Festivals in Ecuador 2024 | Traditional Ecuadorian Holidays

Ecuador, famed for its stunning scenery and indigenous culture, is home to festivals and celebrations that showcase its diverse heritage. From religious observances to agricultural festivities, Ecuadorians come together throughout the year to honour their traditions with parades, music, and local dishes.

If you’re eager to partake in Ecuador’s festive spirit, look no further! This guide highlights some of the best festivals in Ecuador, delving into their origins, cultural significance, and the exciting experiences they offer. Who is ready to plan your travels around the fiestas in Ecuador?

Fiestas Octubrinas in Baños de Agua Santa

Festivals in Ecuador you must experience

La Diablada de Pillaro

Where: Pillaro, Tungurahua province

When: 1-6 January

Have you ever heard of the Devil’s Dance or Diablada de Pillaro? It’s an epic six-day fiesta kicking off the new year from January 1st to January 6th in Tungurahua province, Ecuador.

Imagine the sight of people wearing devil costumes and masks, symbolising the age-old battle of good versus evil. Colourful parades flood the streets to the beat of traditional tunes, blending indigenous Andean beliefs with Spanish colonial vibes.

The town lights up with street dancing, processions, and jaw-dropping performances by masked characters. Meet the diablos, decked out in paper-mâché masks and wicked animal horns, representing those pesky evil spirits. And don’t miss the guaricha, a special character traditionally performed by men.

As the parade rolls through the streets of Pillaro, revellers invite others to join in the celebration. Talk about an incredible chance to dive into Ecuador’s festival scene!

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La Diablada de Pillaro (© Pixabay)

Ecuadorian Mardi Gras

Where: Many cities in Ecuador

When: February-March

The Ecuadorian Mardi Gras, known locally as Carnival, is a high-spirited event that plays an important part in the holidays and traditions of Ecuador!

This pre-Lenten festival typically begins in February and lasts until March, with the main celebration usually taking place on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, known as Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday. It sets the stage for the Lenten season, which lasts around six weeks until Easter Sunday.

Ecuadorian Mardi Gras has some serious roots. It all started with the indigenous Huarangas tradition, where folks would toss flowers, water, and flour to honour the second moon of the year. When the Spanish landed, this custom merged with Christian beliefs, and this is how the Carnival scene was born!

Think vibrant street parades, epic costumes, and masks galore. It’s all about getting down to the beat of traditional tunes played on local instruments. Don’t forget to try the Chicha de Jora, a corn-based fermented drink that is an absolute must-try during the festivities!

Semana Santa

Where: Many cities in Ecuador

When: February-March

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, in Ecuador, is a time of deep religious significance and one of the most important holidays celebrated in Ecuador. Dating back to the Spanish colonial era, this week-long observance commemorates the final days of Jesus Christ and is celebrated across Mexico, Central and South America.

From Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, towns and cities have processions featuring ornate floats depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. Devout worshippers gather for religious services and to re-enact Stations of the Cross, wearing traditional KKK-style dress and carrying the cross through the streets.

During Semana Santa, Ecuadorians uphold age-old customs like fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, alongside attending church services and engaging in religious ceremonies. But it’s not just about the spiritual side—culinary traditions play a big part too. Families come together to feast on specialties like fanesca, a hearty soup concocted from 12 varieties of grains and beans, symbolising the 12 apostles.

Corpus Christi festival

Where: Across Ecuador

When: June (60 days after Easter)

Corpus Christi in Ecuador is more than just a Catholic festival—it’s a fusion of Spanish colonial history and ancient Andean culture. Introduced by the Spanish during their conquest of South America, it falls sixty days after Easter, coinciding with indigenous traditions like Inti and Pachamama, which honour the sun and harvest.

During the Corpus Christi festival, you’ll experience a lively mix of religious masses and street parties. The streets come alive with religious processions featuring brightly-colored floats adorned with Catholic icons and floral displays, while participants don traditional attire. It’s an exuberant atmosphere filled with folkloric dancing to sounds of traditional music, along with prayers and hymns.

The big event includes spectacular fireworks displays, eating “Corpus sweets” and toasting with friends and family over canelazos, a traditional hot fruit drink mixed with alcohol. What a perfect time for cultural immersion into the holidays and traditions in Ecuador.

Procession for Octava de Corpus Christi © Pexels

Inti Raymi

Where: Across Ecuador, mainly Andean highlands

When: Late June

Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun, has its roots deeply embedded in ancient Inca culture. Celebrated in June to coincide with the winter solstice, this revered festival is observed throughout Ecuador, especially in the Andean highlands.

During Inti Raymi, expect to see age-old rituals and ceremonies expressing gratitude to Inti, the sun god, for providing light and warmth for a good harvest. People offer symbolic gifts of food, chicha (traditional drink), and coca leaves to the sun god, accompanied by heartfelt prayers.

it’s not all serious stuff—you’ll spot lively parades, where people dress in traditional outfits. Music and dance take centre stage, with energetic performances telling the story of Inca tales and traditions, all set to the sound of drums and panpipes. As with most Ecuadorian holidays and traditions, food features heavily and tables are piled high with mouthwatering Andean treats like quinoa, potatoes, and juicy roasted meats.

