CARNAVAL: A Staple of Afro-Latino Culture and History

The endless fun, freedom of expression, and amazing music are traits that make Carnivals a staple of Latin culture. It is important to highlight that Afro-latino culture is an important part of two of the biggest carnivals there are in Latin America. The Carnaval de Rio and Carnaval de Barranquilla are multi-day attractions that bring people from all around the globe to participate, both taking place in February. 

Brazil’s Carnival

Brazilian Carnival is one of the most famous and colorful festivals in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. It is a celebration of culture, music, dance, and tradition that takes place in various cities throughout Brazil, with the most famous being the Rio de Janeiro Carnival. It is such a spectacle that people will travel to Brazil just to attend the Rio De Janeiro Carnival. 

The carnival typically takes place over several days, with the main parade taking place in the Sambadrome, a massive purpose-built stadium in Rio de Janeiro. During the parade, samba schools compete against each other with elaborate floats, costumes, and music, showcasing their creativity and skill. The whole time you see everyone regardless of their economic class enjoying the carnival. It’s a wonderful time for expression and acceptance. 

Brazil has a diverse population with a significant number of Latinos of African descent, who have a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in the carnival. Afro-Brazilian traditions such as samba, which originated in Afro-Brazilian communities, are an essential part of the carnival. In addition to samba and costumes, Afro-Latinos also play a crucial role in the music and dance performances during the carnival. The samba schools, which are groups that prepare for the carnival parade, often include Afro-Latinos, and the music and dance performances reflect their cultural heritage.

(image from riocarnival.org)

Colombia’s Carnival

The Carnaval de Barranquilla is a colorful and vibrant festival that takes place in the coastal city of Barranquilla, Colombia. It is one of the most significant cultural events in Colombia and is celebrated four days before Ash Wednesday. During these events you see the streets of Barranquilla packed with more people than usual. Everyone is having fun and making the most of their time.

(Image from Journey Latin America)

The carnival includes several cultural events, including the Battle of the Flowers parade, which features ornate floats and flower decorations, and the Grand Parade, which showcases traditional dances and costumes from different regions of Colombia.The carnival also features the crowning of the Carnival Queen, who represents the beauty and culture of the region. The queen is chosen based on her talent, beauty, and knowledge of the local culture. The music and dance performances during the carnival also reflect the Afro-Latino cultural heritage, with many of the performances featuring traditional Afro-Colombian rhythms such as cumbia, champeta, and mapalé.

Afro-latinos have a major impact and influence on both these carnavals. It would be an understatement to say that these festivals would not be nearly as impactful and fun without their Afro-latino influence. From the uplifting head bobbing music to the beautiful and extravagant costumes worn, Afro-latino culture is visible throughout these carnivals!