Newdecmoi · CC BY-SA 3.0Guairá Carnival
Dance troupes, carnival royalty and drum bands in the Villarrica sambadrome, one of the most traditional carnivals outside the capital.
What it is
Villarrica, the cultured capital of Guairá, spends February dancing to the rhythm of carnival. Comparsas (carnival troupes) such as Overa, Emperador, Fussion Dance and Retro parade with glittering costumes and batucada drummers through the Rey Eduardo Vezzetti Sambadrome over four nights, with the crowning of the carnival queen and king as the highlight. Between parades, the city invites you to hike up the Ybytyruzú hills, ride a karumbé (a traditional horse-drawn tram) or cool off at the waterfalls of Independencia.
What to see and do
- Comparsa parade in the sambadrome
- Crowning of the carnival queen and king
- Guairá’s waterfalls and hills by day
Tips
In 2026 tickets ranged from ₲10,000 (general) to ₲120,000 (preferred seating) depending on the night. The final night is the busiest and most expensive.
Dates may shift to the nearest weekend.
What to see
Villarrica · Guairá
Villarrica del Espíritu Santo
The 'wandering city' that moved seven times: capital of Guairá, cradle of poets and home of the Guairá Carnival.
Festivals and events here
Guairá Rally (Codasur round)
The South American rally championship comes to the roads of Guairá, based in Villarrica, with stages among hills and farming colonies.
SportVillarrica, GuairáSepVillarrica Flower Parade
Themed floats from schools and youth groups roll through downtown Villarrica to welcome spring.
FestivalVillarrica, GuairáOctFestival de la Raza
One of the oldest folk festivals outside the capital, with artists from Guairá and a “Giant Night.”
MusicVillarrica, Guairá16MayEspíritu Santo · Villarrica
Procession around the cathedral, fireworks and a folk festival with jineteada (bronc riding) and a food fair.
Patron saintVillarrica, GuairáFeaturedResearched and reviewed in September 2026 with 2 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.