Ecuador Events and Festivals

12/01/2008 - 12/31/2008Dia de Quito

Quito was a city long before the arrival of the Conquistadores. Nevertheless it was the re-founding of the city by Spanish General Benalcazar on 6 December 1534 that has become the subject of celebration. For a full week around this date, the people of Quito indulge in partying, with street parades, bullfights, street dances, and rides around Quito in open top buses called 'Chivas', equipped with live music and drinks. Quito is one of the highest capitals in the world and, set against the snow-capped backdrop of Pichincha volcano, it provides a fine stage for a street party.