San Lucas de Colán in the province of Paita is preparing for the Festividad de Santiago Apóstol 2026. From July 15th to 27th, the program includes religious ceremonies, cultural events, and traditional equestrian activities.
Festival Week from July 15th to 27th
The festival kicks off on July 15th with the cultural program "Retablo a Santiago Apóstol 2026". This is followed by novenas, the solemn dressing of the saint's effigy, and cultural evening events with groups from various districts.
Highlights on July 24th and 25th
On July 24th, a serenade with national and international artists is planned. July 25th is the main day: A solemn mass, the procession, and the traditional equestrian events, known as "Batallas" in Colán, are scheduled.
Conclusion on July 27th
On July 26th, the religious and processional events continue. The festival concludes on July 27th with a civic-school parade featuring equestrian groups, government representatives, and the ceremony for the undressing of the Santiago Apóstol effigy.
Aiming for Recognition as National Cultural Heritage
Parallel to the festival week, the process for recognizing the celebration as "Patrimonio Cultural Inmaterial de la Nación" (Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Nation) continues. The regional cultural authority in Piura is technically assisting in the creation of the dossier. For this purpose, audiovisual recordings and statements from tradition bearers have been collected, among other things.
Significance for Northern Peru
The Festividad combines faith, community, music, and regional equestrian traditions. For visitors, it offers an authentic insight into the cultural life of the province of Paita and is also an interesting event topic for trips to Northern Peru in July.
Sources: El Regional Piura; Diario Correo; Reporteros 365.
Status: July 13, 2026
