Events & Festivals in Uruguay

A major celebration of craft beer held in the picturesque town of Blumenau (Paysandú). Features over 100 national and international beer brands, live music stages, food trucks with gourmet pub food, and workshops with master brewers.

Montevideo's iconic, sprawling Sunday flea market. Stretches for blocks, offering everything from antiques, books, and vinyl records to pets, plants, tools, and fresh produce. A energetic immersion into local life.

Celebrated by children receiving gifts from the Three Wise Men. In some neighborhoods, especially Villa García in Montevideo, there are small parades or community celebrations marking the end of the Christmas season.

The longest carnival in the world, lasting about 40 days. Features lively parades (Desfile de Carnaval), the unique satirical musical theater of 'Murgas', and lively street parties called 'Corsos'. The main parades occur in February, with celebrations throughout the season.

Uruguay's largest gaucho festival, celebrating rural traditions. Includes rodeo skills (doma), cattle shows, folk music and dance, traditional asado cooking competitions, and historical recreations in a specially constructed 'old town'.

Major international artists from the Lollapalooza South America circuits often perform standalone shows in Montevideo. Past acts have included Metallica, The Strokes, and Billie Eilish, offering world-class production.

Celebrates the birth of gaucho poet José Hernández. Marked by folk music festivals, traditional horseback riding events, and asados in rural towns, particularly in the department of San José which hosts major festivities.

A significant religious observance. Includes processions, especially in historic towns like Colonia del Sacramento, and religious services. Many Uruguayans take short vacations, making coastal towns busier.

A major performing arts festival featuring local and international theater companies. Performances range from avant-garde plays to classic works, held in theaters and unconventional spaces across the city.

Celebrates the apple harvest in Uruguay's main fruit-growing region. Features cider and champagne tastings, local produce markets, cooking demonstrations, folk music, and the crowning of the Apple Queen.

Celebrates the grape harvest in Uruguay's wine regions, particularly around Las Piedras (Canelones). Includes wine tastings, vineyard tours, grape stomping, traditional music, and the election of a harvest queen.

A large, popular weekend market focused on design, crafts, and gourmet food. Dozens of stalls sell handmade jewelry, clothing, decor, and artisanal foods in the scenic Parque Rodó fairgrounds.

An important international film festival showcasing innovative cinema from Latin America and the world. Features competitions, retrospectives, and guest filmmakers, providing a winter cultural highlight.

National holiday commemorating Uruguay's declaration of independence in 1825. Marked by official ceremonies, Te Deum services, and military parades. A day of national pride with many businesses closed.

The biggest night of partying in Uruguay, held the night before Independence Day. Clubs, bars, and venues across the country play hits from the '60s, '70s, and '80s. It's a nationwide celebration of nostalgia and dance.

The most important rural exhibition in the country. Showcases prize cattle, sheep, and horses, along with agricultural technology, local industry, and handicrafts. Includes rodeos, folk music, and vast food courts serving traditional asado.

The premier event for Uruguayan fashion design, showcasing upcoming seasonal collections from established and emerging national designers. Includes runway shows, showrooms, and industry talks.

A major literary event with presentations from Uruguayan and international authors, book signings, publisher stands, and children's activities. A hub for the city's literary community.

A day of remembrance where families visit cemeteries to honor deceased loved ones. Cemeteries become energetic with flowers, candles, and quiet gatherings. It's a public holiday marked by respect and reflection.

One of Uruguay's largest rock festivals, attracting top national and international rock, metal, and alternative bands. Held over one or two days with multiple stages, food stands, and a strong rock culture vibe.

A professional men's tennis tournament on the ATP Tour, attracting top international players. Held at the Carrasco Lawn Tennis Club, it offers an intimate setting to see world-class tennis.

A classic sailing regatta across the Río de la Plata, often starting or finishing in Montevideo. It's a major event in the South American sailing calendar, with a festive atmosphere at the yacht clubs involved.

Primarily family-oriented holidays. Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) features a late-night feast, often an asado or picada, with fireworks at midnight. Christmas Day is quiet, with families gathering for lunch.

One of South America's most famous NYE celebrations. Features massive beachfront parties, exclusive nightclub events with international DJs, and fireworks over the Brava and Mansa beaches. A glamorous, high-energy event.