The feast of Saints Peter and Paul is one of those celebrations that does not require significant promotion to be noticed. In the coastal towns of Peru, especially in places where the sea is part of daily life, this date is experienced with unique intensity. It is not only a religious tradition; it is the day when communities pause to pay homage to whom they consider their protector: Saint Peter, patron saint of fishermen.
This is no coincidence: in these places, where the sea feeds, unites, and even protects, Saint Peter represents more than a sacred figure. He is a symbol of faith, work, and hope. In this blog, we take you to the places where this tradition is most strongly felt, so you can discover an authentic, vibrant, and deeply human side of Peru.
What is the feast day of saints peter and paul?
The Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul is a religious celebration that takes place every June 29 in honor of two of the most important figures of Christianity, they are St. Peter, considered the first Pope and symbol of the Church founded by Jesus, and St. Paul, the great missionary who took the Christian message beyond the Jewish world. Although the date has deeply Catholic roots, in countries such as Peru this festivity has taken on a character of its own, blending faith with local identity.
In many coastal cities, especially in fishing communities, St. Peter is venerated as the patron saint of the sea, and his image is carried in procession by land and water, amidst music, dances, typical food and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
When is the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul?
This year 2025, the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul will be celebrated on Sunday, June 29, a fixed date in the religious calendar that every year gathers thousands of faithful in different regions of Peru. Although the central day is the 29th, in many coastal cities such as Chimbote, Callao or Paita, the activities begin one or two days before and can extend even later, especially when it falls on a weekend, as this year. During those days there are not only masses and processions, but also popular festivals, cultural events, gastronomic fairs and celebrations that mix the religious with the traditional.
Where is the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul celebrated in Peru?
In Peru, the Festivity of St. Peter and St. Paul is strongly celebrated in various regions, but it acquires a special character in coastal cities and fishing communities, where St. Peter is venerated as the patron saint of fishermen. One of the most emblematic places is Chimbote, in Ancash, where the celebration includes an impressive maritime procession that mobilizes the entire city.
In Callao, especially in areas such as La Punta and Bellavista, it is also celebrated with great devotion, with solemn masses, decorated boats and popular fairs. In Paita, in the north of the country, the festivity combines the religious with the festive in an atmosphere full of color, music and seafaring tradition.
And although Lima is not far behind, districts like Chorrillos stand out for their processions by sea and land that bring together fishermen and neighbors in a very close atmosphere. Even in Cusco, despite not having a coastline, some parishes like San Pedro keep this tradition alive, adapting it to the Andean context with elements of their local culture.
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What does this day represent in Peru?
In Peru, the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul represents much more than a religious commemoration; it is a date that unites faith, local identity and tradition. For Catholic believers, June 29 celebrates the life and legacy of St. Peter, the first Pope and symbol of the unity of the Church, and St. Paul, the great preacher and defender of Christianity. But in the Peruvian context, especially in coastal communities, this day has an even deeper meaning: St. Peter is considered the protector of fishermen, and his figure is closely linked to life at sea.
For this reason, this date is also a way of giving thanks for the work, asking for protection in the tasks and paying homage to those who make their living from fishing. Maritime processions, mass masses and popular festivities reflect this spiritual link between the people, the sea and tradition. In short, it is a day that celebrates faith, but also the work, culture and living history of many Peruvian communities.
History of the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul
The Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul has roots that go back to the early years of Christianity. Both apostles were key figures: Peter, the first Pope; Paul, the great preacher. According to tradition, they were martyred in Rome on the same day, and since then June 29 has been marked as a sacred date.
But the interesting thing comes when this celebration arrives in Peru. Here, not only the religious sense is maintained, but it is mixed with local identity: San Pedro becomes the protector of the sea and fishermen, giving rise to colorful processions by water, masses in front of the port and fairs in cities like Chimbote, Paita or Callao. And beware, in Pacora (Lambayeque), it has been celebrated since 1548, being one of the oldest in all of Latin America. More than a tradition, it is a living celebration that navigates between faith and culture.
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The most important places during the celebration
Located in the Lambayeque region, in northern Peru, Pacora is a small district but one with enormous cultural wealth. Despite its size, it has preserved one of the oldest religious traditions on the continent: the festival in honor of Saint Paul, which has been celebrated continuously since 1548. Yes, you read that right. In Pacora, a small district in Lambayeque, the celebration of Saint Paul has been taking place since 1548 — making it one of the oldest religious festivities in all of Latin America. We are talking about more than 470 years of history, faith, and tradition that are renewed every June with processions, masses, dances, and deep community participation.
And when it comes to devotion that brings everything to a standstill, Chimbote takes center stage with its famous San Pedrito. In this coastal city, the festival is not just a religious event: it is part of the collective identity. On June 29, schools close, markets are decorated, and entire neighborhoods accompany the image of the saint in an emotional maritime procession. Boats are decorated as if they were part of a sea carnival, and the sound of bands and sirens fills the bay. It is a moment that unites the entire city around a figure that symbolizes protection, work, and community.
