Carnival is a traditional celebration in Valladolid, where locals and visitors alike dress in a colorful way to spread joy around town. Every year, just before Easter, people from all walks of life join “Comparsas” and organize dancing groups to participate in the festivities.
Besides the dancing and music shows, there are plenty of Mexican snacks, beers, and other things during Carnival!
The yearly program varies, but there are usually plenty of events for everyone in the family during Carnival.
Here's a list of the 2019 Carnival events, just to give you an example of what you can enjoy.
A Children’s night, with a grand parade that started at 5 Calles (corner of 48 and 41) and ended at Parque de Candelaria.
There was an event called 'Paseo Noche de Corso', which departed from the former Railway Station and ended at the Santos Vaia nightclub. There, the dance competition took place, and people could see the performances of the different dancing groups.
Over the weekend, on Saturday, the comparsas offered a free show in the city parks: San Juan, Santa Lucía, Flamboyanes, Candelaria, and Flor Campestre. At night, family events took place in the center of the city.
In addition to celebrating in the most traditional neighborhoods, the party also performed in the parks around the city: Colonos, X-Corazón, Sisal, R. Bonilla, and San Francisco.
On Sunday, in the central park, the scenario for the crowning of the Queen of the Carnival was followed by plenty of music.
On Monday, March 4th, the troupes performed in Santa Ana, and then was a 'regional night', an exciting event including traditional music and dance, which concluded with a ranchería in downtown Valladolid.
On Tuesday, the 5th, comparsas were presented in the center of the city, and a clown was presented.
The Carnival ended on Wednesday, March 6th, with the burning of Juan Carnaval in the Historical Center.
If you visit Valladolid during the Carnival, make sure to join at least one of the events. It's an exciting experience to learn more about the traditions of Mexico and the Yucatan! Happy Carnival!
