Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, is celebrated in Cusco every year on the 24th of June. It is the most important festival of the Inca empire to celebrate the winter solstice; the beginning of the Sun's New Year. The solstice begins on the 21st of June, but according to a sundial used by the Incas, the sun stays some days in the same place before rising on the 24th of June. This day is acknowledged as the New Year: Inti Raymi!

The population of Cusco traditionally includes everybody in the celebration of this special day. There are events the day before and after the 24th and in the evening, live concerts played in the Plaza the Armas.

The festival takes place at the archaeological fortress of Sacsayhuaman, also called the Sacred House of the Sun. More than 200 thousand people come together to witness the most beautiful presentation of the year where more than 500 actors participate.

The Inti Raymi starts in the square in front of the Qorikancha and the Santo Domingo Monastery. After the initiation, the procession moves to the fortress of Sacsayhuaman. The Inca is carried on a golden throne. Men and women wear gold and silver ornaments, which represent their position in high society.