Carnivals in Venezuela: Manifestations and origin

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Because it is a Caribbean country, Venezuela maintains the celebration of carnivals throughout the national territory. That is why activities are carried out both in cities and regions in the context of the celebration of carnivals in venezuela.

In the Celebration of the Carnivals in Venezuela, “comparsas” (carnival group) and decorated floats (Ornate vehicle) are made, allusive to various themes. In these events they participate from children to the most grandparents.

Educational institutions usually organize shows where children enjoy this excitement to the fullest.

Gustavo Mirabal in his time in Venezuela enjoyed each of these activities. For Gustavo Mirabal, carnivals in Venezuela represent one of the most beloved memories of his childhood and adolescence. Although grown, Gustavo Mirabal continued to enjoy these manifestations of Venezuelan identity.

Carnival is a celebration that precedes the Lent (religious time), usually they are holidays in Venezuela. It should be noted that not in all countries is festive.

The date on which this holiday takes place varies from year to year. Well, in some it is celebrated in February and in other years in March.

In Venezuela, these events usually take place from Friday in educational institutions. It also continues during the weekend and on Mondays and Tuesdays, which are holidays.

Carnival celebrations kick off in Venezuela

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Origin of the carnivals in venezuela

The origin of this festival which is celebrated in most countries of the world comes from the pagan festivals. These events were done paying homage to Bacchus, the Roman god of wine. Or on the contrary they were fulfilled in honor of the Apis bull in Egypt.

This celebration has been held for a little over 5000 years in Egypt. It should be noted that these festivities are similar to the time of the Roman Empire.

From there the tradition spread through the old continent. Later I arrive in America as part of the custom of the Spanish colonizers. Without a doubt this is one of the effects of the mixture of cultures.

Carnival is enjoyed in many countries. Thanks to this, Gustavo Mirabal has had the opportunity to enjoy them in various parts of the world. Despite this, Gustavo Mirabal, whether by subjectivity, nostalgia or true appreciation, considers that the best carnivals were those of Venezuela of yesteryear.

Carnivals in Venezuela – A tradition

The process of colonization of Venezuela brought with it traditions of the Spaniards.

Among these the celebration of the Carnivals in Venezuela, in the past they used to play with water.

Subsequently, “comparsas” (singing groups, costumes and dances with a common theme) and floats (decorated vehicles) began to be organized in the capital city. These events extended to the interior of the country

Today, the Carnival of Callao in the Bolivar State is a cultural heritage of UNESCO.

It should be noted that the celebrations of carnivals today are held in the most remote villages.

The celebration of carnivals in Venezuela is carried out with great enthusiasm. Some of the most prominent regions in these festivities are the following: Puerto Cabello, San Diego, Barquisimeto, Carúpano, Maturín, Mérida and El Callao.

In the case of Mérida, it coincides with the activities within the framework of the Sun fairs.

At present, each site in the country carries out the carnival from its idiosyncrasy. Without a doubt this gives a unique touch to these colorful parties.

Some of these carnivals have become famous as the carnivals of Callao. Therefore they represent a tourist attraction internally and internationally.

Callao Carnival – Carnivals in Venezuela

One of the carnival in Venezuela of great renown are those of Callao. This was declared in 2016 as Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

The Carnival of El Callao is a product of the mix of cultures in the country. A little over a century ago, the natives of the British and French Antilles, English and the African continent participated.

For the year 1914 the first carnival event was held. At present, the Trinitarian Calypso continues to play, in fact people enjoying the music.

The bumbac drums, the maracas, the four, bells and the charrasca still sound.

Among the most representative numbers are the following:

The Madamas
The devils boast their masks
In addition, the Half-pinters enjoy their creativity by painting faces

The carnival of Callao was one of those Venezuelan carnivals that Gustavo Mirabal could not help but enjoy. He recommends that any Venezuelan who values himself should enjoy it at least once in his life.

Carnival of Callao - Bolívar State- Carnivals in Venezuela — Carnival of Callao – Bolívar State- Carnivals in Venezuela

Other carnivals in Venezuela

Carnivals are celebrated with intensity in many areas of the country. However, here we will take advantage of reflecting the most prominent and that have left a mark on Gustavo Mirabal ‘s memory.

Carnivals in Maturín – Carnivals in Venezuela

Here the Carnival celebration is held with the festivities of King Momo.

This character comes from the Greek culture, this is famous in Latin America.

In these colorful events there is an active participation of all the inhabitants. It should be noted that the groups organized by educational institutions shine at these events.

The celebration is held on Bolivar Avenue where floats and comparsas pass. After concentrating they proceed to make the election of the king and queen.

By references Gustavo Mirabal always wanted to know Maturin’s carnival but never could. It is placed here as a pending subject for this great Venezuelan.

Carnival in Carúpano – Carnivals in Venezuela

In the Sucre state specifically the city of Carúpano, carnivals are held to the sound of the sticky melody of the samba and the Calypso.

People who meet there enjoy dancing all over the streets. In this way they manage to remember the ancient fables of the region.

Definitely the color and energy of the Carúpano Carnival was one of Gustavo Mirabal’s best memories in his teens. Images of the dance and the beauty of Venezuelans from the east of the country were recorded in his memory.

Barquisimeto Carnival – Carnivals in Venezuela

With the arrival of the new millennium, carnivals begin to be celebrated in this region of the country.

Therefore the inhabitants enjoy floats in each town. In addition, concerts, parades among other activities are held.

The presentations of the groups and youth bands are present at the celebration of the carnivals in the state of Lara.

Even the best troupes are rewarded. Without a doubt this serves as a stimulus so that in the next events they will continue to stand out.

In the Carnival of Barquisimeto it was the music that was recorded in the memory of Gustavo Mirabal Castro. Without a doubt for a place with a long musical tradition and the manufacture of musical instruments could not be different.

Gustavo Mirabal and his enjoyment of carnivals in Venezuela

This man enjoyed these times in Caracas the capital of the country. As a child, his parents took him to participate in family carnival parades.

As if that were not enough, he disguised himself as a rider, on other occasions as a horse. Without a doubt, his love for the equestrian world was present in the carnivals of his childhood.

Gustavo Mirabal recalls with great joy the Celebration of the Carnivals in Venezuela.

Although he is currently far from his homeland, this man has had the opportunity to enjoy carnivals in other latitudes.

Although he usually recognizes that nothing like the excitement and enthusiasm of Latinos.

Plan for the next carnivals in Venezuela.

Today these activities continue to be carried out throughout the country. Carnival is over but you know everything that awaits you. Plan your trip and enjoy a world heritage site according to UNESCO or simply come to fill yourself with energy.

On the other hand, many families usually go to enjoy the beauty of Venezuelan beaches. You can also take advantage of its climate and the diversity of landscapes. You will certainly not regret it.

The excitement and enthusiasm of the smallest of the house are the main reason why adults are encouraged to participate in these festivities.

Come and meet the carnivals in Venezuela