La Paz events and festivals showcase the rich cultural heritage and vibrant energy of Bolivia‘s administrative capital. From traditional religious celebrations to modern music festivals, there is a diverse range of activities that take place throughout the year, drawing in both locals and tourists alike.
Feria de Alasitas
Held annually in January, the Feria de Alasitas is a popular festival that celebrates the Aymara New Year. The festival is held at the Witches’ Market in La Paz, where vendors sell miniature items, known as “alasitas,” which are believed to bring good luck for the upcoming year. Visitors can purchase everything from tiny cars and houses to miniature tools and even university degrees. The festival also features traditional dances, music, and food, making it a lively and festive event.
Carnaval de Oruro
Held in February or March, Carnaval de Oruro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important festivals in Bolivia. The event takes place in the city of Oruro, which is located about four hours from La Paz by bus. The carnival features thousands of dancers and performers dressed in elaborate costumes, who parade through the streets to the beat of traditional Bolivian music. The event is known for its vibrant colors, energetic dancers, and intricate masks and costumes.
Fiesta de la Candelaria
Held in February, the Fiesta de la Candelaria is a religious festival that celebrates the Virgin of Candelaria. The festival is held in the city of Copacabana, which is located about three hours from La Paz by bus. The event features a procession of people carrying candles and statues of the Virgin Mary through the streets. The festival also includes traditional dances, music, and food, making it a lively and festive event.
Fiesta de la Cruz
Held in May, the Fiesta de la Cruz is a religious festival that celebrates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The festival is held in several neighborhoods throughout La Paz, and features parades of people carrying crosses and statues of Jesus through the streets. The festival also includes traditional dances, music, and food, making it a lively and festive event.
Fiesta de la Vendimia
Held in February, the Vendimia Festival is celebrated in the wine-growing regions of El Alto, a city located just outside La Paz. The festival is a celebration of the grape harvest and features wine tastings, traditional music and dances, and a parade of people dressed in traditional Bolivian clothing.
La Paz International Film Festival
Held annually in April, the La Paz International Film Festival is one of the most important cultural events in Bolivia. The festival features a diverse selection of films from around the world, including both feature films and short films. The festival also includes panel discussions, workshops, and other events, making it a great opportunity for film enthusiasts to connect with other like-minded people.
Festival of the Sun
Held in June, the Festival of the Sun is a traditional Andean festival that celebrates the winter solstice and the start of the new agricultural year. The festival is held in the city of Tiwanaku, which is located about two hours from La Paz by bus. The event features traditional music and dances, as well as rituals and ceremonies that pay homage to the sun and the earth.
Fiesta de la Patria
Held annually on August 6th, the Fiesta de la Patria is a national holiday that celebrates Bolivia’s independence from Spain in 1825. The festival is celebrated throughout the country, but La Paz is one of the best places to experience it. The event features parades, traditional music and dances, and fireworks.
La Paz Music Festival
Held in October, the La Paz Music Festival is a modern music festival that features a diverse lineup of local and international acts. The festival takes place in various venues throughout the city, including outdoor stages and indoor concert halls. The festival is a great opportunity to enjoy live music and connect with other music lovers.
Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña
Held in September, the Fiesta de la Virgen de Urkupiña is a religious festival that celebrates the Virgin Mary. The festival is held in the city of Quillacollo, which is located about an hour from La Paz by bus. The event features a procession of people carrying statues of the Virgin Mary through the streets, traditional music and dances, and a fair with food and crafts.
Fiesta de San Francisco
Held in October, the Fiesta de San Francisco is a religious festival that celebrates Saint Francis of Assisi. The festival is held in the city of El Alto, which is located just outside of La Paz. The event features a procession of people carrying statues of Saint Francis through the streets, traditional music and dances, and a fair with food and crafts.
All Saints Day
Held on November 1st, All Saints Day is a religious holiday that is celebrated throughout Bolivia, but is particularly significant in La Paz. The holiday is a time for people to honor and remember deceased loved ones and friends. Many people visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones, and traditional music and dances are often performed.
All Souls Day
Held on November 2nd, All Souls Day is a religious holiday that is celebrated throughout Bolivia, but is particularly significant in La Paz. The holiday is a time for people to honor and remember deceased loved ones and friends. Many people visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones, and traditional music and dances are often performed.
Fiesta de la Mama Pacha
Held in December, the Fiesta de la Mama Pacha is a traditional Andean festival that celebrates the earth and mother nature. The festival is held in various indigenous communities throughout the Andean region, including the city of El Alto, which is located just outside of La Paz. The event features traditional music, dances, and rituals that pay homage to the earth and the natural world. The festival also includes a fair with food, crafts, and traditional medicine.
La Paz Jazz Festival
Held annually in December, the La Paz Jazz Festival is a modern music festival that features a diverse lineup of jazz acts from around the world. The festival takes place in various venues throughout the city, including outdoor stages and indoor concert halls. The festival is a great opportunity to enjoy live jazz music and connect with other music lovers.
Christmas and New Year’s Eve
Christmas and New Year’s Eve are celebrated throughout Bolivia, but La Paz offers its own unique way of celebrating these holidays. Christmas Eve is celebrated with traditional music, dancing and fireworks, while New Year’s Eve celebrations are marked with spectacular fireworks displays and parties. Many people attend mass on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and it is a time for families to come together and celebrate.
In conclusion, La Paz is host to a plethora of events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and vibrant energy of Bolivia. From traditional religious celebrations to modern music festivals, there is a diverse range of activities to choose from, offering a unique experience for visitors to enjoy. So, if you’re planning a visit to Bolivia, be sure to check out some of the festivals and events taking place in La Paz and immerse yourself in the local culture.
