Immaculate Conception & Battle of Ayacucho in Peru 2026
About
Peru observes two national public holidays in early December: the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Inmaculada Concepción) on 8 December and the anniversary of the 1824 Battle of Ayacucho on 9 December, which sealed South American independence.
Highlights
- Two back-to-back December public holidays
- Marian processions on 8 December
- Civic commemoration of the decisive Battle of Ayacucho on 9 December
Practical tips
- A long weekend for many Peruvians — expect domestic travel
- Plan around reduced business hours on both days
Other upcoming events
Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun)
The Inca winter-solstice rite to Inti, the sun, re-enacted each year above Cusco at the fortress of Sacsayhuamán — the headline event of the Andean dry season, with hundreds of costumed performers.
Saints Peter and Paul in Peru 2026 (San Pedro y San Pablo)
29 June, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (San Pedro y San Pablo), is a Peruvian national public holiday, especially celebrated in fishing communities as a day honouring fishermen.
Machu Picchu Discovery Day 2026 (July 7)
July 7 marks the 1911 discovery of Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham — and, since 2007, its naming as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Cusco and Aguas Calientes mark the day with decorations, parades, folk music, dance and Pachamama offerings.