Creativity and talent took center stage at the recently concluded Ceuta Costume Contest, held on March 8, 2025, at the Teatro Auditorio del Revellín. Despite the rain forcing organizers to suspend the traditional cabalgata, the event was eagerly anticipated and attended by participants and spectators alike. The contest was marked by outstanding costumes and captivating performances as participants showcased their creativity across various categories.
Among the winners of the adult category, individual accolades were taken home by entries like "Los Especiales," "Reina de las Nieves y Copito," and "Gato con Botas." For couples, the winning duo was "El Dios del Vino y Hestia," who impressed the judges with their imaginative interpretation. Group categories featured triumphant ensembles such as the celebrated "Por todos los dioses," "Una pavada real," and "Los dioses del mar." Accésits, or special mentions, went to entries like "Dale duro que paga el seguro," "Los Reyes del Rebote," and "Ceuta en el corazón del Mediterráneo" for their standout costumes and energetic performances.
Meanwhile, the bateas category was equally competitive. The winners included beloved local institutions such as "Guardería Wendy, Andrés Manjón and Colegio San Daniel" and "Los Desbocaos, Abyla and Centro del Mayor." Notably, the special prize was awarded to the group "Los Popi," reflecting the spirit of camaraderie and tradition within the event.
Children's participants also delivered impressive performances, capturing the audience's imagination. Among individual winners, entries like "Carrusel," "Payaso," and "Río" were particularly celebrated. The couples highlighted charming names like "Boda Felipe y Leticia" and "Fantasía Reino de la Máscara," leading to spirited accolades. The group's performances featured acts such as "Los Doraditos" and "Macedonia," showcasing diversity and innovation. Accésits were also awarded to notable groups such as "Circo," "Emociones," and "Seres Mágicos."
Owing to adverse weather conditions, the City Council had to make the difficult choice to suspend the cabalgata and relocate the costume contests. Still, the resounding enthusiasm for the event was palpable. The organizational team worked tirelessly to guarantee participants enjoyed the spotlight they had long awaited. The winners, alongside family and friends, will receive their trophies on March 14, 2025, at 19:00 hours, at the iconic Salón del Trono within the Palacio de la Asamblea. This ceremony promises to serve as the exciting finale to a contest deeply rooted in local culture.
Over 200 miles south, the 2025 Carnival contest held in Montevideo reached its peak with the traditional night of fallos on March 10, 2025. Enthusiasts gathered to learn the outcomes of the awards night as it marked the conclusion of the month-long celebration considered one of the world's longest Carnivals. The event featured live broadcasts describing winners across multiple categories, engaging viewers all night.
The Murgas category was fiercely contested, and the standout group this season was Doña Bastarda, achieving 2,721 points, which secured them their first title. They surpassed runner-up, "Asaltantes con Patente" by just 61 points. Their performance included bold social critiques combined with mesmerizing choreography. It is notable as the group was initially formed only seven years ago, back in 2018.
Another highlight of the night was the Parodistas category, where Momosapiens emerged triumphant after more than ten years of waiting, finishing with 1,132 points. Their director, Horacio Rubino, creatively delivered humorous takes on various political and media personalities, which showcased their unique approach to parody. Meanwhile, the Adam's group returned to the stage after years away and received impressive feedback with their score of 1,060, showcasing their adaptiveness to new comedic trends.
For the Sociedad de Negros y Lubolos category, La Sara del Cordón won with 1,095 points, holding off Valores who finished close behind at 1,088 points. Their families founded the group over 15 years ago, creating an event steeped in tradition, history, and lively musical performance.
The Humoristas section experienced upheaval as Los Rolin captured their first title, amassing 1,146 points. They outperformed the long-standing champions, Sociedad Anónima, who managed 1,091 points. Their performance artfully blended everyday life sketches with eccentric characters. The group dedicated their victory to "the people of the interior," which was well-received by the audience.
Lastly, the Revistas category witnessed Tabú securing its place as two-time champions after achieving 1,450 points, finishing just ten points clear of La Compañía. With eight total victories under its belt, Tabú congruently matched the iconic record held by Los Chobys. Their performance emphasized dramatic dance, acrobatics, and meaningful social commentary, proving highly entertaining. Following the event, the director, Fabián Altman, confirmed their determination to return for the 2026 celebrations.
The roots of the Uruguayan Carnival trace back to colonial times, culminating from the amalgamation of European festivals—brought mainly by Spanish and Portuguese settlers—and African traditions. The first documentations of street celebrations began as early as 1750, setting up what would become the competitive nature of modern festivities. The first official Carnival contest was established by the Intendencia (local government) back in 1905, allowing for group competitiveness within murgas, parodistas, and revisters.
Following its evolution, the Carnival retains the essence of its original spirit; it is vibrant and diverse. Annual, over 1,000 artists participate, showcasing their skills across various stages. The candombe, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, remains pivotal to the celebration, reminding Uruguayan people of their rich history and cultural connections.