If you are away from home traveling in Peru during the Christmas season, you are lucky, because Christmas in Peru, and especially in Cusco, is beautiful! Exploring the new customs and traditions of Peruvian culture will create memories that will last a lifetime. Here are tips on where and what to eat at Christmas in Cusco
When is Christmas celebrated in Peru?
As in many other countries, Christmas is also celebrated in Cusco on December 24 and 25. It is a very special time of the year to spend time with the family and have a special Christmas dinner together. A wide variety of dishes can be found during the Christmas season in Peru, depending on the family and the region. Most families in Cusco meet on Christmas Eve to celebrate a great meal together, exchange gifts and put the baby Jesus in his manger at midnight on the 24th.
What are the typical Peruvian Christmas dishes?
You might wonder what typical dishes the people of Cusco eat during Christmas. Get ready to try the classic stuffed turkey, the piglet (roast pork), the roast beef, the baked guinea pig and much more. Chicken (chicken) and guinea pig are some of the very old and traditional dishes that the Incas ate before European and North American influence arrived in Peru.
Where to go for Christmas dinner in Cusco?
These local dishes are served in several restaurants and hostels throughout Cusco. Don Tomás, Pachapapa and Organika restaurants are just some of the restaurants that are open (also 24) and offer special Christmas menus.
Typical Peruvian Christmas cake
One of the most popular delicacies during the Christmas season in Peru is to eat a sweet bread or cake called «paneton». This is sold in almost all bakeries and stores, and it is a seasonal tradition that you should definitely not miss! All Peruvians love it!
In addition, the famous Plaza de Armas of Cusco is full of ornaments, Christmas lights and dolls, and Christmas dinners are taken to the less fortunate Peruvian families who have moved home during Christmas.
Christmas fair in Cusco
A unique activity during the Christmas season in Cusco is the Santurantikuy Christmas fair, which takes place in the Plaza de Armas of Cusco on December 24. Here, you have the perfect opportunity to explore the stalls while drinking a traditional punch. This is a hot drink that has milk, sugar, carob, eggs and sometimes a touch of alcohol. It is the custom of Peruvians to drink this delicious drink while they attend the market and wait for the fireworks on Christmas Eve!
Tasty Peruvian food
There are many opportunities to experience tasty Peruvian food and drink during the holiday season. Whether you decide to dine in an elegant restaurant in Cusco or find a local place, visit a hotel or challenge Peruvian street food, you will experience an unforgettable Christmas season in Peru, as you know where and what to eat at Christmas in Cusco.
