Peru celebrates Virgen de la Merced with regional traditions
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Each September 24, people across Peru gather to celebrate the Festividad in honor of the Virgen de la Merced, a Marian devotion rooted in the traditions of the Mercedarian Order founded in 13th-century Spain.
The order originally focused on redeeming Christian captives, and its presence in Peru dates back to the early colonial period, spreading from cities like Lima and Cusco.
Over time, local customs blended with the religious observance, resulting in unique celebrations throughout the country’s coast, highlands, and jungle. In Paita, a city in northern Peru, devotees make pilgrimages to participate in the festivities, which include a solemn mass and procession. Carhuaz, a town in the Ancash highlands, prepares for the celebration weeks in advance by making colación, a collection of traditional sweets distributed to those helping with the festival. This practice reinforces reciprocal relationships between organizers and supporters.
Juliaca, a city in the Puno region, combines religious devotion with vibrant folk dances like the morenada and caporales, showcasing Puno’s reputation as the capital of Peruvian folklore. Juanjuí, in the Amazonian department of San Martín, celebrates both the Virgin and the city’s founding on September 24, 1627. Festivities include traditional dances called La Pandilla and competitions highlighting skills like logging and weaving.
Through these varied celebrations, the Festividad de la Virgen de la Merced serves as a space for transmitting traditions, strengthening communities, and affirming local identities.
