Everything you should know before travelling with Sakura

What is Santurantikuy?

Santurantikuy — a Quechua word meaning "sale of saints" — began as a place where local people could buy religious figures to decorate their nativity scenes at Christmas. Over time the tradition grew into the most important craft fair of December in the Cusco region. The fair brings together more than 100 artisans from across the provinces, and at its heart stands the Niño Manuelito, the central figure of the Andean Christmas.

History of Santurantikuy

Santurantikuy dates back to the 17th century, in colonial times. Church authorities then encouraged families to build nativity scenes at home to strengthen the faith across the region. Cusco families would come to the main square to buy images of the Christ Child, of saints and angels, and decorative pieces for their Christmas altars.

What will you find at Santurantikuy?

Because it brings together so many different artists, the fair offers a wide variety of work:

The Niño Manuelito (the Christ Child)

Traditional clothing for the Niño Manuelito

Andean nativity scenes dressed in the traditional costumes of the different provinces of Cusco

Fine pieces in ceramic, wood, textile and silver

Andean animals such as llamas, alpacas and vicuñas within the nativity scenes

Shepherds in traditional dress, showing the cultural syncretism of the region

Little houses built in the highland style, inspired by the landscapes of rural Cusco

Santurantikuy today

Today Santurantikuy keeps the essence of the old fair but with a far more lively and varied atmosphere. It preserves its religious meaning while also being a place where folk art, tradition and Andean identity stay alive.

Tips for enjoying Santurantikuy

Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Bring cash in soles; many artisans do not accept dollars or cards.

Dress in layers: December brings sun, rain and cold nights all at once.

Keep your belongings safe and your valuables in sight.

Respect religious spaces when taking photographs.

Why include Santurantikuy in your itinerary?

Visiting Santurantikuy is not simply seeing a fair — it is taking part in a living tradition. It is a cultural meeting point where history, art, food and spirituality converge. Every 24 December the city revives a celebration that connects its colonial past, Andean culture and the Christmas spirit in one place.

Frequently asked questions

Santurantikuy takes place on 23 and 24 December, from dawn until close to midnight.

The fair is held in the Plaza de Armas of Cusco. You can walk there from almost anywhere in the historic centre, or take a licensed taxi if you are further away.

You will find ceramics, retablos, traditional nativity scenes, wood carvings, sculptures of the Niño Manuelito, silverwork, textiles, decorative candles and unique pieces made by Cusco artisans.

Yes, it is a safe event, though you should watch your belongings given how many people attend.

The early morning hours are ideal for walking the fair in peace and finding the best pieces.

Yes, photography is allowed at the stalls and around the fair, but it is always good to ask the artisans for permission before photographing their work close up.

Most stalls accept only cash in soles.

Yes — it is the best time of year to buy original, high-quality crafts, since the region's finest artisans display their pieces directly.

Yes, but it is best to go early to avoid the busiest hours. Bring water, snacks and warm clothing.

Yes, you will find licensed taxis near the Plaza de Armas.

You can also visit craft markets, nearby museums and colonial churches, or enjoy a hot chocolate in the cafés around the square.