ICTYS invites you to rediscover Christmas through folk art with exhibitions in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa
This year, the Instituto Cultural Teatral y Social – ICTYS invites us to be part of a journey through folk art that celebrates the Christmas spirit and the cultural richness of Peru. These exhibitions are not just cultural events; they are an invitation to reconnect with the true meaning of Christmas through the beauty of folk art.
Image of the banner of the 20th anniversary of the National Nativity Contest.
In Lima: XX National Nativity Scene Contest “Christmas is Jesus”
In the heart of the city, Casa O’Higgins (Jirón de la Unión 554) opened its doors on Wednesday, November 20th, marking the start of the 20th Edition of the National Nativity Scene Contest “Christmas is Jesus.”
Over 50 nativity scenes, coming from various regions of the country, tell the story of Christmas through the creativity of hands that transform materials into beautiful works of art.
The exhibition will be open until January 5th, 2025. Walking among these nativity scenes is not just about observing art; it is about listening to how each piece whispers stories of communities, families, and traditions that come to life with every detail.
Visiting hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Saturdays and Sundays: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Free entry on holidays, S/1 entry on weekends).
In Lurín: A Child Named Jesus
On Saturday, November 23th, at Camposanto Parque del Recuerdo (Km 25.5 Antigua Panamericana Sur, Lurín), the folk art of Marianela Cuycaposa and Alberto Flores offers us an intimate glimpse into “A Child Called Jesus: “The Most Beautiful Story of Humanity”, an exhibition that will be available until February 2st, 2025.
Visiting hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Free admission).
In Cusco: Christmas Turned Tradition
In the imperial city, the Our Lady in Loreto Chapel (Loreto 111) will host “Christmas and Traditional Art: The Wonderful Hands of Peruvian Craftsmanship.” Starting Tuesday, November 26th, this exhibition showcases the work of artisans who transform Christmas tradition into unique pieces.
Strolling through this exhibit is an invitation to connect with the spirituality and talent that make our culture extraordinary.
Visiting hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9:00 – 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. (Free admission).
In Arequipa: Peruvian Identity in Every Nativity Scene
Finally, on Friday, November 29th, the Santa Catalina Monastery (Calle Ugarte 300) will open its cloisters for the “Exhibition of Winning Nativity Scenes: Christmas, Peruvian Identity, and Folk Art,” showcasing the winning pieces from the national competition “Christmas Is Jesus.” Each piece reflects the soul of artisans who find endless inspiration in Christmas.
Visiting hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Free admission).