1. Semana Santa (various countries) Semana Santa, or “Holy Week,” is the most important Catholic festival in South America. Beginning in late March and ending early April, the week-long event contains a unique mix of religious, pagan, Catholic and even commercial celebrations. Celebrations can be found throughout South America, including extravagant street processions during Good Friday in Quito, Ecuador; colourful flower painted murals in the streets of Ouro Preto, Brazil; … Continue Reading