Hi, I’m Jhimy, a Peru expert guide. Today, I´d love to share something truly special with you — our celebration of the Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day)
A Guide by Jhimy, Your Local Expert
I want to share something truly special—our celebration of the Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day), a tradition that is close to the heart of every Peruvian family. This time of year, November 1st and 2nd, holds deep meaning in our spirituality, and as a local, I’d love to give you an insider’s perspective on how we celebrate these important days.
What is the Día de Todos los Santos in Peru?
You might be wondering, “What is the Día de Todos los Santos in Peru?” In essence, it’s a time when we honor and remember the saints and our deceased loved ones. This day, November 1st, is dedicated to the saints, while the next day, November 2nd, is known as Día de los Difuntos or Día de los Muertos (Death’s day), focusing on our ancestors. Both days are filled with unique customs, symbolism, and spiritual traditions that vary from region to region.
But throughout Peru, it’s a time for family, community, and reflection. Personally, I visit the cemetery in Cusco, bring offerings to my grandmother, and try to connect with her through prayer.
A Fusion of Faith: The Catholic and Andean Origins of Peru’s Celebrations
The origins of this date go back centuries, with roots in both Catholic and Andean traditions. The Catholic Church set November 1st as a day to honor all saints, known and unknown, who have reached heaven. In Peru, this religious significance blends beautifully with ancient Andean beliefs in Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the cyclical nature of life, death, and the afterlife. This fusion of cultures creates a celebration unlike any other, where both the spiritual and the earthly realms come together.
How Do We Celebrate the Día de Todos los Santos in Peru?
One of the first things that will catch your eye during these celebrations is the vibrant and meaningful Día de Todos los Santos images—colorful displays, flowers, and beautifully arranged altars. We decorate graves with candles, food, and the favorite belongings of our deceased. Flowers, especially the cempasúchil (marigold), are laid out, their bright colors believed to guide spirits back to the world of the living.
Food is central to our celebrations too. We share Tanta Wawa, a traditional bread shaped like a baby (I recommend trying to buy one of them), symbolizing new life, and Lechón, a delicious roast pork dish. Sharing food with family and offering it to the departed is a way of maintaining our connection with those we’ve lost.
If you find yourself in Peru on November 1 and 2, you’ll see that the cemeteries are full of life. Families gather to clean and decorate graves, sing, tell stories, and even enjoy picnics together. It’s a moment where sadness turns into celebration, and remembrance becomes an act of love.
Phrases for Día de Todos los Santos
When visiting cemeteries or gathering with loved ones, you might hear heartfelt phrases for Día de Todos los Santos, such as “Siempre en nuestros corazones”, meaning “Forever in our hearts,” or “Que descanses en paz”, “Rest in peace.” These expressions of love and remembrance capture the essence of the day—honoring the memories of our parents who have passed on.
Origins of the Día de Todos los Santos
If you’re curious about the origin of Día de Todos los Santos, it’s a blend of Catholic and indigenous traditions. When Spanish colonizers arrived in Peru, they brought the Catholic observance of All Saints’ Day with them. Over time, this religious holiday merged with local beliefs about the afterlife and honoring the dead, creating a unique Peruvian interpretation of the celebration. The result is a meaningful, reflective, and joyful observance that continues to evolve while staying deeply rooted in tradition.
Why You Should Experience November 1 and 2 in Peru?
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, I highly recommend timing your visit around November 1 and 2. These two days offer a deep dive into our culture, allowing you to see how we honor both life and death. You’ll witness ancient traditions, taste delicious foods, and experience the warmth of Peruvian hospitality.
Whether you’re looking to capture images of Día de Todos los Santos or simply want to learn more about our customs, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with the true spirit of Peru through our beliefs, history, and strong sense of community.
Ready to join us in celebrating Día de Todos los Santos? Let’s make your next trip to Peru unforgettable!
I hope this personal perspective gives you a deeper understanding of what we celebrate on 1 and 2 de noviembre, and why this time of the year holds such a special place in our hearts. I look forward to welcoming you to Peru and sharing this beautiful tradition with you firsthand.
Hasta pronto,
Jhimy, your expert guide