Tribute of the Birds

Where: Ozogoche, Chimborazo province

When: September

Every September, indigenous Kichwa communities near the tiny village of Ozogoche come together for the Tribute of the Birds—a wild and fascinating Ecuadorian celebration.

Flocks of upland sandpipers, or cuvivíes in Spanish, migrate south from North America for warmer climes. However, hundreds of the birds meet a tragic fate as they plunge to their demise into the icy waters of Ozogoche Lakes (Lagunas de Ozogoche).

This curious phenomenon of “suicide” is interpreted as the birds sacrificing their lives as offerings to the Apus or the spirits residing in the sacred lake. The scientists have yet to find a reason why this occurs.

The Tribute of the Birds stands out as one of the most spiritual events in Ecuador, filled with traditional Andean music and dance. Shamans lead purification rituals to honour the birds and their sacrifices are used to prepare a feast.

The Lakes of Ozogoche, comprise 45 small lagoons in the province of Chimborazo near the village of Guamote and the city of Alausi. If, like me, you narrowly miss out on the annual Cuvivi Cultural Festival, consider heading to Sangay National Park anyway. Nature lovers can enjoy epic hikes, indulge in some birdwatching, and explore the diverse ecosystems.

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Mama Negra

Where: Latacunga, Cotopaxi province

When: 24 September + 11 November

Mama Negra, an Ecuadorian festival, pays tribute to the Virgin de la Merced (Virgin of Mercy), whose roots date back to the 1742 eruption of the Cotopaxi volcano. According to legend, Spanish Catholics implored the Virgin of Mercy to spare their city from the volcano’s wrath. The community pledged to honour her every year in gratitude for her protection. Concurrently, enslaved individuals arrived to work in the mines, and their presence became intertwined with the Mama Negra festival.

The Mama Negra big festivities are typically held on 23-24 September or the nearest weekend when indigenous communities arrive in Latacunga for the celebrations. There is a second less-exuberant Mama Negra festival in November which coincides with Latacunga’s Independence Day on the 11th.

A fusion of Spanish, Mayan, Inca, and African influences, the festival bursts with music, colour, and dance from morning to night. Ecuadorians flaunt flamboyant attire, showcasing traditional dances. Animal carcasses, like pigs and chickens, are paraded, with participants taking turns carrying the heavy loads, while others provide relief with stools. People in the parade will feed to homebrew to the crowd which I thought was fun but sent my head spinning after a while. This celebration is not for the faint-hearted!

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Mama Negra on a horse – Ecuadorian Festival in Latacunga

Fiestas Octobrinas

Where: Baños de Agua Santa 

When: October

The opening parade marks the energetic start of the Fiestas Octubrinas in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador! The processions with dancers and musicians representing different parishes with beautifully choreographed dances, with proud parents and family looking on.

This religious festival pays homage to the Virgin of the Rosary of Agua Santa, who reminds them of the constant fight that existed between Protestants and Catholics in days gone by. It is believed that the Virgin of the Rosary is a symbol of strength that protects Baños from all dangers, including the Tungurahua volcano.

Baños’ neighborhoods and parishes join in the festivities with a variety of activities: making chicha, exchanging flowers and candles, enjoying popular games, participating in processions, and attending masses.

With both local and international tourists flocking to town, Baños becomes a lively hub of activity in October. I was lucky to stumble upon the procession by accident as I stepped out of my hostel on the last Saturday of September.

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Dia de los Difuntos

Where: Across Ecuador

When: 2nd November

Dia de los Difuntos, or Day of the Dead, is a significant day in Ecuadorian culture where people pay heartfelt tribute to their departed loved ones. While it may not be as flashy as the Mexican celebrations, it’s a deeply introspective and respectful affair.

The tradition traces back to indigenous communities who held their ancestors in high regard, believing in life’s continuation after death. Over time, these beliefs blended with Catholic customs, shaping the Dia de los Difuntos we know today.

On November 2nd, families across Ecuador come together and head to cemeteries to spruce up graves with flowers, candles, and keepsakes. Religious rituals are observed, offering prayers for the souls of the departed, and bringing comfort to the living.

Traditional treats like colada morada (a spiced fruit drink) and guaguas de pan (sweet bread shaped like babies) are whipped up and shared, symbolising the ebb and flow of life.

While exploring Cuenca, I couldn’t help but notice those adorable sweet bread babies lining the shelves of the panaderías!

Guaguas de pan for Dia de los Difuntos

Fiestas de Quito

Where: Quito, Pichincha province

When: A week finishing on 6 December

The Fiestas de Quito is a highly anticipated annual bash in Ecuador’s capital, going down every December to mark the city’s founding in 1534. This week-long celebration has been going strong since the Spanish colonial days.

