Cuenca Carnival 2026: Guide to Events, Dates, and Traditions
Cuenca is preparing to host one of its most vibrant and anticipated festivals of the year: Carnival 2026. Under the slogan "Carnival is in Cuenca - I Take Care of the Páramo," the city will be filled with festivities from January 31st to March 1st, offering an unforgettable experience that blends tradition, color, and the contagious joy of its inhabitants. From emblematic parades to gastronomic festivals and cultural events, Cuenca's Carnival promises to be a celebration for all ages.
Central Activities Not to Miss
The Carnival 2026 calendar is packed with events that capture the essence of this celebration. Here are some of the highlights you won't want to miss, focusing on events from February 7th onwards:
Tradition and Community
"4 Rivers of Cuenca" Carnival Parade: On Saturday, February 14th, at 09:00, Calle Bolívar transforms into a river of color and joy from San Blas to San Francisco, with this iconic parade organized by Amistad Club and the Union of Journalists of Azuay. An unmissable spectacle!
Thursday of Compadres and Comadres: One of Cuenca's most deeply rooted Carnival customs takes over Parque La Libertad on Thursday, February 12th, at 18:00. A gathering full of music, dance, and the reaffirmation of bonds of friendship and godparenthood.
Carnavalazo (Sayausí & Sinincay): On Sunday, February 8th, at 14:00, the Central Plaza of Sayausí hosts its Carnavalazo. Also, don't miss the Sinincay Carnavalazo on Saturday, February 14th, at 14:00 at Glorieta de Sinincay. These community celebrations are full of local spirit!
Election of the "Comadre del Carnaval de Cuenca 2026": On Saturday, February 7th, at 14:00 in Plaza del Otorongo, witness the election of the Carnival Godmother, a beloved tradition.
Flavor and Gastronomy
Mote Festival at Vc Gourmet: Celebrate Cuenca's culinary richness on Saturday, February 7th, at 12:00 at Restaurante Vc Gourmet, where mote, the star ingredient of local gastronomy, will be the protagonist.
World's Largest Motepata: On Saturday, February 14th, at 10:00, Plaza San Francisco will host this multitudinous event, where you can taste the traditional motepata, an iconic Carnival dish.
Sharing of Traditional Carnival Sweets: On the same Saturday, February 14th, at 11:00, the CEMUART Municipal Artisan Center will be the ideal place to sweeten your palate with the typical delicacies of the season.
Flavors of Carnival: On Thursday, February 12th, at 10:00, Casa de las Palomas offers more culinary delights to explore.
Carnival Brunch: On Sunday, February 15th, from 09:00 to 15:00, Pura Vida Restaurant (Gran Colombia and Benigno Malo) offers a special Carnival Brunch.
Music and Entertainment
"Cuenca Flow" Carnival Concert: Another great musical event at the Alejandro Serrano Aguilar Stadium on Saturday, February 14th, at 18:00, to close the central Carnival weekend with the best energy.
Carnival Concert “Everyone Stands Up”: The Alejandro Serrano Aguilar Stadium will vibrate with this massive concert on Friday, February 13th, at 18:00, promising a night full of rhythm and celebration.
Theatrical Tour: Carnival on the Banks of the Tomebamba: Experience this unique theatrical journey multiple times: Saturday, February 14th, at 14:30; Sunday, February 15th, at 11:30 and 14:30; and Monday, February 16th, at 11:30 and 14:30, all starting at La Merced Plaza.
Expo Cuencart & Wayka Ruraq Maki Artisan Fair: From February 19th to 22nd, Plaza de San Francisco (09:00) and Plazoleta de Santo Domingo (08:00) respectively, host art and artisan fairs, showcasing local talent and crafts.
Navigate Carnival with Ease: Your Interactive Guide!
With so many exciting events, how can you make sure you don't miss anything? The answer is simple: with the Interactive Cuenca Map. This digital tool is your ideal companion for Carnival, allowing you to explore in detail all events, their exact locations, schedules, and descriptions. Forget paper maps and confusion; the Interactive Cuenca Map offers you a fluid and intuitive experience to plan your Carnival route, discover hidden gems, and fully immerse yourself in the celebration. With just one click, you'll have all the information you need to experience Carnival 2026 to the fullest!
Interactive Cuenca Map
Tired of endlessly searching for a cash ATM or the best artisanal coffee in Cuenca? Stop wandering and start exploring with confidence. Our Interactive Cuenca Map is your key to unlocking all the city's secrets, from essential services to hidden gems. Sign up now and experience Cuenca like a local
Don't Stay Home, Carnival Awaits You!
Cuenca invites you to be part of this explosion of culture, flavor, and tradition. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in local customs, delight your palate with festive gastronomy, or dance to the rhythm of the music, Carnival 2026 has something special for you. Prepare your festive spirit and come celebrate with us!
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