Feast day of st Peter and Paul in Lima
Although many times this festivity is associated with the great northern ports, Lima also lives intensely the feast of saints Peter and Paul, especially in districts with coastal and religious tradition. If you are in the capital on these dates, there is plenty to see, feel and enjoy.
Where is the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul celebrated in Lima?
One of the most representative places is the district of Chorrillos, where the image of St. Peter, patron saint of fishermen, is carried in procession by land and then embarked to travel the sea. It is an emotional ceremony that mixes faith and marine tradition.
In Callao, particularly in areas such as La Punta and Bellavista, there is also a maritime procession with dozens of decorated boats that accompany the saint across the bay. In addition, in many churches in the historic center, such as the Cathedral of Lima or the San Pedro Parish, solemn masses are celebrated with large crowds.
What to do in Lima during the celebration?
To experience the fishermen’s sandos celebration, we recommend the Lima tours that take you to the main areas where they take place. In addition to attending the processions and masses, there are several cultural and traditional activities that you can enjoy if you visit Lima on these dates:
- Watch the maritime procession in Chorrillos or La Punta, ideal for taking unique photos and experiencing the fervor of the people from the shore.
- Taste fresh seafood dishes in local restaurants or gastronomic fairs that are usually set up near the pier, such as ceviches, sudados and rice with seafood.
- Participate in popular fairs or festivals, where typical dances, live bands and cooking or fishing contests are presented.
- Visit the churches in downtown Lima, which are filled with flowers and the faithful during this date, with a very special atmosphere.
- Stroll along the Miraflores or Barranco boardwalk at sunset after the liturgical acts, as many families take the opportunity to make this date a special outing.
Local advice
If you’re going to see the maritime procession, arrive early. The dock area fills up fast and it is common for neighbors to come out early with chairs, cameras and food to experience the festival as a special day in community.
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Feast of Saints Peter and Paul in Piura
In northern Peru, this celebration does not go unnoticed. On the contrary, it is lived with strength, identity and a very particular energy. And if there is a place where this celebration is felt in every corner, it is Paita, one of the most important ports in the region of Piura. Here, faith does not stay in the church: it goes out to the streets, gets on boats and becomes a true popular festival.
Where is the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul celebrated in Piura?
The most emblematic celebration takes place in Paita, where Saint Peter is considered the patron saint of fishermen and the most beloved figure of the port. During the festivity, a terrestrial and maritime procession takes place that summons the entire community, including fishermen, entire families and visitors coming from other provinces.
In the district of Yacila, also belonging to Paita, the festivity has a more intimate but equally profound air. There, tradition blends with the daily life of a fishing village that keeps its heritage alive.
What to do in Piura during the celebration?
If you find yourself in Piura around this time, or are looking for a perfect excuse to escape to the north, here are some activities not to be missed:
- See the maritime procession of San Pedro in Paita, one of the most impressive in the country. Dozens of boats accompany the image of the saint at sea, in an emotional and devotional procession.
- Taste the northern food at its best: ceviches with a taste of home, sudado de pescado, majado de yuca, freshly made chifles and cold chicha de jora for the heat.
- Visit the fairs and cultural events, where there is live music, traditional dances, fishing contests, popular games and activities for the whole family.
- Enjoy the beaches of Colán or Yacila, which on these dates are full of life, color and festivities.
- Attend masses and religious activities, especially in the Matriz Church of Paita, where they are prepared days before with novenas, rosaries and floral decorations.
Local council
In Paita, June 29 is not just a celebration: it is almost a second patron saint’s day. If you want to experience it like a local, get up early, chat with the locals, and don’t miss the moment when the image of San Pedro touches the sea. It is a powerful moment, full of emotion.
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Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul in Chimbote
If there is a place in Peru where the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul is lived with unique intensity, it is Chimbote. This coastal city, one of the largest and most representative of the Norte Chico, not only commemorates the date: it celebrates it with its soul. Here, the figure of San Pedro, patron saint of fishermen, is not only a religious symbol, but a real protector, deeply linked to the identity of the whole city.
Where is the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul celebrated in Chimbote?
The center of the celebration is located in the Port of Chimbote, around the San Pedro Cathedral and the Malecon area. From days before June 29th, the city is filled with religious, cultural and festive activities. But the most awaited act occurs on the central day itself, when the image of San Pedrito, as he is affectionately called, is carried in a maritime procession along the bay.
This procession is not just any walk: decorated boats, entire families on the dock, sailors throwing flowers into the water and bands accompanying from land create an atmosphere that excites even non-believers.
What to do in Chimbote during the celebration?
To visit Chimbote on this date is to immerse yourself in a profound cultural and spiritual experience. Here are some ideas of what you can do:
- Experience the maritime procession of San Pedrito, the heart of the festivity. Aboard boats or from the boardwalk, it is a spectacle of faith that moves the whole city.
