The Barranquilla Carnival is one of Colombia’s most important cultural celebrations, and is also one of the biggest carnivals in the world. During the celebrations — which this year take place between Feb. 14 to Feb. 17 — parades are held to showcase the vibrant traditional dances for which the event is known.
Five traditional dances of the Barranquilla Carnival
These dances, many of which have African or Spanish origins, have been passed down from generation to generation. Today, they continue to serve as a fundamental expression of the cultural identity of the Colombian Caribbean. Below, we highlight some of the most iconic dances of the Barranquilla Carnival.
Son de Negro
The Son de Negro is one of the most iconic and vibrant dances of the Barranquilla Carnival. It dates back to the African traditions brought to the Americas by slaves, and it has remained a powerful cultural expression of resistance.
Costume: Dancers paint their bodies and faces black to represent the African slaves. They wear colorful and eye-catching costumes adorned with feathers, sequins, and other sparkling elements, adding a festive and visually striking touch.
Choreography: The movements are fast and energetic, and include jumps, spins, and acrobatic steps. The dance also has a theatrical and comedic aspect, with dancers making exaggerated gestures and movements.
Music: The dance is accompanied by drums, guacharacas, and other percussion instruments, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere that sets the rhythm for the movements.
Mapale
The Mapale is another gem of the Barranquilla Carnival, known for its energy, sensuality, and vibrant rhythms. This dance has deep African roots and clearly reflects the influence of Afro-Caribbean culture.
Costume: Dancers wear form-fitting costumes, usually in bright colors, which highlight the quick and vigorous movements of the dance. Women often wear short skirts and tight blouses, while men opt for shorts and sleeveless shirts (or no shirts at all).
Choreography: Mapale is characterized by rapid, energetic, and sensual movements. Dancers perform jumps, spins, and pronounced hip movements. The dance stands out for its intensity and the dramatic interaction between the dancers, who often approach each other and then separate again in dramatic movements.
Music: The music that accompanies this dance is equally vibrant, played primarily with drums, maracas, and other percussion instruments, all of which serve to enhance the energy of the choreography.
Congo
The Congo dance has strong African influences, mixed with European elements. It originated as a representation of the African slaves brought to Colombia. It is a dance full of festive spirit, reflecting African resistance and traditions.
Costume: Dancers wear colorful costumes, frequently decorated with feathers and sequins. The masks, typically representing animals such as bulls or tigers, add a theatrical and symbolic element to the dance.
Choreography: The movements are energetic and expressive. Dancers imitate the movements of the animals they represent, creating a blend of drama, humor, and celebration.
Music: The music of the Congo is joyful and festive. The drums, maracas, and other percussion instruments are played to mark the rhythm and intensity of the dance.
Garabato
The Garabato dance is a symbolic representation of the struggle between life and death. With Spanish influences, this dance is known for its theatricality and colorful costumes, and it has roots in religious celebrations and popular festivities from the colonial era.
Costume: Dancers wear colorful and elaborate costumes. Men typically wear white shirts, black pants, and red cloaks, while women dress in wide, colorful skirts. Both men and women complete their outfits with hats adorned with flowers and ribbons.
Choreography: The movements are elegant and symbolic, with coordinated steps and dramatic jumps. The garabato (a decorated staff) is used to represent the fight against death, and the dramatic gestures symbolize life’s victory over death.
Music: The music for this dance is festive and lively and is played on instruments such as drums, flutes, and maracas. The joyful rhythms accompany the choreography, marking the beat of the dancers’ movements.
Cumbiamba
The Cumbiamba is one of the most traditional and beloved dances of the Barranquilla Carnival. Derived from Cumbia, this dance combines African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences and is considered one of the most important cultural expressions of the Caribbean region.
Costume: Dancers wear traditional outfits that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. Women wear long, colorful skirts, white blouses with lace, and flowers in their hair. Men wear white pants, long-sleeve shirts, and vueltiao hats.
Choreography: The movements of the Cumbiamba are graceful and elegant, and include gentle steps, spins, and delicate gestures. Men often hold a candle in one hand, while women move their skirts with grace and elegance.
Music: The music of the Cumbiamba is a blend of African and Indigenous rhythms. It is performed with traditional instruments such as drums, gaitas, and maracas. These rhythms create a festive atmosphere that invites dancing and celebration.