Carnaval 2026 in Cuenca: Parades, Free Mote Pata, a Guinness Record, and Everything Else Happening Feb 12–17

Carnaval is almost here, and Cuenca is going all out. The municipality announced a full week of events running February 12 through 17, with something for every taste—from traditional food and parades to stadium concerts and a world record attempt.

Here's the complete rundown.

Thursday, February 12 — Jueves de Compadres

Carnaval week opens with the traditional Jueves de Compadres (Thursday of Comrades) celebration.

• Time: 7:00 PM
• Location: Parque de la Libertad
• What: Live music performances for what organizers expect will be thousands of attendees

This is the unofficial start of Carnaval season in Cuenca—an evening of music, food vendors, and the unmistakable energy of a city ready to party.

Friday, February 13 — Color Fest

• Location: Estadio Alejandro Serrano Aguilar
• What: A color-powder festival aimed at Cuenca's younger crowd

Expect clouds of colored powder, DJs, and a stadium full of people who will need a very long shower afterward.

Saturday, February 14 — The Big Day

This is the heart of Carnaval in Cuenca, with three major events packed into one day.

Desfile de los Cuatro Ríos (Four Rivers Parade)

• Time: 9:00 AM
• Location: Calle Bolívar, Historic Center
• What: Cuenca's signature Carnaval parade featuring elaborate floats, costumed comparsas, dance troupes, and marching bands winding through the colonial streets

Tip: Arrive early to stake out a spot along Bolívar. The parade draws huge crowds and the best viewing positions go fast.

World's Largest Mote Pata — Guinness Record Attempt

• Time: Noon
• Location: Plaza de San Francisco
• What: Cuenca will attempt to certify the world's largest batch of mote pata—the rich, hearty pork-and-hominy soup that's a Carnaval staple. Representatives from Guinness World Records will be present. Approximately 9,000 plates will be served free to the public.

Mote pata is to Cuenca's Carnaval what turkey is to American Thanksgiving. If you haven't tried it yet, this is your chance—and it's free.

International Concert

• Time: Evening (exact time TBA)
• Location: Estadio Alejandro Serrano Aguilar
• What: A headline concert featuring international artists. The full lineup was announced February 3 at the Mercado 10 de Agosto.

Sunday, February 15 – Monday, February 16 – Tuesday, February 17

The official feriado (public holiday) runs Monday the 16th and Tuesday the 17th, giving everyone a four-day weekend from Saturday through Tuesday. Expect continued celebrations, neighborhood parties, and—yes—water.

The Water Situation

Let's address the elephant in the room: you will get wet.

Cuenca's Carnaval tradition involves water—buckets of it, balloons full of it, hoses spraying it. While the city center events are more structured, walking through residential neighborhoods during Carnaval weekend means accepting that someone—probably a gleeful child on a rooftop—will dump water on you.

Survival tips:

• Leave your phone in a waterproof bag or at home
• Don't wear anything you care about
• Embrace it—getting annoyed about the water is a losing battle
• If you truly want to stay dry, stay indoors during peak afternoon hours

Practical Info

• Banks and government offices will be closed Monday and Tuesday
• Supermarkets typically close early or entirely on Monday/Tuesday
• Restaurants in the center will be packed—make reservations if possible
• Bus schedules may be reduced during the feriado
• Stock up on groceries by Friday if you want to avoid the rush

Chiva Market Tour

Throughout the week, a traditional chiva (colorful open-air bus) will run tours through Cuenca's markets, showcasing local food and commerce. Check the municipal tourism office for the schedule.

Getting Out of Town?

If Carnaval isn't your thing, many expats use the long weekend for a trip. Popular escapes include Vilcabamba, the coast, or simply retreating to a quieter parish. Book transportation early—buses and flights fill up fast during the feriado.

Source: El Mercurio, Municipio de Cuenca