We are a few days away from Colombia’s biggest celebration of the year: The Barranquilla carnival. This dazzling extravaganza is a whirlwind of colors, rhythms, and traditions, and it stands as one of Latin America’s most important.
The origins of the Barranquilla Carnival date back to the late 19th century, heavily influenced by European masquerade balls. In 1881, a group of local leaders decided to organize an event that would combine European carnival traditions with the rich Caribbean, Afro and indigenous cultures.
The Four Days of Carnival
The Carnival of Barranquilla officially begins on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday and lasts for four days, culminating in a grand finale on “Fat Tuesday.” Each day is marked by its own unique events and traditions:
Batalla de Flores (Battle of Flowers) – Saturday 14 : This is the opening parade, where vibrant floats adorned with flowers and costumed performers flood the streets. It’s a visual feast that pays tribute to the region’s tropical flora.
La Gran Parada (The Great Parade) – Sunday 15 : This is the most significant event, featuring an eclectic mix of dance troupes, traditional folklore groups, and musical performances. The parade showcases Cumbia, Mapalé, and other traditional dances from the region.
Festival de Orquestas (Orchestra Festival) – Monday 16 : Music lovers rejoice during this night of live performances by renowned Colombian bands and orchestras. The atmosphere is electric, with people dancing the night away.
Entierro de Joselito Carnaval (Burial of Joselito Carnaval) Tuesday 17 : The carnival ends with a symbolic funeral procession for Joselito Carnaval, the fictional character who represents the spirit of the festival. This event marks the end of the revelry and the beginning of Lent.
Costumes, music and dance
One of the most captivating aspects of the Barranquilla Carnival is its vibrant and intricate costumes. Participants spend months designing and creating outfits that often reflect their cultural heritage or pay homage to Colombian history. These costumes are a testament to the creativity and dedication of the carnival’s participants.
The Carnival of Barranquilla is deeply rooted in cultural significance. It serves as a melting pot of Colombia’s diverse cultures, uniting people from different backgrounds through music, dance, and celebration. It’s a time when Colombians proudly showcase their heritage, from the colorful dress of the indigenous communities to the African rhythms that infuse the music.
At the heart of the carnival beats the rhythm of Cumbia, Mapale, and other traditional Colombian music genre as well as champeta, salsa and reggaeton. The streets come alive with the sounds of drums, flutes, and maracas. Locals and visitors alike join in the dance, moving to the infectious beats that have been part of this celebration for generations.