Third Festival of Folk Music & Dances in La Paz, Bolivia

Folkloric Dances And Music in La Paz, Bolivia

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What I loved most about traveling in Bolivia, was having the opportunity to experience the local culture from up close. More than in any other country I visited in South America, the indigenous culture of Bolivia is very much alive and kicking. Anywhere I looked, in big cities and small towns, there were people proudly showing their indigenous roots.

Third Festival of Folk Music & Dances in La Paz, Bolivia

One of the most memorable displays of Bolivian culture, came randomly to me when I was in La Paz. One morning, I step out of the hostel where I was staying and I was greeted by this amazing festival of folkloric dances and music. It was totally unexpected; and I was thrilled to be there at the right time to experience it. 

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Third Festival of Folk Music & Dances in La Paz, Bolivia
Third Festival of Folk Music & Dances in La Paz, Bolivia

The festival was taking place on a big stretch of one of the main avenues of La Paz. There was only partial access for cars and there was a lot of people watching from the sidewalks. Security at most points was quite relaxed so I was able to get very close to the dancers and musicians to take photos. I loved it!

The groups that take part in this parade come from towns all over the La Paz department. They come to the capital to showcase their traditional music and dances. It makes for a colourful and cheerful cultural display. If you find yourself in La Paz in July, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to check it out!

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Third Festival of Folk Music & Dances in La Paz, Bolivia
Third Festival of Folk Music & Dances in La Paz, Bolivia

To see more photos from this festival, check out my gallery.

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960 638 Bianca Bauza

Bianca Bauza

Bianca Bauza is a world citizen who spent almost four years traveling around South America and Europe. Her passions include photography, street art, outdoor sports, and cooking exotic dishes. She's now based in the Netherlands where she lives with her partner and young daughter. She still enjoys traveling, on her own or with her family, and is always looking for an opportunity to see new places.

All stories by : Bianca Bauza
6 Comments
  • Striking colors, texture and energy in these photos. Kudos!

    • Thanks for stopping by Maria! It was a really beautiful festival; lots of music and dancing are great for taking photos :)

  • These photos are so beautiful. I especially like the smiling dancer pic :)

    One of my favourite things about living in Bolivia was all the parades and festivals popping up all over the place. Many mornings I’d wake up to joyous music outside my window and kids waving banners down the street. So much colour and laughter, a really beautiful sight!

    • I totally agree with you, Brigid! I loved being surprised by all these seemingly random parades and festivals. The typical dances of Bolivia are so cheerful and colourful. My personal favourite is the Tinku dance. I loved it so much that now I’d like to learn it and dance in a parade sometime :D

  • I love folk dancing. When I was in Potosi, I was invited to join a local group to dance with them for two days staight at the Fiesta de Chutillos in Potosi.
    It was one of the best experiences I have ever had!

    • I can imagine, Dominik! And I can agree with you as well, the best way to enjoy one of these festival or parades is by taking part in them! When I was in Barranquilla, Colombia I dance in one of the carnival’s parade and it was also an unforgettable experience! One of the best I’ve had on my travels so far :)

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