I’ve been lucky enough to see Christmas markets all over the world, but there’s one experience that has firmly nudged its way to the top of my ultimate wish list: Santurantikuy in Cusco. There’s something magical about the idea of this one-day festival, a vibrant, thriving explosion of folk art and tradition that feels like the perfect antidote to the often-commercialized holiday season. I’m absolutely desperate to trade the mulled wine and gingerbread for a hot ponche in the high Andes.
What is Santurantikuy? The Magic I’m Craving
Santurantikuy, which translates from Quechua to “the Selling of Saints,” is a legendary event that completely takes over the main square on Christmas Eve. I can just imagine the stunning, colonial Plaza de Armas of Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m) transformed into a vast, sprawling open-air museum and market. From the early morning hours, hundreds of artisans from remote villages and the city itself descend on the square to sell everything one could possibly need to create a traditional Andean nativity scene, or nacimiento. It’s not just a market; it’s a centuries-old cultural institution, and I can’t wait to be a part of the buzz.
The Artisans: The True Stars of the Show
More Than Just Souvenirs
What truly calls my name about Santurantikuy is the authenticity of the art. This isn’t your typical tourist fare. I’m craving the chance to meet the artisans themselves, many of whom are from families that have passed down their unique skills for generations. These aren’t just objects; they are stories, crafted with incredible care and imbued with a deep sense of cultural pride. I’d plan to spend the entire day wandering, getting my artisan fix, and hearing the stories behind the work.
My Artisan Hit List
When I finally go, I won’t just be Browse. I’ll be on a mission.
- Finding the Perfect Niño Manuelito: The centerpiece of any nacimiento is the Niño Manuelito, the Andean image of the baby Jesus. I love that they aren’t uniform. I’ve read about the different styles: some are joyful and playful, others have a tear on their cheek or a thorn in their finger, symbolizing future suffering. I want to find the one that speaks to me, a beautiful, tangible piece of faith and art.
- The Iconic Mendivil Style: There are certain artists who are legendary at Santurantikuy, and I’m dying to see their work up close. The Mendivil family is at the top of my list. Their religious figures are famous for their impossibly long, elegant necks and serene, ethereal expressions. Finding a piece from their workshop would be the ultimate prize.
- Building a Uniquely Andean Scene: Beyond the Christ child, I’d be on the hunt for all the other charming figures to create a truly unique scene. I imagine finding tiny, handcrafted cholitas in vibrant skirts leading a llama, a baker pulling bread from an oven, and musicians playing Andean instruments. It’s the ultimate way to zhuzh up a traditional nativity.
The Experience: What I Imagine the Day Will Feel Like
I can already picture it. I’d arrive early, wrapped up against the crisp mountain air, a hot drink in hand, watching the vibrant patchwork of stalls come to life under the bright Andean sun. The sensory experience must be incredible—the blazing colors of the hand-woven textiles, the earthy smell of the ceramics, and the fragrant steam of hot ponche being sold on every corner.
I’d spend hours weaving through the crowds, a wonderful mix of local families on their annual shopping trip and a few lucky travelers. The goal would be to connect with the artists, to carefully choose each piece of my nativity, and to leave with treasures that will forever remind me of a Christmas spent in the heart of the Andes.
Beyond the Market: Soaking in the Christmas Vibe
The Santurantikuy experience wouldn’t end when the market closes. I’d love to spend the evening walking through the city, peering into the open doors of churches like the stunning Cusco Cathedral or the charming San Blas Church. Inside, they display their own elaborate and beautiful nacimientos, which serve as inspiration for the thousands of smaller scenes being built in homes all over the city. It’s an all-out trip into the festive spirit of Peru.
Why This is My Ultimate Christmas Wish
For me, Santurantikuy represents a perfect and authentic travel experience. It’s a magical blend of sacred tradition, incredible living artistry, and a vibrant, joyful atmosphere. It’s about connecting with a culture and its people through the things they create with their hands. Let’s not talk about the fact that I haven’t been yet; this legendary market is firmly, top top top on my hit list. It’s an itch I’m desperate to scratch.