The Carnaval de Negros y Blancos, celebrated from January 2 to January 7, 2025, brings together over one million visitors and thousands of participants, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Colombia's Nariño region. Declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, this festivity is not only pivotal for the community but also invites locals and tourists to engage deeply with the vibrancy of Andean and Hispanic traditions.
This year, Pasto will be ablaze with artistic displays and myriad cultural performances with more than 8,500 artists from 63 groups participating. The Mayor's office of Pasto anticipates large crowds for festivities full of music, dance, and colorful parades along the city's streets.
UNESCO describes the importance of this celebration, stating, "El Carnaval de Blancos y Negros es un periodo de convivencia intensa, en el que los hogares se convierten en talleres colectivos para la presentación y transmisión de las artes carnavalescas y en el que personas de todas clases se encuentran para expresar sus visiones de la vida." This quote encapsulates the spirit of togetherness and artistic expression inherent to the carnaval.
The first day, January 2, centers around children with the 'carnavalito,' featuring colorful parades and various performances. Events begin early with offerings to the Virgin of Mercedes at 7:00 AM, followed by energetic experiences like the Rock Carnaval concert and the Salsa Day celebration, bringing joy and excitement to families.
On January 3, the day dedicates itself to the 'Canto a la Tierra' parade, showcasing the importance of Andean culture and connection to the earth through engaging performances. The atmosphere continues to buzz with concerts highlighting folk music, bringing together diverse expressions of local heritage.
January 4 honors the arrival of the traditional 'Castañeda family' through reenactments capturing the essence of local memory, important rural tales, and characters beloved by Pasto's residents. Concerts and dance gatherings enliven the city, reinforcing the significance of memory and nostalgia.
The intensity of the carnival reaches its peak on January 5 with the Day of Negritos, which promotes social equality through the practice of painting faces—a symbolic act to celebrate diversity and community engagement. Events draw participation from all social classes, embodying the spirit of unity.
On January 6, the 'Día de Blancos' features the grand parade, showcasing ornate floats and vibrant costumes, reinforcing the inseparable link between heritage and festivity. The day culminates with more music and community bonding, creating lasting memories among attendees.
Finally, January 7 concludes the carnival with celebrations steeped in the sacred and the mythical, as communities celebrate with rituals and festivals, including the Festival of Cuy, cherished for its cultural significance.
Reflecting on the carnaval's impact, one organizer stated, "Durante estos días, Pasto suspende su cotidianidad para dar paso a la senda del carnaval por donde desfilan monumentales carrozas, colectivos coreográficos con trajes coloridos, murgas musicales, danzantes andinos y muchas otras expresiones artísticas que encienden el alma festiva de la ciudad." This statement not only highlights the temporary escape from everyday life the carnival provides but also the rich artistic display it promises.
The Carnaval de Negros y Blancos is not just about celebration; it’s about cultural revitalization, embracing heritage, and fostering community spirit, echoed through its diverse activities and participation. With free access to all events, the carnaval remains accessible to everyone, making it one of the most significant cultural events in Colombia.