The Yamor Festival (Corn Festival)

Held in the city of Otavalo, the Yamor Festival sees the cultural convergence of people from the Imbabura region, becoming a famous traditional festival in Ecuador. They gather to celebrate and pray to the Virgin Mary of Monserrat and the native goddess Pachamama for the fertility of the soil and bountiful crops. Locals wear traditional costumes and organize lively dance performances, processions, and food fairs that mainly sell traditional food and drinks. Don't forget to try the traditional chicha de yamor (fermented corn drink). Chariot racing, cockfighting, bullfighting, and lake swimming are some of the other highlights of this cultural event in Ecuador. Come to Otavalo during the first two weeks of September to experience the best of religion and culture coming together.

Yamor Festival is a celebration of the multicultural peoples of Otavalo. It blends the celebration of Koya Raymi (rites of the moon and sun as elements of fertility) with Catholic tradition. The word “Yamor” refers to a traditional beverage, brewed with seven varieties of corn and unique to the region. The indigenous groups Kichwa Cayambi and Kichwa Otavalo celebrate the Andean agricultural cycle, paying particular attention to maize, which is considered a symbol of fertility.

• Organization time: September every year
• Location: Otavalo, Ecuador