The Barranquilla Carnival, one of Colombia’s most emblematic festivities and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage designee, is an explosion of joy, music, and tradition. Among the carnival’s many cultural expressions, costumes – and the characters they represent – have come to play a fundamental role.
The top six costumes of the Barranquilla Carnival, Colombia
Costumes are more than just symbols of joy and celebration – each one has its own history that makes it essential to the Barranquilla Carnival. Here are some of the most iconic Carnival costumes and characters.
La Marimonda
La Marimonda is one of the most emblematic characters of the Barranquilla Carnival. It is said to have emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century, when people from lower classes used old clothing, worn the wrong way, to mock and ridicule wealthier social classes.
The costume consists of baggy pants, a colorful shirt with large lapels, and a wide tie. However, its most distinctive feature is a mask, featuring a long nose, large ears, and round eyes. Its comical and extravagant appearance is meant to provoke laughter and highlight its burlesque nature.
El Monocuco
The Monocuco costume dates back to colonial times, when enslaved people used masks and capes to disguise themselves and participate in festivities without being recognized by their masters.
The costume consists of a long, brightly colored tunic or cape and a large conical hat adorned with ribbons. The mask typically worn as part of this costume completely covers the face, giving the wearer an air of mystery and anonymity.
Negrita Puloy
The character of Negrita Puloy was inspired by a Venezuelan detergent brand called Puloil. It was originally named based on the English phrase “pull oil,” which evolved over time into “Puloy.” This costume is characterized by a short red dress with white polka dots, a matching headscarf, and white gloves. Additionally, women who wear this costume often use curly black wigs and striking makeup. The character of Negrita Puloy is known for her vibrant energy and has become one of the most representative of the carnival.
El Garabato
The Garabato costume represents the battle between life and death, evoking ancient Spanish dances that were transferred to the Americas during the colonial era.
The costume consists of black pants and a brightly colored jacket with golden embellishments. It also includes a red cape and a wide-brimmed hat adorned with feathers. Its main accessory is the “garabato,” a hook-shaped staff used to confront the figure of death in the dance.
El Congo
This costume originates from African dances brought to America by enslaved people. It has remained a representation of Afro-descendant folklore and cultural resistance.
The costume comprises a multicolored fringed shirt and pants, a cape with golden decorations, and a belt with small bells. It also includes a colorful mask often featuring a long, striking tongue.
Joselito Carnaval
The character and associated costume of Joselito Carnaval symbolizes the joy of the celebration and the exhaustion that follows four days of festivity. This character “dies” every year on Ash Wednesday, symbolizing the end of the carnival, only to be “resurrected” the following year when the festivities begin again.
While there is no specific costume for Joselito Carnaval, he is usually represented wearing elegant black clothing. The character is carried on a stretcher by a group of joyful and mourning widows, symbolizing the farewell to the Carnival until the next year.