CACHIMAYO FESTIVAL
Continuing on in the Cusco Region, we visit the town of Cachimayo in Peru as they celebrate the anniversary of its official creation as a district. May 15th marks the establishment of the district in the 70’s by a decree issued during the presidency of Juan Velasco Alvarado.
The annual festival celebrated here includes cultural performances and religious ceremonies, reflecting the local Andean traditions and community considering the district’s blend of Incan cultural heritage and Spanish colonial history.
Common traditional Andean dances can include Huayno or Marinera, which are accompanied by Andean instruments like the charango, quena (flute), and zampona (panpipe). Dance groups are dressed in vibrant costumes, often symbolizing historical or mythological events important to the region.
The traditional ornate hats of the Cachimayo women is not only an aesthetic value, but also a social and symbolic meaning. The hats indicate information about their identity including their marital status or affiliation with specific cultural groups.
Besides the performances and garb, the festival served popular Andean dishes including a famous Peruvian dish called Cuy Chactado, a crispy guinea pig usually served along with potato, corn and chili sauce.
