Carnaval 2018

 Apparently, the Carnaval celebrations in Cozumel are the biggest in all of Mexico.  I don't know how true that is.  But it certainly is a big event!

Carnaval is an official 5 day celebration before the Catholic lent begins. On the first 4 days of Carnaval, there are costumed performances in the streets and the selection of a King and Queen. Actually, the selection of several Kings and Queens - the main adult ones, junior ones, and even special needs ones.  It's very inclusive.  There are also 3 parades,  on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.  With floats and marching bands, and people on the floats throwing candy and beaded necklaces into the crowds. On Monday, they take a little break.

The big event happens on Fat Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras, like the one in New Orleans!  People line the street hours before the parade.  Some in costumes. Many with tables and chairs for comfortable viewing.  There seems to be a sofa as part of that furniture every year!

This year, I officially discovered that my favourite part of Carnaval is not the Mardi Gras parade.  But the few hours before that parade.  I really enjoyed watching the preparations.  Both the participants and the viewers.  It's fun to see how real these people are, and how fun the anticipation is. 

Pictures
1- Santiago, the son of a teacher at the school.  He's so proud of his little dog.  The legs move and he barks.  Way cute!!
2- A little boy getting ready to be on a float.  He definitely was posing for the camera.  Lion style!
3 - I love the fact that grown men are having so much fun.  This one was reluctant to let me take his picture without the head on.  At first.  He said it ruins the illusion for kids.  I told him I like the humanity of seeing that the characters are real people.  He seemed to like that point of view. 
3-4-6 - People in the audience in their costumes.  So much energy!
5 - Men in drag getting ready for a float. Notice the "riding bull" on top of the shopping cart!
7 - Vendors sell these eggs.  They're real egg shells, emptied of the yolk and white, and filled with confetti.  Kids break them on their heads.  Who thought of that??