- Taste the typical dishes of Chimborazo, such as sudado de pescado, ceviche chimbotano and the famous pan de piso. During the festival, there are gastronomic fairs throughout the city.
- Attend the solemn mass at the San Pedro Cathedral, where local and visiting faithful gather in an atmosphere of recollection and celebration.
- Enjoy free concerts and cultural activities, organized by the municipality and local groups, with Creole music, dances and fireworks.
- Tour the boardwalk and the fishing market, where you can breathe the daily life of the fishermen who every year entrust themselves to their patron saint.
Local tip
Arrive early on the 29th if you want a good spot on the pier. Bring a hat, sunscreen and camera ready. Watching the image of San Pedrito set sail, amidst applause and tears, is a moment that many Chimbotanos look forward to all year long.
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Feast of Saints Peter and Paul in Cusco
In Cusco, where every religious celebration is intertwined with centuries of Andean history and spirituality, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul takes on a different tone, more sober but deeply symbolic. Here, devotion is not expressed through maritime processions, but through deeply rooted customs that combine Catholicism brought by the Spanish with ancestral respect for the cycles of nature and the community.
Where is the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul celebrated in Cusco?
The main celebration takes place in the Church of San Pedro, located opposite the market of the same name, in the heart of Cusco’s historic center. There, a solemn mass and a procession through the cobbled streets are organized, where the image of the apostle is accompanied by the faithful, religious authorities, and Cusco bands.
In addition, other rural parishes also celebrate this day with their own activities, especially those where Saint Peter is the local patron saint. In these cases, the celebration may include traditional dances, typical foods, and community gatherings with a strong Andean identity. Also, if you visit Cusco, you can’t miss doing the famous short Inca trail after your trekking tour.
What to do in Cusco during the celebration?
- Although the festival is not as massive as other Cusco celebrations, it is still an excellent opportunity to experience the most authentic side of local religiosity. Here are some ideas:
- Attend Mass and the procession at the Church of San Pedro, a temple with a lot of history and tradition within the city.
- Visit the San Pedro Market, which is usually more lively at this time of year, ideal for trying Andean fruits, Cusco breads, and natural juices.
- Observe the syncretic customs, where Catholic saints are venerated with elements reminiscent of ancient Andean practices, such as floral offerings, music with traditional instruments, and community participation.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic center, taking in the festive and contemplative atmosphere, which feels different from other more touristy dates.
Local tip
Ask at your accommodation if there will be any patron saint festivals nearby in surrounding communities. During the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, many travelers take advantage of their time in Peru to connect with other traditions, such as the inca trail 4 days a route that also honors the past and the connection to the land. These celebrations are often not listed on tourist maps, but they allow you to experience Andean devotion and the warmth of its people up close.
Frequently asked questions about the feast of saints Peter and Paul
Celebrated every June 29th, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul is one of those dates that blends faith, tradition, and community spirit — especially in coastal and fishing towns across Peru. If you’ve never experienced it or are planning a trip around that time, here are some of the most common questions travelers and curious visitors tend to ask:
When is the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul celebrated?
It’s celebrated every 29th of June, no matter the day of the week. It’s a fixed date in the Catholic calendar and honors the martyrdom of both apostles in Rome. In Peru, it often includes processions, maritime parades, and public celebrations, especially in fishing communities.
Why are Saint Peter and Saint Paul celebrated together?
Although they had different missions, both were central to the growth of the early Church. Saint Peter is considered the first Pope, while Saint Paul was the great missionary and writer. According to tradition, both were martyred on the same day, which is why they share this feast.
How is this day celebrated in Peru?
It depends on the region. In coastal cities like Chimbote, Callao, and Paita, the image of Saint Peter is taken out in a maritime procession, often followed by music, food festivals, and blessings of fishing boats. Inland cities like Cusco also commemorate the day with mass and community gatherings, though in a more spiritual, Andean way.
Is it a public holiday in Peru?
Yes, June 29th is a public holiday in Peru. While it’s not as widely celebrated as other national festivities, in places where Saint Peter is the patron, it becomes a major event that includes days of preparation and public participation.
Can tourists attend the celebrations?
Absolutely! In fact, many travelers say it’s one of the most heartfelt and authentic experiences they’ve had in Peru. Just be respectful of local customs, arrive early for processions, and don’t forget your camera — the colors, music, and community energy are unforgettable.
The celebration of faith in the Peruvian sea
The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul does not always appear on tourist itineraries, but those who have traveled to participate in the celebration often take away one of the most cherished memories of their trip. If you are lucky enough to be in Peru around that time, let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of the drums, the smell of the sea, and the warmth of a tradition that, beyond religion, speaks of community, pride, and joy. So if you are planning to travel to Peru in June, the Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul could be a unique opportunity to experience something different. Do you know where you will be on June 29?
