Negros y Blancos carnival in Pasto - Alejandro Londoño

This carnival takes place in Pasto (Nariño) Located in the pacific zone.

In January between the 4th-6th day every year, during 3 days, the carnival attracts a huge number of tourists from

all the country and the world.

This holiday is an unforgettable cultural experience, which shows Indian rituals, cultural expressions of the Spanish and African cultures.

Carnival has some elements suchas cosmetic talc, music and floats with giant sculptures built by craftsmen who have an important role in these event.

The Blancos y negros Carnival is divided in five parts

Pre Carnival

Begins in December 28th like the day of the water. On this day people of all ages go to the streets to "get wet". People in cars with cans full of water or walking around in this special day where the only purpose is to wet other people.

The Pre carnival follows until December 30 with the famous Pasto’s serenade during which you can hear the best trios of the region.

Carnavalito

It is an activity with thousands of children of the region between 6 and 14 years, showing their creativity and cultural heritage of the region.

The Familia Castañeda Parade

It's a big parade in the streets on 4 January, It's a parade with many groups of people wearing costumes of the last century. This is the first day that people start painting their bodies and start a big party in the streets.

The Black Day

It takes place on 5 January. On this day people are painted with black cosmetic until all clothing, faces, arms and all parts of the body are painted. Around The city there parties with orchestras and there are no differences of race and classes.

The White day

On 6 January, the rules change and people throw white powder. The celebration begins with a parade of floats with huge figures made by craftsmen. It is really fascinating .