bolivia is a country full of vibrant colors, rich traditions, and an unmatched sense of celebration. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, or the deep-rooted cultural traditions, Bolivia offers a variety of unique festivals and events that will leave an unforgettable impression. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best festivals and seasonal events that you shouldn’t miss while exploring this extraordinary country.
Carnaval de Oruro
If there’s one festival that you absolutely need to experience, it’s Carnaval de Oruro. Held in February or March (depending on the Easter calendar), this UNESCO-recognized celebration is one of Latin America’s biggest carnivals. It takes place in the city of Oruro, located in the heart of Bolivia.
The festival is a mix of Catholic and indigenous traditions, including dances that honor the Virgin of the Candelaria. Over 400,000 visitors come each year to witness the dancers, vibrant costumes, music, and art that fill the streets of Oruro. You’ll feel the energy immediately as over 20,000 dancers and 10,000 musicians parade through the city. The main dance is the “Diablada,” a traditional dance symbolic of the fight between good and evil.
What to expect:
Get ready for a non-stop party with music, dancing, and parades. The festival goes on for several days, peaking on the weekend before Ash Wednesday. It’s visually stunning, but it also gets crowded, so be prepared to join thousands of revelers. Also, book your accommodation in advance as hotels fill up quickly!
Aymara New Year (Willkakuti)
Celebrated on June 21st, Bolivia’s Aymara New Year, known as “Willkakuti,” is an incredible experience tied to the winter solstice. For the Aymara community, this day marks the start of the agricultural year. The celebration takes place across Bolivia, but the main event happens at the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku, around 70 km from La Paz.
At dawn, people gather to witness the first rays of sunlight that signify the rebirth of the annual cycle. It’s a profound cultural experience that connects visitors to Bolivia’s indigenous roots. Rituals, music, and traditional dances fill the atmosphere, and many participants wear traditional Aymara clothing.
What to expect:

You’ll need to wake up early, as many gather around 4 or 5 AM at Tiwanaku. Dress warmly as winters in the Andes can be chilly. Even though this event is spiritual, it’s open to everyone, making it a great chance to dive into ancient traditions still alive today. It’s a peaceful and reflective gathering, compared to some of Bolivia’s more electrifying festivals.
Feria de Alasita
Every January 24th, the streets of La Paz transform for the Feria de Alasita, a month-long market and festival that is rooted in a fascinating tradition. The main figure of the event is “Ekeko,” the god of abundance. During the festival, locals buy tiny items symbolizing what they hope to achieve or acquire in the coming year: houses, cars, food, money, and even university diplomas—all in miniatures!
The tiny statues and objects are blessed by local healers, known as “yatiris,” before being taken home for good luck. The feria is filled with crafts, food stalls, and cultural performances, making it a unique mix of tradition and modernity.
What to expect:
This festival is best experienced in La Paz, but you can also find it in other cities across Bolivia. Strolling through the market is a fun experience as you’ll come across all sorts of quirky miniature items. While you’re there, try some delicious street food too, like “api morado” (a thick purple corn drink) and “buñuelos” (fried dough treats).
Fiesta del Gran Poder
Another unmissable event is the Fiesta del Gran Poder, which takes place in La Paz around late May or early June. The festival honors “El Señor del Gran Poder” (The Lord of Great Power) and showcases Bolivia’s Afro-Bolivian and Andean traditions.
The festival is a feast for the senses with processions of elaborately dressed dancers, live music, and religious icons. Local fraternities compete to put on the most impressive performances, with dances like the “morenada” and “tinku” taking center stage.
What to expect:
The streets of La Paz will be jam-packed with participants and onlookers. The parade is incredibly long, lasting several hours. If you’re planning to attend, make sure you grab a spot on the viewing stands or along the parade route early! This is an energetic festival, so be ready to dance with the locals at any point during the event.

Virgen de Urcupiña in Quillacollo
Held every August in Quillacollo, just outside Cochabamba, this religious festival brings thousands of pilgrims and visitors together to celebrate the Virgen de Urcupiña. It’s one of Bolivia’s most important religious festivals, blending Catholic and Andean beliefs.
Pilgrims make their way to the statue of the Virgin Mary in the main sanctuary, while the celebrations also feature traditional dancing and street parties. The “entrada” procession is filled with colorful costumes and traditional music. The festival lasts several days, ending with a symbolic stone-chipping ritual where devotees break off pieces of rock from a nearby hill, believing it brings prosperity.
What to expect:
Since Quillacollo is relatively close to Cochabamba, you can make this trip easily if you’re in the area. It’s both a spiritual and lively event, with religious devotees mixing with dancers and festival-goers. The streets of Quillacollo come alive with food stalls, so this is also a great time to try some local dishes like “silpancho” and chicha, a fermented corn drink.
El Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
On November 2nd, Bolivia partakes in the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a day dedicated to honoring loved ones who have passed away. Unlike typical festivals, this event is more intimate and family-oriented. Families gather at cemeteries and believe that the spirits of the dead return to Earth for 24 hours to reunite with them.

Altar offerings, known as “t’antawawas,” are placed for the spirits, usually consisting of bread, sweets, and their favorite foods. While it’s a day to remember the deceased, it’s also a celebration filled with love, music, and food.
What to expect:
If you’re in Bolivia during this time, you’ll notice that cemeteries are decorated with vibrant flowers and offerings. While it’s a time reserved for families, some cities also host public parades and events. You can respectfully visit cemeteries to witness the ceremonies, but make sure to approach with sensitivity, as it remains a deeply personal occasion for locals.
Bolivian Independence Day
On August 6th, Bolivia celebrates its independence from Spanish rule. The day is marked with parades, fireworks, and civic events across the country. The biggest celebrations take place in Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital, where independence was declared in 1825.

In addition to the formal parades, most cities host street parties and live music performances. It’s a great way to engage with locals and learn about Bolivia’s history.
What to expect:
If you find yourself in Sucre on this day, you’ll witness the most patriotic displays, but even cities like La Paz and Cochabamba will have their own parades and festivities. Expect large crowds, lively marches, and lots of flag-waving. This is a proud day for Bolivians, and you’ll definitely enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
The week leading up to Easter is known as Semana Santa in Bolivia, and it’s a major religious event. Cities like La Paz, Sucre, and Potosí host solemn processions where participants carry icons of Christ and the Virgin Mary through the streets. The traditions vary by region, but in many towns and villages, you’ll see dramatic reenactments of the Stations of the Cross.
While it’s a deeply religious event, it’s also a time when families gather and celebrate. Many towns see small fairs popping up, with food stalls selling treats like empanadas and “chicha morada.”
What to expect:
These religious processions are usually reflective and somber. You’ll see many locals dressed in black as they commemorate the Passion of Christ. However, after Good Friday, expect a joyous atmosphere come Easter Sunday, with lively gatherings and feasts.
Bolivia’s festivals are not just events; they are windows into the country’s soul. Whether you experience lively parades, spiritual gatherings, or intimate traditions, you’re guaranteed to leave with a deeper connection to Bolivia’s rich cultural heritage. Whichever time of year you decide to visit, there’s a festival waiting to be discovered!
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