Ambergris Caye Carnaval

By The San Pedro Sun

ABOVE: Anyone can get painted in the Carnaval.

El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro is a unique tradition to this island and one that has been passed down from generation to generation. Although, it seems that with time, some of these wonderful customs are slowly disappearing; many people are still striving to keep our traditions alive. Carnaval is celebrated annually and is observed during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday (Miercoles de Senisa) and the Lenten Season. It is a pagan celebration during which time people can indulge in bodily pleasures that they will have to give up during lent. Carnaval was basically divided into two activities - comparsas (street dancing) and painting.

San Pedro’s Carnaval is similar to the New Orleans Mardi Gras (in meaning, not size). The local government of San Pedro Town usually organizes a week of fun events for visitors and locals called “El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro”. During the event the centre of the town throngs with street dancers known as comparsas. Prizes are handed out to the best - and invariably the male comparsa are the victors. This may be testament to their dance talents, but amusement value is also high on the list, as they are all local dignitaries dressed up in drag. Children from all ages also participate in carnaval. The community leaders annually stress that the season should be celebrated in a respectful and peaceful manner.

ABOVE: Juan Carnaval takes a break in the park.

On the last day of Carnaval painters flood the street to paint each other and this year was no different. Hundreds of children and grown ups flocked the streets to participate in this years events. This tradition involves using a mixture of water paint and water or raw eggs, the goal being to paint as many people as you can. Fair warnings are usually given prior to the carnival saying that if you don’t want to be painted stay in your home.

On the last day of the carnaval the comparsa winners are announced. This year, taking home first prize was Flora’s Posse and second was the infamous “Barbies”. On Wednesday, Don Juan Carnaval was burned.

Hundreds enjoyed Carnaval tradition that keeps our culture alive and unique. Long live the Carnaval in San Pedro and the people who work tirelessly to keep the tradition alive.

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