YUNSA

FESTIVAL
The Yunsa Festival is a traditional festivity in
Peru, celebrated primarily in the regions of
the central highlands and the jungle,
although it can also be found in other areas
with local variations. This festival is especially
popular during Carnival time, usually in
February or March, and represents a blend
of indigenous and colonial traditions.
The central protagonist of
the festival is a tree,
known as "yunsa" in the
highlands and "umisha"
in the jungle. This tree is
cut down and transported
to the celebration site.

The tree is decorated with a variety of

gifts, ribbons, fruits, balloons, and other
colorful objects. These decorations
symbolize prosperity and the generosity
of nature.
The celebration includes music and
People gather around the tree and
traditional dances of the region. In dance in circles, forming groups that

the highlands, Andean folk music often wear traditional and sometimes
humorous costumes.
with instruments like the harp,
quena, and charango is common,
while in the jungle, traditional
drums and flutes are used.
When the tree finally falls,
participants rush to collect
the gifts that were hung on it.

One of the festival’s highlights is the

cutting of the tree. Participants take
turns striking the tree trunk with an axe.
This act is performed to the rhythm of
the music and amid general merriment.
 The person who delivers the final blow that
brings the tree down is named the "godfather"
or "godmother" of the next Yunsa. This person
is responsible for organizing the festivity the
following year, ensuring the tradition's
continuity.

Meaning and Origins:

Indigenous and Colonial Roots: The Yunsa has roots in both pre-Columbian
agricultural practices and the festivities brought by Spanish colonizers.
Originally, these celebrations were linked to fertility rituals and giving thanks
to the land for its bounty.
Symbolism of Prosperity: The tree and the gifts symbolize abundance and
renewal. The tree’s fall represents the cycle of life and regeneration.