The carnival of blacks and whites

By Christian Matusan

Certainly the statistics show that the carnival of blacks and whites is one of most crowded in Colombia. There attending more than six hundred thousand people for many countries. By the way, this festival has been an important cultural celebration for Colombians because it’s away to represent equality among different race. Traditionally, people have dressed up in colourful costumes and danced in the streets; everyone feels happy.

In addition the carnival is located in the San Juan de Pasto city, on first week of January. Consequently, some fascinating activities that you can find in this festival are: first, “the carnavalito”, second: the black day and finally, the white day. It’s very funny. Some people would rather rent an apartment than go to a hotel during the party.

I was there two years ago and it’was great, I was dancing and drinking for three days. You will be able to dance and be excited for a week!

The carnavalito has been, for forty years, the most important day for children in the great carnival of blacks and whites. On the 3^rd of January in San Juan de Pasto, the children and adolescents are the protagonist. In consequence they make their own parade and they dance above their amazing floats made by themselves. This is an excellent way to introduce children to the arts and crafts activities. They will be the future of the cultural traditions of Nariño.

Moreover, the black day has been celebrated on January five of each year. On this extraordinary day the people face are painted black and wear the same color. This activity represent equality between the different race in Colombia. On this day people dance a bunch types of folk music. On the other hand, there are traditional food like “the cuy”, the cuy is crunchy, salty and terrific.

Finally, the day of the whites has been made on 6 January each year since 1950. The rules of the game change and now people are painted white. In addition the party begins with parade of floats with enormous figures made by artisans, becoming a fascinating and lively cultural show.

All in all, this carnival is fascinating place to visit. Certainly, you and your family will have a great experience in this festival because you can take a tour, go sightseeing in the city and take pictures of amazing floats.

You had better make the reserves because normally the hotels are full I’m January in Pasto.

You will love it !!!