The Carnival of Blacks and Whites, celebrated in the city of Pasto, Colombia, is one of the most vibrant and colorful festivities in Latin America. Declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009, this carnival represents a unique fusion of indigenous, African and European traditions. The celebration takes place from January 2 to 7, and each day is marked by activities and events that reflect the rich cultural diversity of the region.
Origins and History
The Carnival of Blacks and Whites has its roots in the pre-Hispanic celebrations of the indigenous peoples of the Andean region. These communities performed rituals in honor of the moon, the sun and mother earth, essential elements in their worldview. With the arrival of the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, these festivities were mixed with Catholic traditions and, later, with elements of African culture brought by slaves.
One of the most accepted theories about the origin of the modern carnival is that it dates back to the year 1607, when a day of freedom was celebrated for African slaves in the southern territory of Colombia. This date became an occasion for slaves, usually repressed, to express themselves freely and celebrate their culture. Over time, this celebration merged with indigenous traditions and Catholic festivities, giving rise to the Carnival of Blacks and Whites as we know it today.
The Black and White Festival
January 2: El Carnavalito
The carnival begins with the "Carnavalito", a children's version of the festivities. On this day, children are the protagonists, participating in parades and artistic presentations. The objective is to instill in new generations love and respect for this cultural tradition. The little ones enjoy recreational activities and parades where they exhibit their costumes, floats and troupes, reflecting the creativity and joy that characterizes the carnival.
January 3: Arrival of the Castañeda Family
On January 3, the arrival of the Castañeda Family is celebrated, a tradition that symbolizes the hospitality and sense of community of the Pastusos. This fictional family, loaded with suitcases and colorful outfits, travels the streets of Pasto in a large caravan. The story goes that this family arrived in Pasto at the beginning of the 20th century and, due to its happy and festive character, was adopted as part of the carnival. Their arrival marks the official start of the festivities, filling the city with music, dance and color.
January 4: Black Day
January 4 is Black Day, a day dedicated to celebrating freedom and equality. During this day, participants paint their faces black using cosmetics, chalk or paint, symbolizing the freedom of African slaves. This tradition reminds attendees of the importance of equality and respect for diversity. The streets are filled with comparsas and parades, where Afro-Colombian music and Caribbean rhythms resonate throughout the city.
January 5: White Day
January 5, known as White Day, is a celebration where participants paint their faces white, symbolizing unity and harmony between different cultures and ethnicities. This day is the most anticipated of the carnival, with parades of spectacularly decorated floats, artistic presentations and the participation of thousands of people. The tradition of painting white has its origins in colonial times, when Spanish settlers also participated in the festivities.
January 6: The Grand Parade
January 6 is the day of the Great Parade, a spectacular display of floats, troupes, musical groups and dancers that travel through the main streets of Pasto. This parade is the highlight of the carnival, showcasing the creativity, talent and cultural diversity of the participants. The floats are true works of art, made by local artisans who spend months preparing their creations. Each float tells a story or represents a specific theme, highlighting cultural, historical or social aspects.
January 7: The Closing of the Carnival
January 7 marks the closing of the carnival with the "Cultura de Pasto", a day of reflection and gratitude for the festivities. On this day, cultural and religious events are held, highlighting the importance of preserving and continuing this tradition. Activities include artistic performances, local art exhibits, and religious ceremonies honoring the city's patron saints.
Featured Elements of the Carnival
Floats and Comparsas
One of the most impressive aspects of the Black and White Carnival are the floats and parades. The floats are gigantic mobile structures decorated with paper mache figures, paint and other materials, which represent various themes such as mythology, history, nature and popular culture. The comparsas, for their part, are groups of people who parade together, dressed in thematic costumes and performing choreography to the rhythm of music.
Music and dance
Music and dance are essential elements of carnival. During the festivities, you can listen to various musical genres, from Andean and Afro-Colombian music to Caribbean and modern rhythms. Traditional music bands and groups animate the parades, while participants and spectators join in spontaneous dances that reflect the joy and energy of the carnival.
Makeup and Costumes
Makeup and costumes are an integral part of the Black and White Carnival. Participants paint their faces and bodies black or white, depending on the day, and dress in colorful, elaborate costumes. These costumes are not only an expression of creativity, but also a means to celebrate the cultural and ethnic diversity of the region. The costumes and makeup range from traditional designs to modern interpretations, each telling a unique story.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Black and White Carnival is not only a celebration, but also a reflection of the history and cultural identity of Pasto and its surroundings. This holiday promotes values of equality, diversity and mutual respect, reminding participants of the importance of peaceful coexistence and harmony between different ethnic and cultural groups. Additionally, the carnival is an opportunity for local artisans, musicians and artists to showcase their talent, contributing to the cultural and economic development of the region.
Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
In 2009, UNESCO declared the Black and White Carnival as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural value and its importance in promoting diversity and intercultural understanding. This distinction has helped increase the visibility of the carnival internationally, attracting visitors from all over the world and promoting cultural tourism in Pasto.
Economic and Tourist Impact
The Black and White Carnival has a significant impact on the local economy, attracting thousands of national and international tourists each year. Hotels, restaurants, shops and other businesses benefit from the influx of visitors, generating income and creating temporary jobs during the carnival season. Additionally, sales of local crafts and products increase, providing an opportunity for artisans and small business owners to display and sell their products.
The carnival has also contributed to positioning Pasto as a cultural tourism destination, highlighting its rich history and unique traditions. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the city, learn about its architectural heritage and enjoy the hospitality of its inhabitants. In addition, the carnival serves as a platform for the promotion of other tourist attractions in the region, such as the La Cocha Lagoon, the Las Lajas Sanctuary and the Galeras and Cumbal volcanoes.
Although the Black and White Carnival is a vibrant and lively celebration, it also faces challenges. Excessive commercialization, overcrowding of the event and the preservation of original traditions are some of the challenges that must be addressed to guarantee the continuity and authenticity of the carnival. Local authorities and communities are working together to implement measures that promote the sustainability of the carnival, protecting its cultural elements and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this celebration.
Over the years, the Black and White Carnival has been able to adapt and innovate, incorporating new elements and technologies without losing its traditional essence. The incorporation of new forms of artistic expression, the use of digital technologies for the promotion and active participation of young people and diverse communities are some of the examples of how carnival continues to evolve. This ability to adapt is crucial to maintaining the relevance and appeal of carnival in an ever-changing world.
The Black and White Carnival is a unique celebration that reflects the cultural richness, creativity and festive spirit of the inhabitants of Pasto and its surroundings. Beyond being a simple party, carnival is an expression of the identity and diversity of a region that has known how to integrate different cultural influences into a harmonious and lively celebration. By preserving and promoting this tradition, we ensure the continuity of an invaluable cultural legacy that will continue to be a source of pride and joy for future generations.