New Delhi: Colombia, a country in South America, has a rich culture and heritage. Throughout the year, different places in the country witnesses a wide variety of fairs and festivals. One of the most popular festivals in Colombia is the Black and White Carnival, which marks the beginning of the new year. It is held in Juan de Pasto in south-western Colombia and is celebrated for six days.
Black and White Carnival: One of the most popular festivals in Colombia
The Black and White Carnival is one of the most symbolic festivals in Colombia which reflect the region’s cultural traditions. In 2009, UNESCO declared it a Cultural Heritage of Humanity and each year, thousands of tourists go to Colombia to witness the carnival. The carnival is held in Pasto between January 2 and January 7 and a Pre-Carnival is held on December 28 and December 30. The carnival is thronged by thousands of tourists from outside Colombia and also by the locals.
How did Black and White Carnival begin?
The origin of the Black and White Carnival can be traced to the festivals of the indigenous groups of this region who displayed their thanks for successful harvests. Over the years, the celebrations took elements of African and Spanish festivals and fairs since they came in close contact with these culture. It is Colombia’s only carnival which has purely indigenous roots and blended the many cultural influences after the country became independent. Nowadays, the carnival has a wide variety of elements like music, paintings, gastronomy, and floats with huge sculptures.
How is the Black and White Carnival celebrated?
On December 28, the celebrations of the Black and White Carnival start with the Carnival of Water in which water is thrown in homes and streets. The Old Year’s parade takes place on New Year’s Eve where marchers carry satirical figures which represent celebrities and current events. The last day of the carnival is known as ‘Day of Guinea Pig’ which showcases the traditional dishes of the region.
The last two days are the main days of the Black and White Carnival. Out of the two, on the first day, people of all ethnicities wear black cosmetics and on the next day, they apply white talcum to symbolize equality and integrate all citizens. Intense communion takes place during the Black and White Carnival as private homes turn into workshops showcasing the rich culture of the county. The festival is also important for promoting tolerance and respect.
The Black and White Carnival of Pasto, Colombia, a UNESCO World Heritage event, is a vibrant six-day celebration blending indigenous, African, and Spanish traditions. From the Carnival of Water to the Day of Guinea Pig, it is a unique blend of cultural expressions. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
