The Scenes of Carnaval

In the last post, we explained Ajijic’s tradition of the Sayacas – the elegantly dressed masked men and boys who appear in several local celebrations including the Carnaval (Mardi Gras) parade.

There are other fun and colorful participants in the annual parade; we thought you’d like to see some pictures of what you can expect in tomorrow’s parade.

When the Carnaval parade arrives at the DIF center on Ocampo near Seis Esquinas, the children from the Kinder are waiting, wearing masks and face paint, excite and anxious to see the sights.

These pictures are a combination of shots from 2003, 2005 and 2007. Enjoy!

Children have as much fun in the Carnaval parade as do the Sayacas. Above left is a giggling small charro. These princesses are students at one of the Kinders in their normal life.

The 2005 parade featured several beautiful floats. In order to get pictures of all the scenes I wanted, I watched the parade near the beginning, again on Ocampo near Seis Esquinas and again on Hidalgo as the merry troupe headed back to the plaza.

This tiny tot is securely tied in the saddle, and enjoying the whole experience. I’ve taken pictures of this man and his horse and cart in several parades. You saw him in the last post with a bride.

Not just the boys are riding on horseback. This little girl heads down Constitución in a colorful costume. Oh my, it’s a whole truckload of Sayacas heading for the parade lineup and start around 11 a.m. on Fat Tuesday – Mardi Gras – That’s tomorrow, February 16.

Go!  The whole parade is a giant “Kodak Moment.”  It’s one of the reasons we love Living at Lake Chapala.