National Alpaca Day celebration

On the 1st of August, Peru and here especially the southern highland regions of the country celebrate National Alpaca Day focusing on the small, fluffy camelid, honoring the challenging work of generations of Alpaca breeders and promoting the consumption and usage of Alpaca products.

Like Machu Picchu, Ceviche and Pisco, Alpacas are typical Peruvian and a source of national pride. The South American camelids were domesticated in the Andean highlands thousands of years ago and already then specifically bred for their meat and soft and warm fiber.

Celebrations are most enthusiastic in the city of Puno and in Macusani, a small town located about 250 km (155 miles) north of Puno which is known as the “Alpaca capital of Peru”.

The festivities include Alpaca parades and competitions, traditional music, dances and rituals, exhibitions, wool spinning competitions, traditional food and drinks and often ceremonies in honor of Pachamama – the 1st of August as well is Pachamama or Mother Earth Day in Peru.