3 Major Holidays in South America
South America is a diverse continent with a rich cultural heritage. Every year, it celebrates a number of holidays that highlight its colorful history and traditions. In this blog post, we will explore three of the major holidays in South America and the customs and traditions associated with them.
Carnaval
Carnaval is celebrated throughout South America, but it is most famously celebrated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This festival is a celebration of life and joy, and it is characterized by colorful costumes, lively parades, and vibrant music. Thousands of people participate in the parades by dancing and singing as they make their way through the streets. Carnaval lasts for four days, beginning on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday.
Inti Raymi
Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, is a major holiday in Peru that celebrates the Inca sun god. The festival takes place on June 24th, the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. The festival begins with a procession from the main square in Cusco to the ancient Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman. During the procession, the participants wear traditional Inca costumes and carry offerings to the sun god. At Sacsayhuaman, a reenactment of the ancient Inca ceremony takes place, which includes blessing the harvest and asking for protection from the sun god for the coming year.
Dia de los Muertos
Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a holiday celebrated in Mexico and other parts of South America. This holiday is a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. It takes place on November 1st and 2nd and is a time of celebration rather than mourning. People set up altars in their homes with pictures and offerings to their loved ones, and they visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves. The holiday is a beautiful and colorful celebration of life and the afterlife.
In conclusion, South America has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is evident in the many holidays and festivals that take place throughout the year. These three holidays are just a few examples of the celebrations that bring the people of South America together to honor their traditions and customs. Whether you are a local or a tourist, these holidays are a wonderful way to experience the rich culture and hospitality of South America.