The National Mall is vibrant with American politics, history, and spirit. Now, it’s bursting with Peruvian pride as part of the annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival.
The event, which kicked off Wednesday, celebrates traditional Peruvian culture with a lineup as diverse as the country itself. Throughout the eight-day festival, visitors of all backgrounds can immerse themselves in every aspect of Peru’s lively culture.
The festival will serve up traditional Peruvian eats from pork stew and potatoes in cream sauce, to more exotic fare like stingray jerky and Andean rodent, prepared by both native cooks and D.C. chefs in live demonstrations.
For those seeking fun and festive entertainment, a number of dance troupes and musical performers will showcase their roots through song and dance, representing an array of regions. Notable dances scheduled during the festival are the Masquerade, which celebrates la Mamacha Carmen, the patron saint of Paucartambo, and the country’s national dance, the Spanish-and-African-infused Marinera.
Hand-crafted Peruvian artwork and objects will also be displayed, including carved gourds, reed rafts, textiles, masks, jewelry, painted wood crafts, ceramics, and woven goods. The various crafts represent 4 distinct regions of Peru.
The festival is held now through June 28, as well as July 1-5, between Third and Fourth streets on the National Mall. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday, with evening concerts taking place at 7 p.m. June 25, 26 and 27, as well as July 2 and 3.
