Mexico Celebrates Carnaval

Mexico Celebrates Carnaval

Looking for a unique Carnaval celebration close to home with an authentic feel? Search no further than the southern neighbor, México. Starting February 15 to 21st, Carnaval is hosting an array of parades, parties, concerts, culinary festivals, cultural programs and beauty pageants. Mexican coastal cities offer mardi gras celebrations comparable to New Orleans and Rio de Janeiro.

Celebrated the week prior to Ash Wednesday, and normally lasting a little less than a week, Carnaval in México has a long tradition dating back to the nineteenth century. Coming from the Latin word Carnavale meaning “goodbye to the flesh”, Carnaval refers to the week before Lent (Cuaresma), where carefree abandonment and indulgence are encouraged.

The tradition of Carnaval actually pre-dates Christianity itself, having roots in ancient Greek rituals honoring Dionysus, god of wine and revelry. The Romans, who were always ready for a good party, continued the tradition in their Saturnalia rituals and orgies, celebrations later combined with pagan rituals of other conquered people.

As the European and Mexican cultures combined, Carnaval became another occasion for indigenous people to maintain a bit of their ancient tradition while accepting the new Christian beliefs. And, as the years passed, Carnaval in Mexico became more and more energetic and imaginative.

Today, specific proceedings vary from place to place with the coastal cities of Veracruz, Mazatlan and Acapulco staging brilliant fiestas highlighted by gaudy parades and processions. Colorful floats for prizes as clowns, mimes and masked impersonators poke fun at local dignitaries. Lavish balls are often held during the week, and a Carnaval king and queen are crowned.

Other important carnaval destinations in Mexico include Ensenada, Baja California; Guaymas, along the Sea of Cortez in Sonora; Tepic, Nayarit; and Carnival in Chamula, Chiapas, said to be one of the most indigenous festivals in the country.