Pawkar Raymi, or the Festival of Flowering, is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich festivals you can experience in Otavalo, Ecuador. Rooted in Kichwa traditions, this 11-day celebration (from February to early March) is all about honoring Pacha Mama (Mother Earth) for her generosity and welcoming new beginnings. It’s a colorful mix of craft fairs, sports competitions, music, and deep-rooted rituals.
What Is Pawkar Raymi All About?
The name Pawkar Raymi translates to the Festival of Flowering, symbolizing the blooming of crops and the renewal of life. This celebration is especially meaningful for indigenous communities who take the time to thank Pacha Mama for her bounty. It’s also a cherished occasion for indigenous merchants and musicians living abroad to return home, reconnecting with their roots and families.
With an estimated 10,000 Otavaleños working as cultural ambassadors worldwide, this time of year is all about community and tradition. And the best part? They often stay for up to two months, immersing themselves fully in the rituals and celebrations.
The Rituals of Pawkar Raymi
The rituals of Pawkar Raymi aren’t just ceremonial—they’re deeply spiritual experiences. One of the most significant is tumariña, a ritual baptism involving water and flower petals, symbolizing purification and renewal.
In Tungurahua Province, celebrations kick off at dawn with the Path of Purification—a barefoot pilgrimage over rough terrain to the waters of Manzanapamba. The pain endured along the way is believed to demonstrate a direct connection with Pacha Mama.
As participants reach the water, the chanting and singing in Kichwa grow louder. Women lead the procession, adorned in vibrant red garments representing fertility, joy, and prosperity. After prayers, they place crowns in the cool waters, believing the earth’s energies cleanse them of impurities and renew their spirits.
For single women, it’s also said to be a blessing of fertility—Pacha Mama granting them the ability to give life.
The Taste of Pawkar Raymi: Jucho
No celebration is complete without food and drink. During Pawkar Raymi, jucho is a staple—a sweet, aromatic fruit drink enjoyed by both indigenous communities and mestizos as a symbol of Carnival.
Made from capulí cherries cooked with peaches in syrup, thickened with corn starch and cassava, it’s served hot or cold. In the Central Sierra, where capulí trees grow wild, this drink is especially popular. According to Yachaks (shamans), capulí cherries represent fertility, making jucho an essential part of the celebration.
Discover the Markets and Culture of Otavalo
Want to experience the vibrant colors, music, and traditions of Pawkar Raymi for yourself? Our Indigenous Markets and Culture Tour takes you right into the heart of Otavalo’s legendary market scene, one of the largest and most important in all of Latin America.
Contact our travel advisors to plan your adventure!
