The day Lima stops in it's tracks...

...is today. 

It's actually a national holiday recognizing the Catholic day of Immaculate Conception. Today, Catholics acknowledge Mary as being born without sin. All the stores are closed. University classes are cancelled. There are parades in the streets of Lima. 

But that's not why the city comes to a halt. 

It's because today everyone will watch the most important soccer game in Peru, the U vs. Alianza. These two club teams generate the most polarizing rivalry in the country and play a few times each year in what is called "El Clasico" or the Classic match. 

There will be lots of beer, lots of chicharrones and no work today. Everyone is staying at home to watch the game this afternoon. 

As for me, I might have to pick my team today.