Oruro Carnival – Bolivia’s Most Colorful Festival
Every year, the city of Oruro, Bolivia, comes alive with one of the most vibrant festivals in South America – the Oruro Carnival. This lively celebration is a mixture of Indigenous and Catholic traditions, featuring bright costumes, dazzling performances, and lively parades. From the diablada dance to the colorful costumes, the Oruro Carnival is a must-see event for anyone looking to experience the culture and traditions of Bolivia.
What is the Oruro Carnival?
The Oruro Carnival is a traditional festival celebrated in the Bolivian city of Oruro, located in the southern part of the country. The carnival is a mix of ancient Indigenous and Catholic traditions, honoring the Virgin of the Socavon (the patron saint of the miners). It is the biggest and most important festival in Bolivia, and it is celebrated every year during the last week of February or the first week of March.
The carnival is a lively celebration, with a multitude of activities such as parades, dances, music, and art. It is known for its colorful costumes and performances, which feature traditional dances like the diablada, morenada, caporales, and tinku. During the festivities, the city is filled with people from all over the country who come to celebrate and take part in the festivities.
History of the Oruro Carnival
The Oruro Carnival has a long and rich history that dates back to pre-Columbian times. The festival was originally celebrated by the Uru and Aymara people as a way to honor the gods of the mountains and the sun. After the Spanish conquest, the Catholic Church incorporated the festival into its own religious calendar and it became a celebration of the Virgin of the Socavon.
Since then, the Oruro Carnival has become a symbol of Bolivian culture and identity. It has been declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and it is now one of the most important festivals in South America.
What to Expect at the Oruro Carnival
The Oruro Carnival is a vibrant and lively celebration that takes place over several days. There are many activities and events that take place during the festival, including parades, dances, music, and art.
The main event is the grand parade, which takes place on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday. This parade features brightly colored costumes, live music, and traditional dances such as the diablada, morenada, caporales, and tinku.
Other activities during the carnival include traditional music performances, art exhibitions, and the burning of a large effigy known as ‘Ekeko’. There are also many street parties and other festivities that take place throughout the week.
How to Attend the Oruro Carnival
The best way to experience the Oruro Carnival is to visit the city during the festival. The festivities usually take place over a period of four days, beginning on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday.
The city of Oruro is easily accessible from La Paz and other major cities in Bolivia. There are also direct flights from Santiago, Chile, and other international destinations. Once in the city, visitors can find a variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
The Oruro Carnival is a must-see event for anyone looking to experience the culture and traditions of Bolivia. From the colorful costumes to the lively performances, this vibrant festival is sure to be an unforgettable experience.