Carnival
Carnival festivities are one of the many manifestations
of syncretism involved in Ecuadorian traditions and celebrations.
The word "carnival" comes from the Italian word
"carn-aval" which means absence of meat. According
to the Catholic calendar, the festivities precede the period
of Lent. The origin of the Carnival festivity is to compensate
for the following forty days of abstention and penitence
in preparation for the remembrance of Christ’s crucifixion.
This is a time of celebration without restraint all over
the world, and Ecuador is not an exception. Many popular
festivals are held throughout the country. It is a time
of masks, jokes, water, music and dances.
Even
though Carnival has a "religious" origin, it is
a time for pagan celebrations.
Carnival is also classified among the festivities of the
spring equinox, which is closely related to the indigenous
cosmology before Catholicism in America.
All around the country, "diablillos" (little devils)
play with water. It is a somewhat crazy game, like snow
fights, which is long awaited, especially by children and
teenagers, and feared by some adults. Throwing water balloons,
sometimes even eggs and flour both to friends and strangers
passing by the street can be a lot of fun but can also be
annoying. Although the government as well as school authorities
have forbidden this game, it is still widely practiced throughout
the country. Historians tell of a Bishop back in 1867 that
threatened with the punishment of ex-communion for the sin
of playing Carnival games. In the old times, in many parts
of the country people started to prepare "cascarones"
with a month of anticipation. These are hollow balls of
candle wax to fill with water for Carnival. Water balloons
are the modern "cascarones".
Carnival is celebrated throughout the country in different
ways. Many popular festivities are held, where the locals
wear disguises with colorful masks, and dance to the rhythm
of lively music. In Ambato (province of Tungurahua) and
Guaranda (province of Bolivar), colorful, folkloric parades
take place. They are definitely worth visiting.
Carnival is a holiday throughout the country. Many people
from the main cities go to the beach or other tourist sites
around the country.Don’t be surprised if a water balloon
hits you.
Don’t feel offended; it’s just a game. Ecuador
is a country full of surprises!!
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