Paraguay might be small, but it sure knows how to throw a party. From cultural to religious festivals, this country is full of lively celebrations. If you’re planning a visit, make sure to add a few of these unique events to your itinerary. Each one gives a glimpse into Paraguay’s deep-rooted traditions, music, and wonderful food. Here’s a look at the top festivals and seasonal events you should not miss!
San Juan Festival
San Juan Festival is one of Paraguay’s most important traditional celebrations. It’s celebrated across the country in late June, usually around June 24. The festival is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and blends native Guaraní customs with Spanish colonial traditions.
What makes San Juan special? Expect lots of fun activities, from walking over hot coals, the famous “toro candil” (a mock bullfight), to “kambuchi jejoka,” a game where blindfolded participants smash clay pots. Local food is a big part of the festival too. You’ll find traditional Paraguayan dishes like sopa paraguaya, chipa, and mbejú everywhere.
If you love lively atmospheres, San Juan is for you! It’s celebrated in many towns, so you won’t have trouble finding one to join. Among the best places to experience San Juan are the capital Asunción and the town of San Juan Bautista in Misiones.
Carnival of Encarnación
If you’re into colorful parades and music, Carnival of Encarnación is a must. Taking place in January and February, this is Paraguay’s biggest carnival. The streets of Encarnación come alive with floats, dancers, and vibrant costumes. It’s the Paraguayan version of Rio’s famous carnival, just on a smaller scale.
Encarnación’s carnival is famous for its “sambódromo”—a stadium where samba dancers show off their moves to the beats of traditional Paraguayan music. You can buy a ticket for the sambódromo or simply enjoy the street parades.
Don’t forget to try local treats at the carnival. There’s plenty of street food like chipas (cheese bread), empanadas, and ice-cold tereré—Paraguay’s famous herbal tea.
Patron Saint Festivals
Every town in Paraguay has a Patron Saint, and with it comes a feast day celebration. These festivals happen throughout the year, each one honoring a specific saint that the town is named after.
One of the most popular is the Virgen de Caacupé celebration, held every December 8 in the town of Caacupé. Pilgrims from all over Paraguay walk miles to reach the town’s basilica for a religious ceremony honoring the Virgin Mary. The event is deeply spiritual, but there’s also a festive atmosphere with music, dancing, and local food vendors. If you happen to be in Paraguay during this time, witnessing this event is an unforgettable experience.
Festival del Lago Ypacaraí
Taking place every January, the Festival del Lago Ypacaraí is all about celebrating art and culture. Held next to the scenic Ypacaraí Lake, this festival showcases Paraguay’s best musicians, dancers, and artisans. It’s a major event for locals and attracts visitors who want to immerse themselves in the country’s cultural scene.
You can expect live performances of music genres like polka paraguaya and guarania, along with traditional Paraguayan dances. If you appreciate art and crafts, you’ll love browsing through the market stalls featuring beautiful handmade goods. It’s a great way to experience authentic Paraguayan craftsmanship while soaking in the lake views.
Nanduti Festival
Paraguay is known for its traditional lace, and the Nanduti Festival in Itauguá is where lace lovers go to admire it. This vibrant event usually takes place in July and showcases Paraguay’s intricate lacework known as “nanduti,” which means “spider web” in Guaraní. The lace resembles a web-like design, and it’s truly beautiful.
You can stroll through markets filled with lace products, from tablecloths to clothing. There are also cultural activities like folklore music, dance performances, and food stalls offering delicious Paraguayan street food. If you’re looking to take home a truly unique souvenir, this festival might be where you find it.
Transchaco Rally
Love adventure? Check out the Transchaco Rally held in September. It’s one of the toughest car races in South America, and it takes place in Paraguay’s harsh Chaco region. Drivers and their teams battle through mud, dust, and extreme conditions in this multi-day race through some of the country’s most rugged terrain.
If you decide to attend, you’ll be caught up in the adrenaline and excitement as locals cheer on their favorite racers. The rally is a big event, and even if you’re not into motorsports, it’s a great way to see a different side of Paraguay.
Expo Feria Internacional de Mariano Roque Alonso
If you’re curious about agriculture and industry, head to the Expo Feria in Mariano Roque Alonso. It’s held every July and is the biggest business fair in the country. The Expo features livestock competitions, exhibition halls, and plenty of food stalls offering traditional Paraguayan delicacies.
Music is also a big part of the Expo, with live performances from popular local bands. Whether you’re a fan of cattle shows or aren’t sure what to expect, the Expo has something for everyone. It’s a mix of business, entertainment, and culture all in one place.
Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)
Like many Latin American countries, Paraguay honors the dead with Día de los Muertos. This celebration takes place on November 2 and is a time for families to remember their loved ones by visiting cemeteries and offering flowers, food, and candles. The event has a solemn vibe but also carries a sense of solidarity and respect.
While it may not be as festive as some of the other events on this list, it’s a wonderful opportunity to witness local customs and appreciate Paraguay’s deep connection to family and tradition.
Christmas and New Year in Paraguay
The holiday season is full of celebrations in Paraguay. Christmas in Paraguay is a great time to experience religious traditions, family gatherings, and street parties. Unlike many places where Christmas is during winter, here it’s a warm-weather celebration with outdoor barbecues (“asados”). You’ll see fireworks light up the sky on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
The basilica in Caacupé is a focal point for Christmas masses, and you’ll also find lively street fairs in cities like Asunción during this time. If you’re traveling at the end of the year, don’t miss out on the festive local atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Paraguay is vibrant and full of energy during its festivals and events. Whether you’re exploring the colorful streets during Carnival or enjoying traditional foods at a festival, there’s always something happening. Add these events to your travel plans, and you’ll get to experience deep-rooted traditions, mouth-watering food, and the warm hospitality of the Paraguayan people.
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