For decades Lima has been one of the most influential capitals in all of South America. Rich in unique customs and traditions that are part of our national identity.
Lima is famous for its wide cultural biodiversity throughout Latin America, a coastal capital full of history.
The city of memories, so desired and remembered by previous generations, has behind it a history of its own customs and adopted customs that give it a special richness to strengthen the pride of the limeños. Uncovering the history is the identity.
To emerge yourself into the discovery of Lima’s more valuable and important traditions , don’t forget to have your tourist SIM card, easily in hand , with PeruSIM as your best ally during this city tour.
Shall we take a look now on the most remarkable traditions on Lima that have been taking place nowadays:
What are the customs and traditions of Lima?
As A result for limean traditions several of the customs that the actual Lima has is a result of the Lima’s viceroyalty , were maintained during the republican life of Peru , evolving into new traditions that had been celebrated on these present years such as:
Pisco Day:
Pisco is an alcoholic beverage prepared from grapes, originating in Peru in the 16th century. It was produced from the first vines brought to the territory by the Marquis Francisco de Caravantes.
The first wine and pisco production centers were Ica and Moquegua. In 1630, exports from these regions to Central America began. Later, in 1791, to Valparaíso, Valdivia and Concepción, and finally, in 1800, the European and North American markets were already covered.
The celebration of Pisco Day takes place on the fourth Sunday of July. On this date, the people of Lima celebrate the tourist impulse of the Peru brand thanks to one of its main products. The first Saturday of February is Pisco Sour Day. During this festivity, a series of exhibitions, pairings and gastronomic fairs are held in the capital city.
The Lima Carnivals
The Lima Carnival is a Lima tradition full of color, music and joy. This traditional popular festival is celebrated in the Historic Center with parades, dances, floats, and “other boisterous rejoicings” is celebrated every year 40 days before the Catholic Lent.
In Peru, Carnival is celebrated on Monday, February 24 and Tuesday, February 25.
The festivity usually takes place between the last days of February and the beginning of March, so its date is mobile and varies every year.
Carnival comes from the Italian word Carnevale which means to remove the meat. The term was used as a way of saying goodbye to meat to enter the Christian Lenten cycle. The adoption of the festival was celebrated as a period of liberation from human pleasures, thus, its meaning was related to the disinhibition of earthly pleasures.
Out of this historical context today during the carnivals in Lima. The most used material for the carnivals in Peru is water, this is filled in buckets and balloons, which are thrown in the street to all who pass, being the main form of fun in the carnival activities.
It is also traditional to use paint and talcum powder. The comparsas and parades are also seen on carnival days, the music and dance groups are commonly formed by children and young people who participate from their dance associations and schools.
Military peruvian parade of Independence day
The Independence of Peru has been celebrated on July 28th since 1821 and Lima is no exception. Being the capital, it concentrates a great part of the events of the state as well as of diverse institutions.
Part of the celebrations is a military parade where members of the Peruvian Armed Forces participate, as well as the canine command, the National Police band, among other cultural groups.
Thousands of people arrive at Avenida Brasil every July 29th to see the civic spectacle offered by the military. It is a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation and represents a custom for many Peruvians. As is to be expected, while these acts are taking place, you can taste various typical dishes and traditional desserts to complete the experience.
‘Santa Rosa’ of Lima
Every Limeño knows the story of Santa Rosa de Lima, and may even have visited her house at some point and placed his wish in the well in her courtyard.
The story of this saint from Lima named Isabel Flores de Oliva is a mystery and, therefore, several biographers have studied her life to get closer and closer to her way of thinking and legacy.
Undoubtedly, she is a very venerated saint in Peru, who has been part of the imagination and culture of the country for many years. She is the patron saint of several institutions such as the National Police of Peru. Every August 30, Saint Rose of Lima is venerated in different parts of the city and the country.
Anniversary of lima:
It is a celebration that takes place from January 15 to 25 of each year, commemorating the founding of the city. On the eve of January 18, the inhabitants of the city share and enjoy cultural presentations, gastronomic tastings and fireworks.
On the following days, parades are held and various folkloric shows are organized, in which Peruvian and international cultural and artistic groups perform.
Now that we got to know these traditions by its historical record and also their date of function, try to participate in these activities during your visit to Peru.Finally, we know that you have to keep communication with your relatives and friends, that you need to be able to orient yourself in new cities, that you might need help with translation and that you might need to search for restaurants or hotels. That’s why with PeruSIM you can buy a SIM card including the data plan of your need without having to worry about high roaming costs.