The popular festivals in Salta

This northern province is capable of making its visitors fall in love with its landscapes, culture and gastronomy, but there are certain times of the year when this place becomes even prettier and more interesting. Especially filled with colors, we can witness the traditions and cultural expressions of the place, all possible thanks to the popular festivals in Salta. 

Most of these celebrations have a religious tinge. However, despite the beliefs of each one, they are worth enjoying. In short, they are a sight for any visitor. In order for you to have more specific details about each one, what they consist of and when they are celebrated, we will share relevant information below. We are sure that you will not hesitate to include some of the popular festivals in Salta!

·         MIRACLE FESTIVITY

The Miracle Festival is a religious event celebrated in September. The faithful gather and carry out a great procession in honor of the Virgin of the Miracle.

But it’s not like that! To get to the city on the day of the festival (15 of the aforementioned month), parishioners from all parts of the puna begin their march to this destination days before. Thus, Salta receives religious people from San Antonio de los Cobres, Cachi and Iruya. We are talking about walks of 500, 300 and 200 km. 

The villagers wait with water and food for the pilgrims who arrive praying. Meanwhile, others arrive playing the native music of the place and dancing typical dances of the puna. After the above described, the group of pilgrims comes to represent a show in itself. 

We must not leave aside the weavers who work on the ancestral loom and the men who make masks. They also go out with their saints and join the procession. 

·         NATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE PACHAMAMA

Without a doubt, the National Festival of the Pachamama is one of the most important national celebrations, having great relevance in the province of Salta. We are talking about one of the parts of the country where the festivities stand out for their great show.

The main objective of this celebration is to thank Mother Nature for everything she provides, and to apologize for any offenses towards her. In this sense, during the Pachamama (in Salta) the house is cleaned and purified, while different rituals are performed in honor of the Pachamama.

The National Pachamama Festival and its celebrations usually coincide with Pachamama Day, which is August 1st. If you are planning a trip for this month of the year, don’t miss out on this festive experience.

·         NATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE EMPANADA

This celebration, as its name says, is in honor of one of the most famous typical dishes of the province. For this reason, the main event of the festival is the National Empanada Contest, an event that usually takes place on July 18.

On that day, chefs and cooks from the area cook all kinds of empanadas from Salta. Thus, tourists and locals taste and choose the winner. Additionally, Salta has other delicious typical dishes that you can learn about in our article about the best restaurants in the province.

·         PEPPER FESTIVAL

If you are a gastronomy lover and want to witness a celebration with lots of food, shows and folklore, the ideal alternative is the Pimento Festival.

You will be able to witness traditional Salta dances, buy local handicrafts and other products that are made in the province, all of this without leaving out the delights that the exquisite local food promise. The main event of the Pepper Festival has the election of the National Paisana. 

·         COMMEMORATION OF GENERAL MARTÍN MIGUEL GÜEMES

During this commemoration, events are held in honor of General Martín Miguel Güemes, former governor of Salta who kept the city free from invasions. To commemorate the anniversary of his death, gaucho parades and all kinds of cultural and sporting events are held that fill the city of Salta with colors and joy.

These are the popular festivals in Salta. Whichever you choose, you can include it in your travel itinerary. To do this, we invite you to consult our travel specialists. You will not regret it! It is the perfect complement to enjoy your destination. They combine history, culture, fun and gastronomy.