Most people have heard of the annual Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, but did you also know that Colombia has a massive bash ? Matador writer Ian MacKenzie is on the scene to capture the action in photographs.
Jose paints a papier-mache animal mask in preparation for the Carnaval.
Each mask is created with an arcilla (clay) mould, and glued together with paste from the cassava plant.
Master craftsmen hand make hundreds of masks for the dancers.
A cumbia dancer adorns her dress for practice before the Carnaval.
The big day arrives: young Colombians crowd the main parade route, hoping for a glance of the performers.
Dancers in formation.
Playing the trumpet.
The Queen of the Carnaval waves to the raving crowd.
Skull-face flashes the thumbs up.
A gremlin poses for the camera.
Silver warriors intimidate and thrill with their war cries.
Congo men in their colourful costumes, hats piled with fruit.
Policemen abducted and still missing are honoured in the festival.
Masked dancers swing to the pulsating beat.
Black-faced boys twitch eratically and wave pointed spears.
Young and old all participate in the Carnaval.
Cumbia musicians play traditional music.
“Dirt man” combed the crowd, grossing out everyone by eating mud.
The coordinated dancers were the highlight of the festival.
Community Connection
Check out our other Carnaval Highlights from around South America, such as Oruro, Bolivia.
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8 Comments... join the discussion!
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Actually these photos are from Colombia! But glad you liked them.
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Breathtaking photos! Love 'em!
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You should do one of this with Panamanian carnavales… Those are really good!
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Hi I am about to cover this festival for my website on this page
http://www.festivalpig.com/South-American-Festivals.html
Would it be ok to feature some of your photos on my article ?
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Great Article Ian, I was born and grew up in Barranquilla, I love your perception on the whole experience…..
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thts hot
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Hey Ian –
I just came across these posts now, but I wish I had known you’d be in Barranquilla for Carnaval too! Would’ve been great to meet up.
Your photos are waaaay better than mine – they really capture the colors and atmosphere well. I was too busy being told to hide my camera from potential thieves, and ensuring it didn’t get doused in shaving foam.
Here’s my experience from Day 1 –
http://www.gobackpacking.com/Blog/2009/03/10/carnaval-in-colombia/
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