The party kicks off with the crowning of the Queen of Quito, setting the stage for some epic street parades! Imagine the scene of dancers rocking the traditional dress, musicians belting out lively tunes, and floats rolling by, telling Quito’s incredible story.

All week long, the city comes alive with cultural performances in parks, plazas, and theatres. You can catch folkloric dances, jam out to live music from Ecuadorian artists, and even check out theatrical productions that dive deep into Quito’s history. It’s a non-stop celebration of all things Quito!

And you can’t forget about the traditional Ecuadorian food! During the festival, street vendors and restaurants dish out all the local faves like llapingachos (potato pancakes), empanadas, and quimbolitos (steamed cakes). So, come hungry and ready to party!

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Año Viejo – New Year’s Eve

Where: Across Ecuador

When: 31st December

New Year’s Eve, or Año Viejo, is a big deal in Ecuadorian culture and happens all over the country. This Ecuador festival is all about saying adios to the old year and hola to the new one!

One of the quirkiest traditions of Año Viejo is making and burning “año viejos” or effigies that represent the old year. These life-sized dolls are crafted from papier-mâché, cloth, and other stuff, dressed in flashy clothes and accessories. They’re set up outside homes and businesses, or paraded through the streets, and then set on fire at midnight. It’s all about letting go of the past and getting excited for what’s ahead.

And that’s not all! Families and friends get together for epic parties, eating typical foods such as lechón (roasted pig) and loading up on drinks and desserts. As with most New Year’s parties around the world, there’s always a fireworks show lighting up the night with some serious sparkle!

Papier-mâché heads for the effigies burned on New Year’s Eve in Ecuador (© Unsplash)

A Step-By-Step Plan For Your Ecuador Trip

Calendar of Ecuadorian Festivals

Ecuadorian Festivals In January (Enero)

New Year’s Day – 1 January

La Diablada de Pillaro – 1-6 January

Epiphany’s Day – 6 January

Ecuadorian Festivals In February (Febrero)

Virgen de la Caridad – 2 February – Carchi

The Day of the East – 12 February – Puyo, Macas, Zamora, and Tena

Ecuadorian Festivals In March (Marzo)

Holy Week – March/April

Mardi Gras (Ecuador Carnival) – 4 March 2025

Ecuadorian Festivals In April (Abril)

Kasam Festival – 13-15 April

Ecuadorian Festivals In May (Mayo)

Labor Day (Día del Trabajo or Primero de Mayo) – 1 May – National Holiday

Custard Apple Festival – 3 May – Puná

Battle of Pichincha – 24 May

Corpus Christi festival – 30 May

Ecuadorian Festivals In June (Junio)

Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) – 18-24 June

Ecuadorian Festivals In July (Julio)

Paseo del Chagra – 21 July – Machachi, Cotopaxi province

Natalicio de Simón Bolívar (Simón Bolívar Day) – 24 July – National Holiday

Guayaquil Festival – 25 July

Ecuadorian Festivals In August (Agosto)

Pachamama Raymi – 1 August

El Dia del Primer Grito de Independencia de Quito (Ecuador Independence Day) – 10 August – National Holiday

Kako Wiiñaë Festival – 24-25 August – Cantesiaya

Ecuadorian Festivals In September (Septiembre)

Yamor Festival – Otovalo

Mama Negra – Latacunga

Tribute of the Birds – Ozogoche

Festivals of Cotacachi and the Sangolquí Maize Festival – 6-14 September

Imbabura Lakes Festival – 24-28 September – Ibarra

Ecuadorian Festivals In October (Octubre)

Fiestas de Octubrinas – October – Banos

Independence of Guayaquil – 9 October

Ecuadorian Festivals In November (Noviembre)

Dia de los Difuntos (Day of the Dead) – 2 November

Cuenca Independence Day – 3 November

Day of the Virgin of Quinche – 21 November – Pichincha Province

Ecuadorian Festivals In December (Deciembre)

Fiestas de Quito – 6 December

Navidad (Christmas) – 25 December

Festival of the Innocents and the End of the Year – 26-31 December – Atuntaqui

FAQS: Festivals in Ecuador

What is the biggest festival in Ecuador?

Ecuadorian Mardi Gras is celebrated nationwide, and is arguably the biggest festival in Ecuador. The carnival is a vibrant pre-Lenten festival marked by colourful parades, lively music, and exuberant street parties.

What is Ecuador’s most famous festival?

The most famous festival in Ecuador is Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun. Celebrated annually, it pays homage to the sun god Inti and blends indigenous traditions with Spanish colonial influences. The festival features traditional dances and rituals and draws visitors from around the world.

What is the main religion in Ecuador?

Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion in Ecuador, with approximately 70% of the population identifying as Catholics. However, there is religious diversity in the country, with smaller percentages adhering to Protestantism, other Christian denominations, indigenous beliefs, and non-religious affiliations.

When is Ecuador’s Independence Day?

Ecuador Independence Day is celebrated on August 10th. This significant national holiday commemorates Ecuador’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1809.

PIN FOR LATER – READ ABOUT FESTIVALS IN ECUADOR!

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