Carnival Celebrations:
A Journey Through Latin American Culture
Carnival, a colorful festival deeply rooted in Latin American culture, originated in ancient European traditions and blended with African and indigenous influences. Initially, it marked the end of winter to celebrate the coming of spring and the renewal of fertility. Over time, however, the Catholic Church christianized Carnival, and it became a celebration to consume meat, milk, fat, sugar, and drink before Lent for a short time and then abstain from them during the Lenten season. Carnival didn’t just spread across Europe but also arrived in Latin America during colonial times, carried there by the European conquistadors and navigators. Nowadays, Carnival has transcended religious roots and become a festivity of cultural heritage where each country adds a unique flair to the celebrations.

Beyond Rio and Barranquilla: A Tour of Latin American Carnivals
Carnival manifests differently across the diverse countries of Latin America. Rio and Barranquilla Carnivals might be the most recognized celebrations in Latin American cities. However, other cities in Latin America host spectacular celebrations that are worth getting to know. Here are five other Latin American cities that offer unforgettable Carnival experiences:
Considered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2001, Carnival in Oruro is deeply rooted in indigenous traditions and is celebrated annually for ten days. It showcases elaborate folkloric dances like the Diablada and Morenada, accompanied by devils dancing to the rhythm of the haunting melodies of the zampoña (pan flute) used in Bolivian folklore music. It begins with a ceremony dedicated to the Virgin of Socavón, where dancers honor and greet her, blending indigenous and Catholic traditions.
Carnival in Montevideo highlights African and European culture through vibrant processions, drumming, and traditional dances. Despite being one of the smallest countries in Latin America, the carnivals of the capital are one of the longest in the world, contemplating 40 days of different festivities, which involve a series of cultural events such as parades and theatrical performances. Some typical celebrations are murgas, street performance groups singing humorous songs criticizing current events, and the Parade of the Calls, a parade showcasing the rich heritage of the Uruguayan Afro-descendant community.
Rio is not the only city with exciting Carnival celebrations; Salvador is also famous within Brazil for celebrating Carnival. Carnival in Salvador is celebrated this year from February 08th to February 13th. It offers electrifying street parties like the blocos, where revelers dance to the pulsating beats of axe, a piece of Afro-Brazilian music. This Carnival also explodes with the trios elétricos (electric trios) – giant sound trucks that parade through the streets, drawing thousands of revelers in their wake.
Carnival in Haiti, like in many other Catholic countries, is celebrated each year in February or March. The date varies, but it always falls immediately before Ash Wednesday. Carnival in Haiti, known as Mardi Gras, is a spirited celebration blending African and French influences. Traditional music, elaborate costumes, and lively processions fill the streets, reflecting the resilience and energetic spirit of the Haitian people.
Celebrated all weekends during February, Buenos Aires hosts a unique Carnival with a strong emphasis on artistic expression. Every Saturday and Sunday, some parades called corsos take place. These parades include costumes, drumming, and choreographed dances for the Carnival celebrations. Through the different avenues and streets of the city, the display of corsos and murgas troupes, which are groups of musicians with accompanying choreography, showcases Argentinian creativity through music, dance, and theatrical performances, creating a lively and visually stunning spectacle.


Latin American Carnivals are much more than just extravagant costumes and energetic parades. They are expressions of cultural heritage and identity, artistic creativity, and community spirit. Beyond the iconic celebrations in Rio de Janeiro and Barranquilla and the unique festivities in cities like Salvador, Oruro, Montevideo, Port-au-Prince, and Buenos Aires, the parades and parties provide a deeper understanding of the cultural richness that defines this joyous season and the region’s rich cultural tapestry. So, let the spirit of the Carnival celebration unite us all as we immerse ourselves in the colors, rhythms, and traditions of Latin America!