Carnaval!

I went to the first Carnaval parade last night, what an event!

The parade runs up one side of the main street, turns around and comes back on the other side.  The total distance is 2-3 km.  Most people would consider that a good walk.  But these folks are doing it in high heels, shaking their booty all along, on stilts, etc.  Wow! that's a lot of stamina! Admittedly, they looked a little pooped at the end of the parade route....

The floats and costumes were really cool, lots of sparkels.  The people on many of the floats,all dressed up according to their theme, threw candies, beaded necklaces, and other trinkets to the crowds.  Some threw out confetti, others blew bubbles. There were also a couple of drumming groups, very cool sound.  Very New Orleans like.

Before, during, and after the parade, people hung out in the streets, drank, ate, and made merry.  Many were dressed up themselves with wigs, and sparkly costumes.

Apparently, there will be another parade tonight, then a break on Monday night, then the BIG one on Tuesday night.  Lorraine, I hope you'll be ready for the mayhem!

Photos:
1) the lion from Madagascar. Remember the half finished sculptures i showed you before?
2) Another Carnaval float, lots of little kids on them
3) Street meat during Carnaval, it was yummy!
4) the martians from Sesame street! it`s my cell phone ring tone!