Andean Amazonian Chaqueño New Year in Bolivia
Bolivia marks Andean Amazonian Chaqueño New Year each June 21, recognizing Indigenous peoples’ traditions, worldviews and ancestral knowledge. It is also a national public holiday, with ceremonies held at sacred sites in different parts of the country.[1][2]
A Bolivian holiday with legal recognition
Bolivia’s Law 1128 names June 21 the Andean Amazonian Chaqueño New Year and describes it as an expression of the traditions, worldviews and ancestral knowledge of the country’s Indigenous Native Peasant Nations and Peoples. The law says ceremonies and rituals are to take place at sacred sites in keeping with each people’s worldview, and assigns the national and local authorities a role in promoting the celebration.[1]
The date also appears in Bolivia’s national-holiday framework as a day when public and private activities are suspended. June 21 is the holiday’s statutory date; when it falls on a Sunday, a separate government decree or official calendar may specify a change to the day off. Check current notices for the applicable arrangement.[2][3]
Different meanings across Bolivia
The holiday brings together distinct Indigenous traditions under a national name. Government reporting describes the winter solstice as Willka Kuti in Aymara culture, Inti Raymi in Quechua culture and Lucero del Alba among lowland cultures. Reporting on Chaco communities also describes the celebration there in relation to receiving the morning star. These names and meanings reflect regional differences rather than a single uniform observance.[1][4]
The Andean Amazonian Chaqueño New Year is associated with the solstice and a new agricultural cycle. Bolivia’s law centres the day on Indigenous knowledge and ritual practice.[1][4]
Ceremonies and practical planning
Observances take place at sacred places, including archaeological sites and local ceremonial locations. A national government report describes ceremonies of thanks to Pachamama and the sun, welcoming the first rays of sunlight, and gatherings that may include dance, music and local food. Organizers vary: municipal or departmental governments, neighborhood groups and communities may arrange events, and practices differ by place.[1][4]
Government offices and workplaces close under the nationwide suspension of public and private activities. Banks, shops, attractions and transport services set their own hours, so confirm directly with the service or venue and check local event information before travelling to a ceremonial site.[2][3]
Frequently asked questions
When is Andean Amazonian Chaqueño New Year?
Is it a public holiday throughout Bolivia?
Yes. Bolivia’s national-holiday framework designates it as a holiday with suspension of public and private activities across the country.[2]
What happens during the celebration?
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Banks, shops and transport operators set their own hours, so check with each provider before making plans.
Sources and references
Sources used for Andean Amazonian Chaqueño New Year in Bolivia:
- Culturas: Año Nuevo Andino Amazónico y del Chaco convoca a la unidad entre los bolivianos- Agencia Boliviana de Información
- DECRETO SUPREMO N° 2750- Aduana Nacional, reproducing the Gaceta Oficial del Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia
- EL GOBIERNO NACIONAL PRESENTA UNA NUEVA AGENDA DE FERIADOS- Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Previsión Social
- Año Nuevo Andino Amazónico y Chaqueño 5.534 se celebrará en 68 sitios sagrados del país pese a los bloqueos- Agencia Boliviana de Información