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Puno Sets Candelaria 2026 Schedule as Festival Readies for Jan. 16 Launch

Police leaders say a multisector plan will safeguard the events.

Overview

  • The Federación Regional de Folklore y Cultura confirmed the program at the UNA stadium and Plaza Mayor, with a ceremonial kickoff on Friday, January 16.
  • Core dates include the Danzas Originarias contest on January 31–February 1, a solemn mass on February 2, the Traje de Luces contest on February 8, and street parades and veneration on February 9–10 with 97 groups.
  • Organizers project more than 150,000 dancers participating across the month-long celebration.
  • Event authorities stated that political campaigning will not be permitted during festival activities.
  • A safeguarding committee’s proposal to regulate foreign bands, costumes and musicians drew objections from some Bolivian cultural groups, with officials preparing a formal response through Peru’s Foreign Ministry.